Pursuing a Dissolution of Marriage

The cornerstone of a successful dissolution in Ohio is mutual agreement. Unlike a traditional divorce, both spouses must be on the same page regarding all aspects of ending the marriage. This includes dividing assets and debts fairly, determining child custody arrangements (if children are involved), and deciding on spousal support (if applicable). Reaching a mutual agreement minimizes conflict and streamlines the court process. However, if reaching an agreement proves difficult, considering mediation can help facilitate communication and a smoother path towards dissolution.

In Ohio, dissolution of marriage can be pursued based on “no-fault” grounds. This means you don’t need to prove marital misconduct like infidelity or cruelty.  Instead, you and your spouse simply need to agree that the marriage is irretrievably broken. This simplifies the process and reduces potential conflict, allowing you both to focus on a smoother and more amicable separation.

A key element of pursuing a dissolution in Ohio is the separation agreement. This document formally outlines the terms of your marital separation, covering crucial aspects like child custody (if applicable), division of marital assets and debts, and spousal support (if agreed upon). Having a clear and comprehensive separation agreement helps avoid future disagreements and streamlines the dissolution process for the court. Having a trusted attorney assist in drafting a separation agreement ensures that your rights and interests are protected.

In Ohio dissolutions, both spouses are required to make full and honest financial disclosures. This ensures transparency and fairness throughout the process.  Financial disclosures typically involve detailed information about income, assets (including property, investments, and retirement accounts), and debts.  Having a clear picture of each spouse’s financial situation allows the court to make informed decisions regarding the division of marital assets and debts, as well as potential spousal support (if applicable).