What Does ‘Dissolution of Marriage’ Actually Mean?

As you go through the divorce process, you will likely hear the term “dissolution of marriage” used more than once. What exactly does this mean?

In many cases, “dissolution of marriage” is just another way of saying divorce, referring to the process in which you and your spouse can permanently end your marriage. However, there are some circumstances in which marriage dissolution is more than just a synonym for divorce. When that’s the case, not only does it result in the termination of marital status, but it also refers to a divorce in which the couple agrees to that dissolution and how all divorce-related issues will be resolved.

A term for simpler divorces

Couples in New York may choose a fault or no-fault divorce. In a no-fault divorce, the spouses end their marriage without assessing blame, simply saying that the marriage is “irretrievably broken” and thus, the marriage will end. This form of divorce is usually easier to obtain than a fault-based divorce and also tend to be less stressful and less likely to involve litigation.

If the couple can agree on all aspects of their divorce without the assistance of the court, they can obtain an uncontested divorce. This can be resolved outside of Court. Not only will it reduce fees, it often cuts down on the animosity associated with litigation. It still helps to have legal advice throughout this process to make sure you can advocate for your best interests.

For more information about “simple” divorces and settling your divorce out of court, meet with a trusted Long Island family law attorney at Jakubowski, Robertson, Maffei, Goldsmith & Tartaglia, LLP.