Laws affecting relationships may change as traditions and attitudes evolve. Ending a marriage may be a particularly upsetting event, involving many uncertainties and emotions. If separation or dissolution is unavoidable or in your best interest, a lawyer can guide you in protecting your rights. The pamphlet discusses areas of concern and attempts to answer frequently asked questions. Various procedures may be used to end a marriage that breaks down, including annulment, separation and dissolution.
Annulment is a court-ordered dissolution of an invalid marriage.
A legal separation may be preferred to a dissolution for religious, economic or other reasons. A couple may decide to live apart while attempting to save a faltering relationship, or the separation may be an interim step toward termination of the marriage. Oral or written understandings concerning property disposition, arrangements for children, maintenance or other agreements made while separated may become part of a dissolution proceeding. This court proceeding legally terminates a marriage, and makes provisions for the parenting of minor children, family support and property division. This no-fault system is intended to help spouses settle matters without unnecessary bitterness or resentment.