There are multiple options available for those who want to end a marriage in Ohio. This can leave people feeling confused and overwhelmed by their choices. However, people can make appropriate decisions given their circumstances when they understand the three different legal solutions for ending an unhealthy or unsatisfying marriage.
The Ohio family courts can allow people to pursue traditional divorces. They also offer dissolution and legal separation. Understanding what separates divorce from both dissolution and legal separation can help people choose the best solutions given their circumstances.
Legal separation isn’t divorce
Many people think that legal separation is the best option available at the end of a marriage. However, legal separation isn’t actually a divorce.
People who legally separate are still technically married. However, they sever certain critical legal obligations to one another, which can protect them from financial responsibilities and child-rearing complications. Spouses have to separate their property and debts and agree on terms for living separately. Legal separation can be a viable option for those who want to work on their marriages or who belong to religions with rules against divorce.
Dissolution is helpful when spouses agree on important issues
Dissolution is effectively an uncontested divorce filing. Couples should have worked through any lingering issues before they submit paperwork to the family courts.
The dissolution process requires agreements approved by both spouses regarding the distribution of their marital assets and debts as well as any parenting responsibilities and financial support matters. The spouses must file jointly.
Divorce can help when conflict persists
Couples intending to end a marriage may find it impossible to agree on the details of property division, financial support and parenting responsibilities. A judge may need to help resolve disagreements and determine what is appropriate based on familial circumstances and state law.
Dissolution is the fastest option available if they can settle their disputes with one another, while legal separation can be an option for those who still have hope of repairing their marriages. Discussing marital challenges and divorce options with an Ohio family law professional can help people choose the option that best protects them.