Whether to Divorce
Divorce is a serious and often painful process that should not be taken lightly, especially if children are involved. The following articles are intended to help anyone considering divorce make an informed decision. This section includes information on options open to married couples considering splitting, including divorce as well as other options, such as annulment and legal separation. It also includes information to help you decide whether you should hire a divorce lawyer, basics on what divorce can (and cannot) do for you, including division of property and child custody issues, a glossary of divorce terms, important factors to consider before filing for divorce and how to get started if you decide divorce is the right course of action. For basics on the divorce process, download FindLaw's Guide to Getting a Divorce [pdf].
- What Divorce Can and Cannot Do for You
An overview of what divorce can and cannot do to resolve your family issues. Learn about the realities of divorce, including division of property disagreements, child custody disputes, and emotional issues.
- A Divorce Timeline
A timeline of the divorce process from the filing of the divorce petition to the trial stage. Learn what to expect and when to expect it when you’re facing divorce.
- Annulment Overview
A look at marriage annulment law and process. Learn about the consequences of annulment and legal grounds, including mental illness, fraud, lack of consent, intoxication, inability to consummate the marriage, and more.
- Legal Separation
Many couples separate before divorcing. Others choose a legal separation over a divorce, for financial reasons or otherwise. This section offers information and resources on legal separation, including a sample separation agreement and state legal forms.
- Separation vs. Divorce
Legal separation can give spouses the space they need to work through their personal or financial issues. Learn about the advantages of legal separation and how it differs from divorce.
- Divorce Glossary
In this section, you’ll find a glossary of terms and phrases related to divorce and the divorce process, including legal custody, visitation, interrogatories, mediation, stipulation, equitable distribution, and much more.