No fault divorce is a situation in which neither spouse is required to prove fault or wrongdoing by the other party to end the marriage.
While no-fault divorce is an option for people in all states, some states in particular allow fault divorces in which one spouse can file for divorce on the grounds that the other’s actions caused the marital breakdown.
In states that allow fault divorces, individuals can point to acts of adultery, cruelty, or other actions that support their decision to divorce. In Washington state, spouses can simply claim that their marriage is broken without needing to provide evidence of specific wrongdoing.
Let us take a closer look at no fault divorce and how a Seattle divorce lawyer can help you file for one.
Understanding No Fault Divorce
If you are having challenges in your marriage, you may be wondering about what no fault divorce is, exactly. You will want to speak to a family lawyer to learn more. At a basic level, a no fault divorce is a type of divorce where neither spouse is required to prove fault or wrongdoing by the other spouse to end the marriage.
No fault divorces contrast fault-based divorce cases, which require one spouse to prove that the other was responsible for the marriage’s breakdown. Unlike that, a no fault divorce allows a couple to separate based on less specific reasons.
In fact, couples can simply state that they have irreconcilable differences or have experienced an “irreparable breakdown of the marriage.”
Important Characteristics of a No Fault Divorce
For married individuals who are wondering what a no fault divorce is, it can be helpful to learn about the key characteristics of these types of divorces. Attributes that define no fault divorces are as follows:
- No need to prove wrongdoing or misconduct
- Quicker process, as there is no lengthy evidence-gathering stage to prove wrongdoing
- Less conflict
- Based on irreconcilable differences
- Available in most states
Even though no fault divorce is a faster option that involves less conflict, it does not mean that it is easy. No fault divorces can still involve contentious disagreements over property division, child custody, and support payments.
If you are considering filing for no fault divorce, you will want to hire a skilled lawyer to help you protect your assets and your children.
Steps Involved in a No Fault Divorce
If you are still wondering what no fault divorce is, familiarizing yourself with the steps involved in this type of divorce can be useful. An experienced divorce attorney will guide you through the following steps when filing for a no fault divorce:
- File a petition for divorce in court.
- The other spouse is served with the divorce paperwork.
- The other spouse formally responds.
- You negotiate the division of assets, child custody arrangement, spousal support, and child support.
- The court makes decisions at trial on issues not decided upon by the parties in the negotiation and/or mediation process.
- The divorce is finalized.
There are several challenging steps that go into a no fault divorce. To get the best outcome possible, you will want to join forces with a lawyer who has experience handling cases like yours.
How a Divorce Lawyer Helps You
A knowledgeable attorney can advise you further on what a no fault divorce is and answer any questions you have about the process. No matter how complicated your separation may be, you can count on a trusted lawyer to see your case through from start to finish and fight for an outcome that protects the best interests of you and your children.
Here is how a divorce attorney can help you during this difficult time:
- Explain what a no fault divorce is
- Ensure all important documents are filed properly and on time, preventing mistakes that could prolong the process
- Negotiate the terms of your divorce, advocating on your behalf during mediation and in court
- Provide sound legal advice throughout the process, helping you evaluate your options and the consequences of each decision
- Protect your rights and push for a fair outcome
An Attorney Can Explain What No Fault Divorce Is
Now that you know more about what no fault divorce is, it is time to hire an attorney to get the assistance you need to protect your best interests and pursue a fair outcome. A lawyer can offer deeper insight into the process and will work tirelessly to get the best outcome possible for you and your loved ones.
Contact Dellino Family Law to schedule a consultation and learn more about how an attorney can help. Our firm has over 180 years of combined experience handling family law matters, including no fault divorce cases.
You can count on our attorneys to guide you through the divorce process with diligence, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence.
