What is Dissolution of Marriage?
A dissolution of marriage in Ohio is considered a “no-fault” proceeding to legally end a marriage. Each spouse files a joint petition with the court, requesting that a judge review and approve the agreement which they have entered into. The agreement provides details of how all terms of the marriage are resolved, such as:
- Property division
- Debt allocation
- Child custody
- Child support
- Alimony
It is imperative to understand that both parties must agree on all issues in order to proceed with dissolution; therefore, neither spouse can contest the decision to divorce. This type of separation typically avoids conflict and is significantly quicker and less expensive compared to divorce, but it is not for everyone. For example, if you and/or your spouse have a high net worth, have significant assets such as a business to consider, or have children and have not agreed on a custody and visitation plan, a regular divorce is necessary.
What is Annulment?
Unlike dissolution, which necessarily recognizes a marriage as valid, annulment is a way to terminate a marriage that is not recognized by law. In other words, annulment makes it so that the marriage never existed in the eyes of the law because it was invalid to begin with.
The following are grounds for annulment in Ohio:
- One or both parties are underage
- Marriage consent was obtained through fraud or force
- One spouse is still married to another person
- The marriage was never consummated
- The parties are relatives
Since an annulment means that a marriage wasn’t valid in the first place, both parties do not have to undergo procedures to determine property division or alimony.
Consult a Columbus Family Law Attorney Today
If you are interested in seeking an annulment or dissolution in Ohio, contact our Columbus divorce lawyer at Grossman Law Offices today. During your initial case review, we can review your case and help you determine which method of ending your marriage will work for your unique situation. We have over 40 years of experience handling all types of cases, including military divorce, high net worth divorce, dissolution, annulment, and all related family law matters.
Call our office at (614) 344-4311 to get started.
