Dissolution is an alternative means for terminating a marriage but can only be achieved when both parties agree to all the terms for ending the marriage. Drafting the dissolution documents that accurately reflect the parties agreement with respect to property and debt division, alimony, child support, separation agreement and is filed with the petition for dissolution.
While the parties are negotiating, there is no subpoena power available, so the parties must voluntarily trade information. Professionals can, however, be hired to evaluate property, businesses, prepare reports, etc.
When an agreement is reached and filed with the court, a hearing must take place within 30 to 90 days. Both parties must appear and testify that they are satisfied with the agreement; that they have made full disclosure of all assets and liabilities; that they have voluntarily signed the agreement; and that they both want the marriage dissolved. The court must also approve the parties’ agreement.
Because there is no court involvement until an agreement is reached, all the temporary orders and possible hearings that might occur in a divorce case are avoided. The end result of both a divorce and a dissolution of marriage is the same: the marriage is terminated.
It is important to note that each party is entitled to his or her own attorney in a dissolution case and, in no event, can one attorney or firm represent both parties to a dissolution. You can be assured that if you hire the Allen Law Firm to represent you in a dissolution, any information you share with us will be protected by the attorney-client privilege and will not be shared with the other side without your knowledge and consent.
Generally, the dissolution process takes approximately three months.
Although dissolution is less adversarial and is generally quicker and cheaper than a divorce, all the work has to go into the case before it is filed and it is imperative that clients seek the assistance of a competent, qualified family law attorney in preparing their dissolution documents.
For aggressive, effective representation in complex divorce, dissolution, and custody matters, contact the Allen Law Firm NOW.
Serving Southwest Ohio clients in Cincinnati, Mason, Lebanon, West Chester, Montgomery, Hamilton, Middletown, Batavia, Wilmington and surrounding areas.
Warren County • Butler County • Hamilton County • Clermont County • Clinton County
