We'll help you to move through the challenge of a divorce.

Both a divorce and a dissolution will result in a termination of your marriage, but there are many differences between the two proceedings. In a dissolution, the parties work out all of their differences regarding division of property, parenting and support prior to filing any documents with the court. The agreement is set forth in a document called a separation and property settlement agreement, which is filed with the court along with a Petition for Dissolution. A dissolution is often the fastest and most cost-effective way to terminate a marriage.

A divorce is generally a more adversarial proceeding. In a divorce, one spouse files a complaint for divorce against the other party, seeking a termination of the marriage and asking the court to resolve the issues regarding division of property, parenting and support. A divorce is generally a more lengthy and expensive process than a dissolution, and requires more court involvement. However, a divorce offers protections not available through a dissolution, including temporary restraining orders and temporary child and spousal support orders.

Our family law attorneys will discuss both divorce and dissolution with you, and will help you decide which proceeding is appropriate in your particular case.

Q: What is the difference between a divorce and a dissolution?

A: Both a divorce and a dissolution will result in a termination of your marriage, but there are many differences between the two proceedings. In a dissolution, the parties work out all of their differences regarding division of property, parenting and support prior to filing any documents with the court. The agreement is set forth in a document called a separation and property settlement agreement, which is filed with the court along with a Petition for Dissolution. A dissolution is often the fastest and most cost-effective way to terminate a marriage.

A divorce is generally a more adversarial proceeding. In a divorce, one spouse files a complaint for divorce against the other party, seeking a termination of the marriage and asking the court to resolve the issues regarding division of properly, parenting and support. A divorce is generally a more lengthy and expensive process than a dissolution, and requires more court involvement. However, a divorce offers protections not available through a dissolution, including temporary restraining orders, and temporary child and spousal support orders. Our family law attorneys will discuss both divorce and dissolution with you, and will help you decide which proceeding is appropriate in your particular case.

Q: What factors does the court consider in determining spousal support?

A: The court will consider a number of factors, including the age of the parties, their respective incomes, the duration of the marriage, the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage, the relative earning abilities of the parties, and any other facts the court determines to be relevant.

Q: How is property divided in a divorce in Ohio?

A: Ohio is an "equitable division" state. When the parties are unable to reach a settlement, the court will divide the marital property in a manner it considers to be fair - but this does not always result in an equal division. The court considers a number of factors when making a division of properly, including the duration of the marriage, the assets and liabilities of the parties, the desirability of keeping an asset intact, and any other factors the court deems relevant and equitable.