The difference between fault and no-fault divorces starts with the legal basis for the divorce, but can also affect the outcome. We explain it all here.
Divorce is not an easy thing for any couple to go through, no matter the circumstances. There are many different grounds for which someone can file for divorce. It is important to understand the distinction between the two types of divorce before filing.
This article will cover:
In a no-fault divorce, the filing spouse does not need to provide specific reasons (or evidence) to explain the basis for the divorce. A no-fault divorce involves:
The other spouse cannot object to a no-fault divorce -- a judge would view an objection as an example of the irreconcilable differences and breakdown of the marriage.
No-fault divorce is allowed in every state, though some states require the married couple to live apart for a certain amount of time before filing for a no-fault divorce. The amount of time the spouses must live apart varies between states, often ranging between six months to a year.
Fault divorces were the only type of divorce available until 1969. Since then, there has been a huge movement toward greater access to no-fault divorces, and fault divorces are no longer available in all states.
Fault divorces can be filed when the filing spouse requests the divorce for a specific, legal basis. The specific legal grounds for fault divorces may vary between states where fault divorces are an option, but they often include:
One of the primary differences between fault and no-fault divorces is that the married couple is not required to live separately for a certain period of time in a fault divorce.
Often the court considers who is at fault when dividing up property and assets. The bad behavior is factored into this division.
Fault divorces also impact decisions about spousal maintenance (or alimony). Generally, the spouse who is at fault may have to pay more in spousal maintenance.
Some defenses can prevent a fault divorce.
While these defenses are an option, they are rarely pursued because of the time and cost involved in proving them in court. These defenses also fail often, and courts eventually grant the divorce anyway because courts are reluctant to force people to stay married if they don't want to be.
Whether filing for a fault or no-fault divorce, it is important to know your state's residency requirements. Almost all states require at least one spouse to have been living within the state for an extended period (usually six months to a year) to file for divorce in that state.
Washington, South Dakota, and Alaska do not have this requirement. In these states, the only requirement is that one spouse has to be living in the state when they file for divorce.
The court that orders the decree will hear all other matters related to the divorce, so it is usually easiest to file for divorce in the state where you currently reside. Divorces are honored by all states, no matter where the decision was made.
There is no specific requirement for a no-fault divorce. No-fault divorces, no matter the state, are granted in situations where there is no hope of salvaging the relationship.
Given the differences between fault and no fault divorce, your personal circumstances will dictate which is the better option for you.
Fault divorce generally takes longer and costs more than no fault divorce, but there could be benefits if you are able to prove fault.
No fault divorce won’t impact distribution of assets or alimony payments in the same way, meanwhile, but is generally less complicated without the requirements to prove fault.
The grounds for fault divorces vary between the states where fault divorce is an option. However, most of the grounds are similar and fall under those listed above (e.g., adultery, abandonment, etc.).
A spouse cannot object to a no-fault divorce petition. The court can view that objection as simply another "irreconcilable difference" in the marriage.
In a fault divorce, the non-filing spouse can submit a defense by claiming condonation, connivance, provocation, or collusion. If they successfully prove their defense, the court will not grant the divorce.
When both spouses are at fault, the court will call upon comparative rectitude to decide who is less at fault. When comparing the relative fault of each spouse, the spouse who is less at fault is awarded the fault divorce by the court.
A divorce granted in any state is recognized in every state. However, due to issues of personal jurisdiction, a court may not be able to enforce original rulings relating to the division of property, alimony, or--if a child is involved--child custody and child support.
If you are contemplating divorce, you should be aware of what options are available to you so that you can evaluate the best way to proceed.
No-fault divorces are available in all states and do not require any specific grounds for the divorce. The divorce is often granted on the basis of "irreconcilable differences," and the non-filing spouse cannot object to the petition.
Fault divorces occur when the filing spouse has a specific legal basis for the divorce, which they must prove in court. Fault divorces are not available in all states, and they do not require a separation period (which no-fault divorces often do require).
All else equal, fault divorces are comparatively longer and more expensive than no-fault divorces. The non-filing spouse may also defend themselves in order to prevent the fault divorce from being granted. However, many choose not to spend time or resources pursuing a defense.
Facing divorce can be a stressful and challenging experience, but you don't have to go it alone. If you're looking for a divorce attorney, evident can help. Create a free account today and we'll help you find the right divorce lawyer for your needs.
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