To understand whether or not a divorce, separation, or annulment is for you will be determined once you understand what each consists of. The divorce process may not be for everyone, which is why the laws in California give you various options when you and your spouse have split. Now you can find out more about each option and why it might be for you.
Understanding Divorce
Divorces are a legal decree that end a marriage before either spouse passes away. The court will typically handle a divorce case and cover various matters such as child custody, division of assets, and alimony. When a divorce is final, the parties will not be bound to one another and can remarry. There are two options for divorce: no-fault and fault-based. In no-fault divorce, a spouse can file for divorce without blaming a spouse for the dissolution, and in fault-based they can blame the spouse based on abandonment, domestic violence, and more.
Understanding Annulments
Annulments occur to those who want to make the marriage null and void. A court will grant them when they find that a marriage is invalid or never existed in the first place. They are somewhat similar to divorce, though, in the way that you are free to move on and remarry after an annulment is final. Annulments will usually be based on grounds of incest, physical or mental incapacity by one or both parties, being below the legal marriage age, being already married, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Understanding Legal Separation
Legal separations, then, are judicially recognized separations between spouses. The difference, however, is the fact that a legal separation does not end the marriage and both parties are prohibited from remarrying.
What Works Best For You?
You may be having a hard time determining whether legal separation, divorce, or annulment is best for your case. In the end, it all comes down to your personal decision. For instance, you may settle on an annulment over divorce because of religious beliefs. Some processes may be more limited than others, which is why it is important to speak to an attorney about your options. Call us today for more information on how we can help you.
