Any separation, dissolution, or divorce is hard. But working with a lawyer can significantly reduce stress and improve your chances of the best possible outcome. Even with the simplest divorce available in Ohio – dissolution and uncontested divorce – having an attorney benefits you in the long run.
The Akron divorce lawyers at Erb Legal have helped countless clients get dissolutions and uncontested divorces. They know how to lead you through an effective and efficient legal process. Call 330-249-1778 or use our online form to schedule a consultation.
Tom Erb Jr. is the family lawyer you want in your corner.
View Firm AwardsA dissolution is available when both parties mutually agree to dissolve the marriage. Neither party must prove fault to obtain a dissolution.
Dissolutions typically involve a petition that both parties in the marriage jointly file. The spouses may sign a separation agreement determining the division of property and debt, alimony (spousal support), child custody, child support, and other issues.
The Summit County Domestic Relations Court reviews the terms of the separation agreement. It verifies that it is acceptable to both parties. Then, the court will grant the dissolution and issue a court order that incorporates the separation agreement.
To get a dissolution in Ohio, you must meet the following requirements:
Although dissolution is often faster than divorce because there is less conflict, legal documents must be drafted and submitted to the court.
Common Summit County Dissolution Forms include the following:
Additional forms will be required if children are involved in your dissolution.
Dissolution can be one of the least expensive forms of separation. You must pay a filing fee of $370 for dissolution without children and $400 if children are involved. But keep in mind, things can drag on because parties are unwilling to compromise. You also will not see a Judge until at least 30 days after you sign all the paperwork, which cannot be signed until you agree on EVERYTHING!
You might have legal fees, which will depend on whether parties can agree. But generally, the fees are less for dissolution because there are fewer issues to negotiate. Some dissolution attorneys charge by the hour or offer a flat rate.
It’s best to make sure your attorney has plenty of experience with divorces and dissolutions. Hiring a less expensive lawyer usually means a less experienced attorney, which could cost you more in the long run.
A divorce is a civil lawsuit where one party files a complaint against the other and requests that the court issue an order for relief. In a divorce, that relief is a legal release from the marriage and related responsibilities. A contested divorce typically involves the court ruling on property division, debt allocation, and other issues.
In an uncontested divorce, both agree on asset and debt allocation, child custody, spousal support, and other significant issues. This mutual agreement results in a less combative and cheaper divorce for both parties.
The requirements for an uncontested divorce in Ohio are virtually identical to those for dissolution. There is one exception: you must wait 45 days between filing your complaint and when the divorce is finalized. Since all uncontested divorce forms are signed and filed before the final hearing, only one party must attend. Additionally, you must bring a witness to the final hearing.
The required forms for an uncontested divorce are similar to those you would file for dissolution. They will detail your request to the court as well as your income, expenses, and property.
Common Summit County Divorce Forms include the following:
If your divorce involves children, you will have several additional forms to submit as well.
An uncontested divorce can cost less based on a variety of factors than a contested one involving mediation and negotiation of many issues in conflict.
You will have to pay a Summit County Filing Fee. If your uncontested divorce does not involve children, the fee is $370. With children, an uncontested divorce costs $420. These fees change periodically.
You will also have to pay legal fees, assessed hourly. You should select an uncontested divorce lawyer who frequently works with parties in these types of separations.
While dissolutions and uncontested divorces are more straightforward and can be lower cost than a typical divorce, you should have an attorney on your side who will protect your rights. You will need to make a separation agreement that determines asset and debt division, alimony, and child support.
Contact Erb Legal for help with any divorce or separation matter. Our family lawyers in Akron have the experience to negotiate an outcome that benefits you.
Call 330-249-1778 or use our online contact form for a consultation.