Divorce is typically the result of an extended breakdown of a marital relationship. For those preparing for divorce, laying blame on the other spouse is relatively common. People may blame their spouses for financial or personal misconduct that damaged the relationship and led to the divorce. The most common approach to divorce is for the person filing to pursue a no-fault divorce case.
No-fault filings are common in all states, and they are currently the only option available in Michigan. What are some of the potential benefits of a no-fault divorce?
1. Reduced preparation demands
In a fault-based divorce, people not only need to present financial evidence and documentation regarding parenting dynamics, but they also need to have proof of misconduct severe enough to warrant a divorce filing. It is much easier to prepare for a no-fault divorce where the focus is on addressing practical details of the divorce rather than who is to blame.
2. Less conflict
When one spouse faces a formal accusation of causing the end of a marriage, they may want to defend themselves. Conflict levels can be high in any divorce, but fault-based divorces can feel like a personal attack. The chances of a highly contentious divorce increase in scenarios where one spouse attempts to place the blame for the marital breakdown on the other.
3. A faster divorce
The more time that couples spend in court, the more they pay to end the marriage. When one spouse initiates a no-fault divorce, the elimination of fault-related proceedings can streamline the divorce process. Couples may be able to divorce more quickly and may therefore pay less for the divorce overall.
Understanding why so many people pursue no-fault divorces can help people make rational decisions when the time comes to take legal action to end a marriage. The support of an attorney is important for those preparing for a no-fault divorce, given all that is at stake.