Divorce & Legal Separation
Ending a marriage is as much a legal process as a personal one. Understand the difference between fault and no-fault divorce, legal separation, how property and debts are divided, the steps from filing to final decree, and what an uncontested divorce really involves.
All Divorce & Legal Separation guides
- Nevada Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Nevada is a community property state: courts must split marital property roughly 50/50 unless there's a written, compelling reason not to.
- Illinois Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Illinois divides marital property "equitably," not automatically 50/50. Here's how courts decide who gets what in an Illinois divorce.
- North Carolina Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How North Carolina divides marital property in divorce: equitable distribution rules, the 50/50 presumption, pensions, and deadlines.
- Can I Get a Divorce if My Spouse Is in Jail?
Yes. Incarceration does not stop a divorce. How to serve an inmate, what happens if they don't respond, and how to file if you're the one in jail.
- Alimony in Texas: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Texas alimony (called spousal maintenance) is capped and hard to qualify for. See the eligibility test, dollar caps, and how long it can last in Texas.
- South Dakota Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How South Dakota calculates child support using the income shares model, what counts as income, shared-parenting credit, and how to modify an order.
- How to Get a Cheap or Free Divorce With No Money
Yes, you can divorce with little or no money. Use fee waivers, legal aid, self-help forms, and low-cost lawyers. Step-by-step routes for low-income filers.
- Arizona Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Learn how Arizona decides child custody — called legal decision-making and parenting time — plus rules on modification, relocation, and domestic violence.
- Florida Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Learn how Florida divides marital property in divorce, what counts as marital vs. nonmarital, and how equitable distribution works in Florida courts.
- Alimony in California: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
California alimony (spousal support) has no set formula for long-term orders. Learn who qualifies, how long payments last, and when they can be modified.
- Oregon Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Oregon custody law explained: the best-interests factors, the abuse presumption, joint custody rules, relocation notice, and modification standards.
- Montana Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Montana divides divorce property by "equitable apportionment," not 50/50. Here's how Montana courts decide who gets what, and what to do next.
- Iowa Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Iowa calculates child support under the income shares guidelines, what counts as income, and how to modify or enforce an order.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in South Dakota: Process, Proof & Timeline
South Dakota-specific guide to getting a restraining/protection order: process, proof, timeline, and how it interacts with custody, relocation, and child support.
- Ohio Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How Ohio divides marital and separate property in divorce, equitable distribution rules, pensions, and residency requirements.
- How to File for Divorce in Colorado: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Learn how to file for divorce in Colorado: the 91-day residency rule, no-fault grounds, mandatory waiting period, JDF forms, and what to expect in court.
- Nevada Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Nevada child custody law explained: how judges decide legal and physical custody, joint custody rules, relocation, and interstate cases.
- New Mexico Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
New Mexico is a community property state: property acquired during the marriage is split 50/50 at divorce, community debts are shared, and separate property stays with its owner.
- How to File for Divorce in Florida: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Florida requires 6 months' residency to file for divorce. Learn the no-fault grounds, 20-day waiting period, simplified process, and key steps.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Minnesota: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a Minnesota restraining order: Order for Protection vs. Harassment Restraining Order, filing steps, hearing deadlines, and how long it lasts.
- Maine Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Maine calculates child support under the income shares model, who pays, what counts as income, and how to request a change.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Kansas: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a Protection From Abuse order in Kansas: who qualifies, the 21-day hearing rule, and how long orders last.
- How to File for Divorce in Utah: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Utah divorce requires 90 days' county residency and a 30-day wait before the decree — here's how filing, grounds, and mediation work.
- Alabama Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Alabama child custody explained: how courts decide, joint custody rules, relocation requirements, and steps parents can take to protect their rights.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Michigan: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a Michigan restraining order (PPO): where to file, what you must show, how long it lasts, and the respondent's hearing rights.
- Iowa Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Iowa divides divorce property equitably, not automatically 50/50. Learn what counts as marital property, what stays separate, and what to do next.
- Can I Get a Divorce Without My Spouse Knowing or Being Found?
If your spouse is missing or refuses to cooperate, you can usually still divorce through service by publication and a default judgment. Here is how the process works.
- Hawaii Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Hawaii is an equitable-distribution state that starts from an equal split but weighs each spouse's circumstances. Here's how property is actually divided.
- South Carolina Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How South Carolina divides marital property in divorce: equitable apportionment, the 15 factors, and what stays separate.
- Can I Get a Divorce Right After Marriage? Annulment vs. Divorce
Yes, you can divorce days after marrying. Learn how short-marriage divorce, residency rules, waiting periods, and annulment eligibility differ by state.
- Florida Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Florida presumes equal time-sharing is best for children as of 2023. Learn how judges decide custody, parenting plans, relocation rules, and how to modify orders.
- How to File for Divorce in Alabama: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Learn Alabama's residency rules, fault and no-fault grounds, 30-day waiting period, and 60-day remarriage restriction before you file for divorce.
- Michigan Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Michigan courts decide child custody: the 12 best-interest factors, joint custody rules, relocation limits, and changing an order later.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Oregon: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a restraining order in Oregon: the family abuse prevention process, what courts weigh, and how orders are enforced across state lines.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Maine: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a Protection from Abuse order in Maine: who qualifies, the 21-day hearing rule, proof needed, costs, and what the order covers.
- Montana Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Montana calculates child support under its guideline formula, what counts as income, and how the amount can be challenged or enforced.
- How to File for Divorce in South Carolina: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
South Carolina divorce basics: residency rules, the five legal grounds, mandatory waiting periods, and where to file in Family Court.
- Can I Get a Divorce Because of Domestic Violence or Abuse?
Yes. You can divorce an abusive spouse in any U.S. state, even for emotional abuse. How no-fault, cruelty grounds, and protective orders fit together.
- New Jersey Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How New Jersey divides marital property in divorce: equitable distribution rules, what's exempt, military pensions, alimony, and debt.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in South Carolina: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to request a restraining order in South Carolina: where to file, what proof helps, and why your order follows you nationwide once granted.
- Florida Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
Florida uses the income-shares model to calculate child support. Learn how courts set, adjust, and enforce support orders under Fla. Stat. § 61.30.
- Hawaii Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
Hawaii uses the Modified Melson Formula to calculate child support. Learn how the 2024 Guidelines set base support, SOLA, and overnights thresholds.
- Alimony in North Carolina: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
How North Carolina decides alimony eligibility, duration, and termination, plus postseparation support and modification rules under state law.
- How to File for Divorce in Indiana: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Indiana divorce basics: residency rules, no-fault and fault grounds, and the mandatory 60-day waiting period before a final hearing.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Massachusetts: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a Massachusetts abuse prevention (209A) restraining order: where to file, the proof standard, and the emergency-to-final-order timeline.
- Alimony in South Dakota: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
South Dakota alimony has no fixed formula: courts weigh marriage length, earning capacity, and fault to decide who qualifies and how long support lasts.
- Delaware Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Delaware uses equitable distribution to divide marital property in divorce — learn what's marital, what's separate, and how courts decide.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Montana: Process, Proof & Timeline
How restraining orders work in a Montana divorce case, what to do if you need protection from abuse instead, and how orders cross state lines.
- How to File for Divorce in New Hampshire: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
How to file for divorce in New Hampshire: residency rules, no-fault and fault grounds, timing, property division, filing fees, and steps to start.
- Maryland Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Maryland calculates child support: the income shares formula, shared-custody adjustments, and how to apply or modify an order.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Pennsylvania: Process, Proof & Timeline
How Pennsylvania defines abuse, how custody and protection cases interact, and the steps to petition a Pennsylvania court for a protective order.
- Alimony in Missouri: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Missouri calls alimony "maintenance." Learn who qualifies, how courts set the amount, when it ends, and how to request or modify it.
- Kentucky Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Kentucky divides marital property by "just proportions," not a 50/50 split. Learn the legal factors, non-marital property rules, and key deadlines.
- Alimony in Maryland: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Maryland alimony has no fixed formula: learn the 3 alimony types, the 12 factors courts weigh, and when payments end or can be extended.
- Utah Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Utah courts decide child custody: best-interest factors, the joint legal custody presumption, overnight rules, and parenting plans explained.
- Indiana Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How Indiana divides marital property in divorce: the one-pot rule, the 50/50 presumption, retirement accounts, and key deadlines.
- How to File for Divorce in Hawaii: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Learn how Hawaii's no-fault divorce law works, who meets residency rules, where to file by circuit, and what to expect on timeline—no legal jargon.
- Can I Get a Divorce and Keep My House?
Yes, you often can keep the house in a divorce. How your state divides property, buyout and refinance options, and the steps to protect your home.
- Alimony in Nevada: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Nevada alimony has no fixed formula: learn the 11 factors judges weigh, rehabilitative support, when payments end, and how to request a review.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in New Jersey: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a restraining order in New Jersey: the general process, what proof helps, custody overlap, and how orders cross state lines.
- Can a Dad Get Full Custody After Divorce?
Yes, a father can win full custody after divorce. Learn how the best-interests standard works, what judges weigh, and steps to build a strong case.
- North Carolina Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How North Carolina courts decide child custody: the best-interest standard, domestic violence protections, mediation, jurisdiction, and modifying an order.
- Alimony in Hawaii: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
How Hawaii courts decide spousal support: the HRS § 580-47 factors, support categories, modification rules, filing residency, and practical steps.
- New Hampshire Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How New Hampshire courts decide "custody" — parental rights and responsibilities — under RSA 461-A, the best interest standard, and modification rules.
- Alimony in Michigan: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Michigan alimony has no fixed formula — judges weigh case-by-case factors. Learn who qualifies, how long support lasts, and how it's taxed in Michigan.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in California: Process, Proof & Timeline
California DVRO guide: who qualifies, types of orders, filing steps, key deadlines, and how long protection lasts — no lawyer or filing fee required.
- Kentucky Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Kentucky courts decide child custody: the best-interests standard, the joint-custody presumption, de facto custodians, and modifying an order.
- Alimony in Connecticut: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Connecticut alimony explained: who qualifies, how long it lasts, and what factors a judge weighs — for non-lawyers navigating divorce in Connecticut.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Colorado: Process, Proof & Timeline
Learn how Colorado's civil protection order process works — who qualifies, what courts require, filing costs, and how long orders last. No lawyer required.
- Massachusetts Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How Massachusetts divides property in divorce: equitable distribution under G.L. c.208 §34, what counts, and time-sensitive deadlines to know.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Virginia: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to request a restraining/protective order in Virginia: general steps, what proof helps, and why an order holds up even outside Virginia.
- New Hampshire Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How New Hampshire divides property in divorce: the equal-division presumption, what counts as marital property, and key deadlines.
- How to File for Divorce in Massachusetts: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Massachusetts divorce basics: residency rules, no-fault vs. fault grounds, the 90-day nisi period, and where to file in Probate and Family Court.
- How to File for Divorce in North Carolina: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
How to file for absolute divorce in North Carolina: the one-year separation and six-month residency rules, filing fees, forms, and military protections.
- How to File for Divorce in Montana: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Montana divorce rules: the 90-day residency requirement, no-fault grounds, the 21-day waiting period, and what filing triggers automatically.
- Alimony in Alabama: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Alabama courts decide alimony based on a two-track system. Learn who qualifies, how long payments last, and what the 20-year marriage rule means.
- Can I Get a Divorce Without a Lawyer? Your Rights to File Pro Se
Yes, you can usually file for divorce without a lawyer. Learn when DIY (pro se) divorce works, the steps to file, and when to hire an attorney.
- Rhode Island Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Rhode Island divides marital property fairly, not automatically 50/50. See how equitable distribution, separate property, and timing rules work.
- Washington Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Washington calculates child support: the income shares model, allowed income, deductions, minimum support, deviations, and enforcement.
- Alimony in Louisiana: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Louisiana alimony explained: interim vs. final periodic support, who qualifies, the one-third income cap, and when payments end.
- Kansas Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Kansas courts decide child custody: best-interests factors, legal custody, parenting plans, moving with a child, and modifying orders.
- How to File for Divorce in Connecticut: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Learn Connecticut's residency rules, no-fault grounds, the mandatory 90-day wait, and exact steps to file for divorce in Connecticut Superior Court.
- How to File for Divorce in Vermont: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
How Vermont's residency rule, no-fault ground, filing fees, and 90-day decree nisi waiting period work for divorce in Vermont.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Kentucky: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a restraining order in Kentucky: which order fits your case, the EPO-to-hearing timeline, proof needed, and the steps to file.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Delaware: Process, Proof & Timeline
Learn how to get a Protection From Abuse (PFA) order in Delaware — filing steps, emergency timelines, hearing standards, and how long orders last.
- How to File for Divorce in South Dakota: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
South Dakota divorce: no minimum residency, the grounds you can use, why no-fault needs both spouses' consent, and the 60-day waiting period.
- New Mexico Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
New Mexico calculates child support using an income-shares model with two worksheets; here's how the math, add-on costs, and modification rules work.
- How to File for Divorce in Minnesota: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Minnesota divorce basics: the 180-day residency rule, no-fault grounds, and why there's no set waiting period before your case can finish.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Alabama: Process, Proof & Timeline
Learn how Alabama's Protection From Abuse (PFA) order works — who qualifies, how to file for free, the exact timeline, and how long a final order lasts.
- New York Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How New York calculates child support under the CSSA formula, what counts as income, the 2026 income cap, and how to modify or enforce an order.
- Alimony in Montana: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Montana calls it "maintenance," not alimony. Learn the two-part qualifying test, how judges set amount and duration, and when it ends.
- Nevada Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
Guide explaining how Nevada calculates child support using gross-income tiers, plus shared custody, modification, and enforcement rules.
- Alaska Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
Alaska calculates child support under Civil Rule 90.3, using fixed income percentages. Learn how primary and shared custody awards are determined in Alaska.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Idaho: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a restraining order in Idaho: which order fits your situation, what proof you need, filing costs, and the 14-day hearing timeline.
- Alimony in Idaho: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Idaho calls alimony "maintenance": who qualifies under the two-part test, how amount/duration are set, and how to modify it later.
- North Dakota Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
North Dakota calculates child support from a net-income schedule (guidelines effective July 1, 2023); learn the formula, deviations, and enforcement.
- Alimony in Iowa: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Iowa has no alimony formula. Learn how judges decide spousal support under Iowa Code 598.21A, the four types Iowa recognizes, and how long it can last.
- Alaska Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Learn how Alaska divides marital property in a divorce—equitable distribution, separate property rules, debt traps, and steps to protect your share.
- Ohio Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Ohio decides child custody: the best-interest standard, shared parenting rules, relocation notice, modification, and jurisdiction under state and federal law.
- California Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
California uses a statewide formula to set child support. Learn how the guideline calculation works, what counts as income, and how to get free help.
- Utah Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How Utah divides marital property and debt in divorce, from equitable-distribution rules to QDROs, military pensions, and filing timelines.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Connecticut: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a Connecticut restraining order: who qualifies, required forms, the 14-day hearing rule, proof standard, and how long orders last.
- Alimony in North Dakota: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
North Dakota law bars permanent alimony — support is time-limited, tied to marriage length, and based on specific court findings. Here's how it works.
- Alimony in Washington: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Washington calls alimony "spousal maintenance." Here's who can qualify, how courts decide amount and duration, and when payments end.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Alaska: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to file for a protective order in Alaska: who qualifies, the three order types, proof needed, and how hearings work. No filing fee required.
- How to File for Divorce in Maryland: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Maryland divorce basics: residency rules, the three legal grounds, where to file, and how long you may wait for a response.
- Michigan Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Michigan divides divorce property equitably, not automatically 50/50. Learn what counts as marital property in Michigan and the filing rules that apply.
- How to File for Divorce in Iowa: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Iowa divorce basics: residency rule, no-fault grounds, the 90-day wait, filing fee, and required steps before your dissolution decree.
- Pennsylvania Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How Pennsylvania divides marital property in divorce: equitable distribution factors, separate property rules, and no-fault divorce timelines.
- Missouri Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Missouri decides child custody: the best-interest factors, the 2023 equal-parenting-time presumption, relocation notice deadlines, and modification rules.
- Idaho Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Idaho is a community property state: divorce law calls for a substantially equal split of marital property and debt, absent compelling reasons otherwise.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Arizona: Process, Proof & Timeline
Learn how Arizona's Order of Protection works — who qualifies, how to file, key deadlines, and how domestic violence affects custody — in plain language.
- Kansas Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Kansas calculates child support under its Child Support Guidelines, how long it lasts, and how to request a modification.
- Alimony in Vermont: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Vermont calls alimony "spousal maintenance." Learn who qualifies, how amount and duration are set, and how to modify or end an order.
- Can I Get a Divorce if My Spouse Refuses to Sign?
Yes. You do not need your spouse's signature or consent to divorce. Learn how a contested or default divorce works when a spouse refuses to cooperate.
- How to File for Divorce in Kentucky: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Kentucky divorce basics: the 180-day residency rule, the no-fault standard, and the 60-day separation required before a judge can enter a decree.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Missouri: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a Missouri restraining order (order of protection): who qualifies, the emergency filing process, proof needed, and how long it lasts.
- Rhode Island Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Rhode Island calculates, deviates from, and modifies child support under its Family Court guidelines and FC-78 worksheet.
- Alimony in Kansas: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Kansas calls alimony "maintenance." Learn who may qualify, how the amount is set, the 121-month cap, and how to modify or end payments.
- Alimony in Ohio: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Ohio calls it "spousal support," not alimony. Learn the 14 factors Ohio courts weigh, how it can be modified or ends, and what to do next.
- Idaho Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Idaho courts decide child custody: the best-interests standard, joint custody presumption, jurisdiction rules, and how to modify an order.
- Massachusetts Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Massachusetts courts decide child custody: the best-interests standard, legal vs. physical custody, abuse presumptions, and modification rules.
- Maryland Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Maryland decides custody using a 16-factor best-interest test, with a new law effective October 1, 2025. Here's how it works and what to do.
- Alimony in South Carolina: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
South Carolina has no alimony formula — six types of spousal support exist, and eligibility, duration, and modification hinge on statutory factors.
- Nebraska Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Nebraska decides child custody: the best-interests standard, legal vs. physical custody, parenting plans, and modification rules.
- How to File for Divorce in Michigan: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Michigan divorce filing rules: residency, the no-fault ground, and the 60-day or 6-month waiting period before your case can be finished.
- How to File for Divorce in New Jersey: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
New Jersey divorce basics: the one-year residency rule, no-fault vs. fault grounds, where to file, filing fees, and the steps after you file.
- Alimony in Utah: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Utah-specific plain-language guide to alimony eligibility, duration limits, required factors, fault, modification, and bankruptcy protections, grounded in official Utah materials.
- Hawaii Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Learn how Hawaii courts decide child custody under the best-interest standard, what joint custody means, and what parenting plans are required by law.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Indiana: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a restraining order (order for protection) in Indiana: who qualifies, where to file, the proof standard, and how long an order lasts.
- Utah Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Utah calculates child support under the income shares model, what counts as income, joint-custody adjustments, and how to modify an order.
- Rhode Island Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Rhode Island Family Court decides child custody, the Pettinato best-interest factors, domestic violence rules, and jurisdiction under the UCCJEA.
- Can I Get a Divorce and Still Live Together?
Yes, you can often divorce while living in the same house, but separation rules vary by state. Here's how living together during divorce actually works.
- Oregon Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Oregon divides marital property "just and proper," not automatic 50/50. How the equal-contribution presumption, debts, and military pay work.
- California Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
California child custody laws explained for non-lawyers: how courts decide custody, the best-interest factors, domestic violence rules, and mediation requirements.
- Maryland Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How Maryland courts divide marital property in divorce: equitable distribution, the family home, military pensions, and residency rules.
- Can I Get a Divorce While Pregnant?
You can usually file for divorce while pregnant, but many states like Texas won't finalize it until the baby is born. Here's why, and what to do.
- South Carolina Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
South Carolina Family Court decides child custody using a best-interest standard and statutory factors, not a preference for either parent or joint custody.
- North Dakota Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How North Dakota divides property in divorce: equitable distribution, the all-property rule, Ruff-Fischer factors, valuation dates, and residency rules.
- Virginia Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Virginia calculates child support under its income shares guideline, the updated 2025 schedule, and how to change or enforce an order.
- How to File for Divorce in Idaho: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Idaho divorce basics: the 6-week residency rule, no-fault and fault grounds, filing fees, the 21-day response window, and community property.
- Connecticut Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Connecticut calculates child support: income shares model, mandatory guidelines, deviation rules, modification thresholds, and free state enforcement services.
- Louisiana Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Louisiana calculates child support under the income shares model, who can get credits or modifications, and how enforcement works.
- Can I Get a Divorce Online? How Online Divorce Works
Online divorce explained: what these services actually do, when they work, free DIY options, Texas timing, getting your decree, and when to hire a lawyer.
- Alimony in Florida: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Florida alimony law changed in 2023: permanent alimony is gone. Learn the four types, who qualifies, and how long courts can award support in Florida.
- Colorado Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
Learn how Colorado calculates child support using the income shares model, what counts as income, how parenting time matters, and major 2026 law changes.
- Alimony in Virginia: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
How alimony works in Virginia: who qualifies, the factors judges weigh, the adultery bar, temporary support formulas, and when support ends.
- Washington Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Washington child custody explained: how parenting plans work, the best-interest factors, relocation notice rules, and how to modify a plan.
- How to File for Divorce in Alaska: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Alaska requires only domicile — no minimum residency period. Understand the two paths, grounds, the $250 filing fee, property rules, and steps for an Alaska divorce.
- California Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
California is a community property state: courts must divide marital assets equally at divorce. Learn what counts as separate property and what gets split.
- How to File for Divorce in Texas: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Texas divorce basics: residency rules, no-fault and fault grounds, the 60-day waiting period, and military protections explained in plain language.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Illinois: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get an order of protection in Illinois: who qualifies, emergency/interim/plenary timelines, the proof standard, filing costs, and interstate enforcement.
- Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Massachusetts calculates child support under the 2025 Guidelines, the income cap, minimum orders, and how to modify or enforce an order.
- How to File for Divorce in Arizona: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
A plain-language guide to filing for divorce in Arizona: residency rules, no-fault grounds, the 60-day waiting period, and free official court forms.
- Colorado Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Colorado divides marital property equitably—not 50/50. Learn which assets are separate, how courts weigh contributions, and the 91-day residency rule.
- Vermont Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Vermont decides child custody: no joint-custody presumption, best-interest factors, modifying orders, and residency rules for divorce.
- Alimony in Illinois: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Illinois calls alimony "maintenance." Learn who can qualify, how the guideline formula and duration work, and when it ends.
- Michigan Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Michigan calculates child support under the 2025 Child Support Formula, what counts as income, and how to request a change.
- Can Child Support Be Modified After Divorce?
Yes, child support can be modified after divorce. Learn what counts as a substantial change, how to file, and why past-due support can't be erased.
- Delaware Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
Learn how Delaware calculates child support using the Melson Formula, when orders can be modified, how long support lasts, and how DCSS enforces payments.
- How to File for Divorce in Ohio: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Ohio divorce filing rules: 6-month state and 90-day county residency, no-fault and fault grounds, and dissolution's 30-90 day hearing window.
- How to File for Divorce in Virginia: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
How to file for divorce in Virginia: residency rules, no-fault vs. fault grounds, waiting periods, property division, and free court resources.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Hawaii: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a domestic-abuse restraining order in Hawaii Family Court: the TRO process, proof standard, 15-day hearing, and 180-day limit.
- Kansas Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Kansas divides divorce property by "just and reasonable" equitable distribution, not automatic 50/50. See the factors, timing rules, and steps.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in New Mexico: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a restraining order (order of protection) in New Mexico: filing steps, emergency orders, custody overlap, and cross-state enforcement.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Nevada: Process, Proof & Timeline
How Nevada's Temporary and Extended Protection Orders work: eligibility, filing fees, the 1-day and 45-day court deadlines, and firearm surrender rules.
- How to File for Divorce in Rhode Island: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Rhode Island divorce basics: the one-year residency rule, no-fault and fault grounds, and how long you'll wait before the divorce is final.
- Grounds for Divorce: Fault, No-Fault, and Abandonment Explained
Yes, you can usually divorce a spouse who abandoned you. Learn fault vs. no-fault grounds, how abandonment works, and the steps to file when your spouse is gone.
- Connecticut Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Connecticut child custody is decided on the best interests of the child, weighing up to 17 factors. Learn how courts decide joint vs. sole custody in CT.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Nebraska: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a restraining order (protection order) in Nebraska: filing steps, emergency relief, nationwide enforcement, and what to confirm locally.
- Virginia Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Virginia divides marital property and debt equitably, not automatically 50/50. Here's how separate, marital, and retirement assets are split.
- Vermont Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How Vermont courts equitably divide marital property in divorce, what counts as marital property, residency rules, and key deadlines.
- How to File for Divorce in Missouri: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Missouri divorce basics: 90-day residency rule, no-fault grounds, 30-day wait, property division, and the new 2026 pregnancy law.
- Kentucky Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Kentucky calculates child support under its income shares model, including income rules, the self-support reserve, minimums, and shared-parenting credits.
- Minnesota Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Minnesota divorce property division explained: what is marital vs. nonmarital, the valuation date, and steps to protect your share.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Florida: Process, Proof & Timeline
Learn how to get an injunction for protection in Florida: who qualifies, where to file, what it costs, and how long the order lasts.
- Missouri Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Missouri divides divorce property by "equitable" (not equal) distribution. Learn what counts as marital vs. separate property and what to do next.
- New York Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
New York divides marital property "equitably," not automatically 50/50. Learn what counts as marital property, the 16 factors judges weigh, and pensions.
- How to File for Divorce in New York: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
How New York residency rules, no-fault vs. fault grounds, and court fees work when filing for divorce, plus what must be resolved first.
- Maine Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Maine divides divorce property by "equitable distribution," not 50/50. Learn what counts as marital property in Maine and how courts split it.
- Oregon Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
Oregon sets child support using an income-shares formula with a parenting-time credit; see how income, credits, and reviews work under Oregon law.
- Ohio Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Ohio calculates child support under the income shares model, including parenting-time credits, minimums, and modification rules.
- Delaware Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Delaware's Family Court uses the best-interests standard and eight specific factors to decide custody — no presumption favors either parent based on sex.
- How to File for Divorce in Louisiana: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Louisiana divorce basics: domicile and parish venue rules, the 180/365-day separation waiting periods, fault grounds, and covenant marriage limits.
- Alimony in Arizona: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Arizona calls alimony "spousal maintenance." Learn who qualifies, how the 2023 guidelines changed awards, and when payments end under Arizona law.
- New York Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
New York courts decide child custody using only the best-interests-of-the-child standard, with no legal preference for either parent.
- How to File for Divorce in California: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Learn how to file for divorce in California: residency rules, no-fault grounds, the mandatory 6-month wait, required forms, and filing fees explained.
- How to File for Divorce in Oregon: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Oregon divorce basics: the six-month residency rule, no-fault grounds, the $301 filing fee, and why Oregon has no waiting period today.
- Can I Get a Divorce Without Going to Court? Uncontested Divorce
Yes, many uncontested divorces finish without a courtroom hearing. Learn how agreed divorce works, when you still must appear, and the steps to take.
- South Carolina Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How South Carolina calculates child support: the Income Shares model, the three worksheets, income rules, overnights, and medical costs.
- Alimony in Oregon: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Oregon calls it spousal support, not alimony: the three types, the factors judges weigh, and how modification and duration work under Oregon law.
- Illinois Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Illinois no longer uses "custody" — courts allocate parenting time and decision-making. Here's how Illinois judges decide, and how to change an order later.
- Texas Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Texas splits marital property under community property rules, but "just and right" doesn't always mean a 50/50 divorce split.
- How to File for Divorce in Pennsylvania: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
How to file for divorce in Pennsylvania: the 6-month residency rule, no-fault vs. fault grounds, and the 1-year separation period explained.
- Indiana Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Indiana calculates child support under the Income Shares Guidelines, what counts as income, the parenting-time credit, and how to seek modification.
- Can I Change My Child's Last Name After Divorce?
Yes, you can usually change your child's last name after divorce, but it takes a court petition and notice to the other parent. Here's how it works.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Vermont: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a restraining order in Vermont: what the Family Division handles, what proof helps, and how federal law protects the order in other states.
- Alimony in New Hampshire: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
New Hampshire alimony explained: who can get term or reimbursement alimony, the income formula, maximum duration, and deadlines to ask.
- How to File for Divorce in Wisconsin: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Wisconsin divorce requires 6-month state and 30-day county residency, no-fault grounds, and a mandatory 120-day wait before the court can finalize it.
- Idaho Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Idaho calculates child support under its income shares model, how long it lasts, and how to modify an order.
- Alimony in Pennsylvania: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Alimony in Pennsylvania is need-based, not automatic. See who qualifies, how support/APL is calculated, and how long alimony can last.
- Alimony in Rhode Island: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Rhode Island alimony has no fixed formula—courts weigh marriage length, conduct, and need. Learn who qualifies and how long support can last.
- How to File for Divorce in North Dakota: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
North Dakota divorce basics: the six-month residency rule, fault and no-fault grounds, and why there's no statutory waiting period.
- Vermont Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Vermont calculates child support: the income shares model, self-support reserve, shared-custody adjustments, and how to modify an order.
- Alabama Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Alabama divides marital property through equitable distribution, not a 50/50 split. Learn the rules on retirement, residency, and protecting what's yours.
- Alimony in Massachusetts: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Massachusetts alimony rules: the four types, how duration is calculated by marriage length, what ends payments, and how to modify an order.
- Nebraska Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Nebraska calculates child support: the income-shares guidelines, what counts as income, minimum support, parenting-time adjustments, and modification rules.
- How to Get a Copy of Your Divorce Decree or Certificate
Yes, you can get a copy of your divorce. Learn where to request a decree vs. certificate, how to order online, costs, and what to do for old or out-of-state records.
- Alimony in New Jersey: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
New Jersey alimony explained: the four types, how long payments last, the 20-year rule for open-ended alimony, and when payments can change.
- South Dakota Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
South Dakota divides all marital and separate property "equitably," not automatically 50/50. Here's how it works and what to do next.
- Alabama Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
Learn how Alabama calculates child support using the Income Shares model under Rule 32, what income counts, and how to seek a modification.
- Alimony in New Mexico: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
How alimony works in New Mexico: who qualifies, the five types of spousal support, the 10 legal factors, and how long it can last.
- West Virginia Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
West Virginia starts custody cases with a 50-50 time-sharing presumption. Learn how judges decide, when that presumption changes, and what to do next.
- Can I Get a Divorce Without My Marriage Certificate?
Yes, you can usually divorce without your marriage certificate. Here is how courts verify your marriage and how to get a certified copy if you need one.
- North Dakota Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How North Dakota decides child custody: decision-making vs. residential responsibility, best-interest factors, domestic violence rules, and relocation limits.
- How to File for Divorce in Kansas: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Kansas divorce basics: the 60-day residency rule, no-fault grounds, the 60-day waiting period, and how courts divide property and set maintenance.
- Alimony in Nebraska: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
How alimony works in Nebraska: no formula, the § 42-365 factors, when payments end, and key divorce deadlines.
- Alimony in Colorado: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Colorado calls it "maintenance," not alimony. Learn who qualifies, how the advisory amount is calculated, and how long payments last under Colorado law.
- Alimony in Delaware: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Delaware alimony: who qualifies as a dependent spouse, how long payments can last, what ends support automatically, and how to modify an order.
- How Fast Can You Get a Divorce? Waiting Periods by State
How fast can you get divorced? Waiting periods and residency rules vary widely by state. What controls your timeline, and how to move fast.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Utah: Process, Proof & Timeline
How to get a restraining order in Utah: who to ask, what proof helps, and how the process generally moves from emergency order to hearing.
- How to File for Divorce in West Virginia: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
West Virginia divorce basics: residency rules, no-fault and fault grounds, where to file, fees, and how long it takes to get a Final Order.
- Alaska Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Alaska courts decide custody by the best interests of the child. Learn how AS 25.24.150, joint custody, and parenting-time rules shape your case.
- Nebraska Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
How Nebraska courts divide marital property in divorce, covering the one-third-to-half guideline, retirement accounts, and residency and timing rules.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Maryland: Process, Proof & Timeline
Maryland's "restraining order" is legally a protective order, granted in interim, temporary, and final stages — here's the eligibility rules, proof standard, and deadlines.
- Alimony in Alaska: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Alaska calls it spousal maintenance. Learn what seven factors courts weigh, how long awards last, and how Alaska's no-fault rules affect your case.
- New Mexico Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How New Mexico decides child custody: the joint custody presumption, best-interest factors, relocation notice, and which court has jurisdiction.
- Connecticut Divorce Property Division: Who Gets What
Connecticut divorce property division explained: the all-property equitable distribution rule, court factors, real estate transfers, and bankruptcy protections.
- How to File for Divorce in Illinois: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Illinois divorce basics: the 90-day residency rule, the sole no-fault ground, the 6-month separation presumption, and how to file in Circuit Court.
- New Hampshire Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How New Hampshire calculates child support: the guideline percentages, income rules, parenting-time presumptions, minimums, and how to modify or enforce an order.
- Arizona Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
Learn how Arizona calculates child support using the Income Shares Model, when orders can be modified, and how enforcement works under Arizona law.
- Illinois Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Illinois calculates child support using the income shares model, shared-care credits, low-income limits, and how to request a modification.
- Where Can I File for Divorce? State Residency Rules
Where you can file for divorce depends on residency. Learn the state rules, filing from another state or country, and military and jurisdiction exceptions.
- Alimony in Kentucky: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Kentucky calls it "maintenance," not alimony: who qualifies, the six factors courts weigh, and when it can end or change.
- How to File for Divorce in Nebraska: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Nebraska divorce basics: the one-year residency rule, the no-fault ground, the 60-day wait after service, and when your decree becomes final.
- New Jersey Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How New Jersey calculates child support under the Income Shares guidelines, which worksheet applies, income rules, and how to file, modify, or enforce an order.
- Alimony in Maine: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Maine calls alimony "spousal support." See who qualifies, the five award types, how marriage length limits awards, and how to modify an order in Maine.
- Missouri Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How Missouri calculates child support under Form 14 and the income shares model, plus adjustments, modification rules, and enforcement.
- Minnesota Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Minnesota decides child custody using a 12-factor best-interests test, with a joint-legal-custody presumption and special rules for abuse and moves.
- How to File for Divorce in Washington: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
How to file for divorce (dissolution) in Washington: residency rules, the no-fault ground, the 90-day waiting period, and property/support basics.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Iowa: Process, Proof & Timeline
Iowa's civil "restraining order" is a Chapter 236 protective order — how to file, prove abuse, get emergency relief, and how long it lasts.
- West Virginia Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How West Virginia calculates child support: the income shares formula, shared-parenting adjustments, modification rules, and when support ends.
- New Jersey Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How New Jersey courts decide child custody: the best-interests factors, 2026 safety-first amendments, relocation rules, and jurisdiction basics.
- Colorado Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Colorado calls custody 'allocation of parental responsibilities.' Learn how Colorado courts decide parenting time, decision-making, and modification.
- Alimony in Indiana: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
Indiana has no traditional alimony—only three narrow "maintenance" types. Learn who qualifies and how long each can last under Indiana law.
- Maine Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Maine courts decide "parental rights and responsibilities" (not custody), the best-interest standard, relocation notice rules, and modification.
- How to File for Divorce in Nevada: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Nevada divorce basics: the 6-week residency rule, the three legal grounds, no mandatory waiting period, where to file, and how property and custody are handled.
- Indiana Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Learn how Indiana decides child custody: best-interest factors, joint legal custody rules, modification standards, and relocation deadlines.
- Montana Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
Montana decides child custody through court-ordered parenting plans based on the child's best interest, plus strict rules on changes and moves.
- How to File for Divorce in Maine: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Maine divorce basics: residency rules, no-fault vs. fault grounds, the non-waivable 60-day wait, filing forms, and how property gets divided.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in North Carolina: Process, Proof & Timeline
North Carolina restraining orders overlap with custody law: judges must weigh domestic violence, and federal law enforces your order nationwide.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Rhode Island: Process, Proof & Timeline
How restraining orders intersect with Rhode Island Family Court custody, alimony, and support cases, plus the federal law that enforces your order nationwide.
- How to File for Divorce in Delaware: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
Learn Delaware's residency requirement, grounds for divorce, the 6-month separation rule, and where to file in Delaware Family Court.
- North Carolina Child Support Guidelines: How Support Is Calculated
How North Carolina calculates child support under the income shares model, who counts as income, and how orders are enforced and modified.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Louisiana: Process, Proof & Timeline
How Louisiana domestic-abuse restraining orders work: TRO standards, 24-hour service, 21/10-day hearing deadlines, and the 18-month order cap.
- Iowa Child Custody Laws: How Custody Is Decided
How Iowa decides child custody: the best-interest standard, joint custody rules, domestic abuse presumptions, and the 150-mile relocation rule.
- How to Get a Restraining Order in Ohio: Process, Proof & Timeline
How restraining/protection orders generally work in Ohio: where to start, what proof helps, the emergency-order-then-hearing pattern, and enforcement.
- Alimony in New York: Who Qualifies and How Long It Lasts
How New York spousal maintenance is calculated, who can get it, and how long it lasts, including the 2026 income cap.
- How to File for Divorce in New Mexico: Residency, Grounds & Waiting Period
How to file for divorce in New Mexico: residency rules, no-fault grounds, official forms, filing fees, and what happens after you file.