Nolo Logo Lawyer Directory Newsletter Nolo Now: Nolo's Online Document Service Blogs Cart
Estate planning for less -- save 37% now!
GETTING A DIVORCE

Judge Joe Brown ad

Divorce: Do You Need a Lawyer?

Divorce can be hellish for some people, but you may also know people who pulled it off without much fuss. Why are some divorces sensible and others catastrophic? The answer often depends on how much you rely on courts and lawyers to resolve divorce issues. The less you use the court, the less cost and heartache for everyone. But how do you avoid going the litigation route?

> more

separation

A situation in which the partners in a married couple live apart. Spouses are said to be living apart if they no longer reside in the same dwelling, even though they may continue their relationship. A legal separation results when the parties separate and a court rules on the division of property, such as alimony or child support -- but does not grant a divorce.

More Definitions

Should I get an annulment or a divorce?

I have been married for one year at the end of this month and it seems that the marriage is mutually over. We have no joint assets and no children; this is my first marriage, his second. What is the difference between an annulment and a divorce? Is there an advantage to one over the other?

> more
Make a legally valid will online.
Essential Guide to Divorce
Nolo's Essential Guide to Divorce
Book / $17.99
eBook / $13.99

A Judge's Guide to Divorce
A Judge's Guide to Divorce: Uncommon Advice From the Bench
Book w/ CDROM / $17.99
eBook / $13.99

Divorce & Money
Divorce & Money: How to Make the Best Financial Decisions During Divorce
Book / $23.99
eBook / $21.99

Nolo New Editions