The Divorce Process in Ohio

Ohio offers two paths to end a marriage: divorce (contested or uncontested) and dissolution (mutual agreement). Dissolution requires complete agreement on all issues and typically proceeds faster, while divorce allows the court to resolve disputes. Ohio is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. The court considers numerous factors including the duration of marriage, assets and liabilities, and each spouse's economic circumstances. Ohio courts prioritize the best interests of children in custody determinations, considering factors such as the parents' wishes, the child's adjustment to home and community, and the mental and physical health of all parties involved.

**Duration:** 6 months in Ohio, 90 days in filing county At least one spouse must have been a resident of Ohio for six months and a resident of the county where filing for at least 90 days before filing for divorce.

**No-Fault:** Incompatibility (unless denied by other spouse) or living separate and apart for one year **Waiting Period:** None for incompatibility if uncontested