Divorce has become ingrained in our culture; in the USA, divorce is primarily governed by specific state divorce laws. Divorce is formally called “dissolution of marriage” in Washington. Choosing the right State makes a big difference to what it costs and how long it takes.

State to State variations exist in Grounds for Divorce and Residency Requirements, Property Division, Alimony/Spousal Support, Custody, Child Support and Visitatation. Divorce in New Hampshire often includes a name change. When it’s working, the Cornell webpage www.law.cornell.edu/topics/Table_Divorce.htm links to the divorce laws of the different States and to tables summarizing some of their salient points. Those interested in the divorce law of a particular jurisdiction should review its law directly rather than rely on the tables that may not be fully accurate or complete.

For example durational requirements go from a minimum of zero to 1 year, but be aware that California requires domicile as distinguished from residency for jurisdictional purposes. Where state divorce laws require living separate and apart as a key factor, the requirement can vary from 60 days to as much as 3 years. The acceptable grounds for divorce may or may not include incompatibility depending on the State.