Q. What is Dissolution?
Dissolution (often mistakenly referred to as dissolutionment):

• Both parties file a petition
• By nature, a dissolution is uncontested
• The parties agree to all issues, including custody, child support, spousal support, division of assets, debts, household goods and property, retirement accounts, life insurance, etc.
• Both parties must appear at the final hearing, or the case will be dismissed
• The parties exchange any financial or other information prior to filing the case, and there is no court ordered disclosure of assets
• There are no temporary orders while the case is pending
• There are no restraining orders preventing either party from disposing of or selling assets while the case is pending
• There is no trial
• A dissolution should be concluded within 90 days of the filing of the petition

Q. What is the difference between a divorce and dissolution?
The major differences are that in Divorce

• One party files a complaint for divorce
• Can be contested or uncontested, depending upon whether the defendant answers and/or contests
• The court can order temporary orders while the case is pending
• The court can issue restraining orders while the case is pending to prevent either party from disposing of assets, harassing the other, etc.
• The parties are required to exchange financial and other information with each other during a process called “discovery”
• The case may result in a trial
• A divorce can last anywhere from 90 days to one year (no children) or 18 months or more (divorce with children).

The information provided in this web site is applicable in the state of
Ohio and is provided as a public service. While Virginia Cornwell is a Columbus Ohio Divorce Lawyer and a Columbus Ohio Custody Attorney, viewing the information in this web
site does not constitute an attorney-client communication, and acting upon
information obtained from this web site does not create an attorney-client
relationship. If you would like to discuss the application of the law to your
fact situation, or if you would like additional information, please call the Law
Offices of Virginia C. Cornwell at 614-225-9316 to schedule a consultation.