If issues in a relationship can’t be resolved, you may decide to end your marriage and move on. Divorce law varies by state, which is why you should hire an attorney to help with the process. If you’re planning to part ways with a spouse in Ohio, below are answers to common questions to prepare your case. 

Questions About Ohio Divorces Answered

What are acceptable grounds for ending a marriage?

In Ohio, you can petition for a divorce under fault or no-fault grounds. To obtain a no-fault divorce, you and your spouse must agree that it’s best to end the marriage because of incompatibility. You must also have lived apart for at least one year. Common grounds for a fault-based divorce are adultery, cruelty, and desertion. 

How long must I be an Ohio resident?

To obtain a divorce in any state, you must meet residency law requirements. In Ohio, either you or your spouse must have resided in the state for at least six months before seeking a divorce. You can file for an Ohio divorce, even if your spouse lives in another state, if you meet this residency requirement. 

What are rules for the division of assets?

Under Ohio law, assets are distributed according to equitable distribution instead of community property standards. The independent income each spouse earns is solely theirs after the marriage as is any property owned only in one of their names. A judge, not the attorneys, makes decisions regarding the distribution of marital assets.    

How is alimony determined?

Your attorney will work out an alimony agreement as part of the divorce settlement. In Ohio, a judge considers several factors when deciding spousal support, including each party’s income and earning potential as well as how long the marriage lasted and which spouse takes on the larger share of parenting responsibilities. Spousal support is typically tax-deductible.

If you want to obtain a divorce in Ohio, contact the knowledgeable attorneys at Riley Resar & Associates PLL in Lorain. Serving northern Ohio residents since 1984, they provide sound counsel to litigate on their clients’ behalf regarding spousal support, child custody, and contested family law matters. To discuss your case with a skilled divorce attorney, call (440) 244-5214, or visit the firm online for a list of additional practice areas.