Dissolving a marriage can be a complicated process. You need to be adequately informed from the word go. One of the things to understand is whether or not you need legal grounds to file for a divorce.
Here is what you need to know:
No-fault divorce
Iowa recognizes no-fault divorce. Therefore, someone who files for a divorce (a petitioner) doesn’t need to blame their spouse for breaking the marriage or inform the court about the wrongdoings of their spouse. All they have to show is the marriage is broken, and there is no likelihood for it to be saved.
The steps to follow
If you want to obtain a divorce in Iowa, you will file a petition for dissolution of marriage with the court. Include all crucial details in your petition. The Clerk of the court will then provide your spouse with a copy of the petition and an original notice.
Typically, it will take 90 days for a divorce to be granted after the above-discussed steps. During this period, several procedures can take place, including obtaining temporary orders regarding child custody, child support and alimony and negotiating settlements, among others. In most cases, the decisions made during the waiting period can be made permanent during the final hearing if both parties agree.
However, when there is a good cause, the waiting period can be waived. If you can prove the court needs to act immediately, you may get a divorce without waiting for 90 days.
Courts in Iowa don’t necessarily need to hear about the wrongdoing or fault of a spouse during the dissolution of a marriage. Couples can go through a no-fault divorce. Consider seeking legal guidance to understand the process in-depth and, in turn, make informed decisions.
