Divorce

The legal dissolution of a marriage is called a divorce. Once a divorce decree is issued, the court with jurisdiction over the parties will also address issues related to property distribution, alimony, child support, child custody, and child visitation.  Tax issues such as who will be responsible for tax payments for real estate and who will be entitled to take tax deductions for property taxes and mortgage interest should also be addressed.  Most jurisdictions will require that the spouses attempt to resolve many or all of these matters through mediation and present the court with recommendations as to how disputed issues should be resolved.  This helps courts to handle already busy dockets and reduces the amount that the parties will spend on legal expenses.