Do I Qualify For A Summary Divorce

A summary divorce is an option many states, including California, Oregon, Minnesota, and Nebraska, offer to couples with no children and very few, if any, assets as a way to dissolve their marriage quickly and efficiently. Not every state offers this option, however, and not every marriage will be eligible for a summary divorce. Visit your state's official website to see if a summary divorce is legal in your state or contact a local divorce lawyer.

How Is A Summary Divorce Different Than A Traditional One

A summary divorce is a very attractive option for couples who want a simple, streamlined divorce process that does not have all of the back-and-forth negotiations that a traditional divorce has. There is much less paperwork in a summary divorce than a traditional divorce, there are many fewer, if any, court appearances required, and they take less time because there cannot be any property or custody disputes.

Am I Eligible

In the states that allow summary divorces, there are usually non-negotiable requirements that must be met. Each state is different, so this is only a partial list. Some examples include:

The couple must have been married a short period of time, typically five or fewer years.

The couple must not have any minor children, natural or adopted.

The couple must not have any substantial marital property, like a mortgage.

The total value of all marital property must be less than a specified amount, usually $25,000 to $35,000.

Each person in the marital couple cannot own separate property more than the total value of all of the marital property.

Both spouses give up the right to any type of spousal support.

Keep in mind that this is a short list of some of the requirements that some states have for those looking for a summary divorce. Some states allow summary divorces if there are minor children involved or if there are substantial marital or individual assets. This is one reason why working with a divorce lawyer is beneficial; they will know the ins-and-outs of your state's divorce laws.