Getting a divorce is one of the most challenging decisions a married couple can go through. There are a lot of things to think about before both decide to go through a divorce.
This includes child support, parental responsibilities, properties, financial assets, debts, and many more.
Another thing that you need to think about is how much it will cost you to get a divorce. And getting a divorce is not exactly cheap.
You also need to think about what comes next after the divorce. So what comes after a divorce?
Yes, there are all the personal, emotional decisions that need to be made. Getting a fresh start. But the very first thing that happens is that you will receive something called a divorce decree.
But what is a divorce decree exactly? What does it do? And how does one get one?
In this article, we will tell you this important document is. Get an overview of what it is, why it’s important, what’s on it, how to get it and more below.
What Is a Divorce Decree?
Divorce decrees are formal orders issued by the court after the end of the divorce process.
A divorce decree officially finalizes the divorce and states that the marriage is legally over. Sometimes a divorce decree goes by other names, such as a final judgment or a judgment of divorce.
An absolute divorce decree dully dissolves the marriage between the two ex-spouses. This means that both parties can remarry another person.
As for jointly-owned property, it is divided based on the agreement between the two parties during the divorce process. Once the property has been divided, neither party can claim ownership over the property of one party.
An absolute divorce decree can resolve issues such as:
- Payment of alimony
- Children custody
- Child support
- Use of the last name
Limited Divorce Decrees
On the other hand, a limited divorce decree does not entirely end the marriage. But, limited divorce decrees can resolve specific important issues such as:
- Child custody
- Child support
- Spousal support
- Possession of property
You will receive a divorce decree once the divorce process is over, regardless if the process of it is contested or uncontested. But it is only considered final when it goes through the court system.
If both you and your ex-spouse have created your divorce decree, you will need the judge to sign it and enter it into the court system. Once that is done, you and your ex-spouse will be provided a certified copy of this important document.
You can get your official copy at the courthouse, in the clerk’s office. They can be either picked up by you or your lawyer.
After receiving your divorce decree, you are obliged to follow the agreement that it outlines. These obligations include the ones stated earlier, such as the division of property and child support.
If you are thinking of getting a divorce, we hope that this article has helped you gain some insight into one aspect of the process. Please check out our other articles for additional information.