Uncontested Divorce in Ohio

Considering an Uncontested Divorce in Ohio?

• Legal Separation in Ohio: Get help ending your marriage in Ohio as seamlessly as possible.
• Dissolution: Get help ending your union in Ohio, legally and equitably.
• Financial Disclosures: Calculate your full assets’ values, leaving nothing on the table.
• Post-Divorce Modification: Change your divorce decree after new circumstances have come to light.
• Annulments: Have your union ended as if it never legally happened.
• Visitation & Child Custody: Secure your parental rights to see your children.
• How to File for Divorce: Learn how to successfully petition for divorce.
• Ohio Divorce Timeline: Have your divorce go as smoothly as possible.
• Asset Division: Protect your property and equitably.
• Spousal Support: Get a fair ruling on support between partners.

What Is Uncontested Divorce?

An uncontested divorce in Ohio is a divorce where both spouses mutually agree to end the marriage and resolve all critical issues without dispute.

Gavvl Law, LLC makes a no-fault divorce even easier and more accessible than ever. Our experienced and local divorce attorneys offer personalized support tailored to your needs, budget, and location, ensuring transparency, convenience, and affordability.

Uncontested Divorce vs. Dissolution 

Uncontested divorce and dissolution both end a marriage in Ohio. Uncontested divorce begins with one spouse filing a complaint, requires grounds for divorce, and has a waiting period.

Dissolution is jointly filed, doesn’t require grounds, and can be resolved faster. While both require mutual agreement, dissolution is more collaborative.

Ohio Requirements for Uncontested Divorce 

Ohio has several requirements that must be met to file an uncontested divorce:

Mutual Agreement 

Both spouses must fully agree on all terms, including child custody, child support, property division, and spousal support.

Residency

At least one spouse must have lived in Ohio for six months and in the county where the divorce is filed for at least 90 days.

Grounds for Divorce 

While Ohio is a no-fault state, the reasoning for divorce must be cited in the petition.

Separation Agreement

A detailed, uncontested divorce agreement outlining all terms must be prepared and signed by both spouses.

Grounds for Uncontested Divorce in Ohio

Couples seeking an uncontested divorce in Ohio typically use one of the following:

• Incompatibility: This is the most common ground for uncontested divorces. Both spouses must agree that they are incompatible and that reconciliation is impossible.
• Living separate and apart: If the couple has lived separately without cohabitation for one year or more, this can serve as grounds for divorce.

Other grounds exist (e.g., adultery, cruelty), but these are rarely used in uncontested cases as they typically lead to conflict and require proof.

How to Get an Uncontested Divorce in OH

An uncontested divorce in Ohio generally follows these steps:

Mutually Agree

Both spouses must agree on all divorce terms, including child custody, child support, property division, and spousal support.

Draft an Agreement

Write a legally valid separation agreement outlining the terms that should be created.

File the Petition

One spouse files a divorce petition with the county court where at least one spouse has resided for 90 days.

Serve the Other Spouse

The spouse filing the petition must legally serve the other spouse with the divorce papers. The other party has 42 days to respond. If the other party fails to respond, the divorce is granted.

The Court Hearing

Both spouses must appear in court to confirm the terms of the agreement and that the divorce is voluntary.

The Divorce Decree

If the judge approves the agreement, your divorce decree will be issued, finalizing your uncontested divorce.

Frequently Asked Questions about No Fault Divorce

How is uncontested divorce different from traditional divorce?

Uncontested divorce involves mutual agreement on all issues, while traditional (contested) divorce may require court intervention to resolve disputes. Uncontested divorces are typically faster, less stressful, and less expensive than conventional divorces because there’s no court battle.

Do you need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce?

While you aren’t legally required to work with a lawyer for an uncontested divorce, hiring a local attorney is beneficial. They can ensure all paperwork is correctly filed under Ohio law, minimize the risk of errors, assist in negotiating terms, and represent you in court.

How much does an uncontested divorce cost?

The cost of an uncontested divorce in Ohio varies but is generally less expensive than a contested divorce. Expenses include court filing fees and attorney fees.

Do I have to go to court for an uncontested divorce in Ohio?

Yes, Ohio requires at least one brief court appearance for uncontested divorces. This hearing is typically short and straightforward, where a judge will review and approve the agreed-upon terms.

How long does an uncontested divorce take?

An uncontested divorce in Ohio can be finalized in as little as a few months, depending on court schedules and how quickly you and your spouse complete the necessary paperwork.

What if we disagree on an issue during the process?

If you can’t agree on all aspects of your divorce, it becomes contested. You may then need to consider mediation or traditional divorce proceedings to resolve the disputed issues.

Can you get an uncontested divorce with children involved?

You can have an uncontested divorce in Ohio, even with children involved. However, it requires both parents to agree on all child-related issues, including custody, visitation, and child support.

Can I change the terms of an uncontested divorce after filing?

Yes, you can modify the terms of your uncontested divorce before it’s finalized. However, both parties must agree to the changes, and you may need to file amended paperwork with the court.

How Does Gavvl Make Uncontested Divorces Easier?

Gavvl streamlines uncontested divorce by starting with a phone call or online questionnaire. You’ll meet with one of our managing attorneys to discuss your needs in a free 30-minute consultation. Then, we assign a qualified local lawyer based on your requirements, location, and urgency, ensuring you receive the support you need within two business days.

You’ll have 24/7 access to your case, convenient communication with your lawyer, and only pay for the needed services, making for a stress-free, uncontested divorce.