Dissolution of marriage is generally another term for divorce—but in some states it specifically refers to an uncontested divorce—a no fault divorce with a written separation agreement. And in California, for example, there is a summary dissolution that provides an expedited process under limited circumstances (California Family Code §2400).

The laws regarding various methods for dissolving a marriage are usually located in a state’s statutes—often in the Family Code or Domestic Relations Code.

In Virginia, dissolution of marriage is synonymous with divorce. Virginia law allows for both fault-based and no-fault divorces. A no-fault divorce can be obtained after the parties have lived separately for the required period, which is one year for most couples or six months if the couple has no minor children and has entered into a separation agreement. The Code of Virginia § 20-91 outlines the grounds for divorce, including both fault and no-fault grounds. The state does not have a summary dissolution process like California. Instead, uncontested divorces in Virginia may be simpler and quicker if the parties agree on all terms, but they still must follow the standard legal process, which includes filing a complaint for divorce and obtaining a decree of divorce from the court. The separation agreement plays a crucial role in uncontested divorces as it outlines the terms agreed upon by the parties regarding property division, spousal support, and child custody, if applicable.