Understanding Dissolution of Marriage in Arizona

What you Should Know

In Arizona, the legal term for divorce is “dissolution of marriage.” This process formally ends a marital relationship and determines property division, parental rights, and financial obligations under Arizona law. Whether you’re filing in Maricopa County or Mohave County, understanding the dissolution process can make a challenging time more manageable.

At Rideout Law Group, our experienced family law attorneys in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City guide clients through each step of the divorce process with empathy, precision, and years of courtroom experience.

Grounds for Dissolution in Arizona

Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, which means neither spouse has to prove misconduct or wrongdoing. The only ground for dissolution is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”

However, Arizona recognizes two types of marriages:

• Covenant Marriages: Require premarital counseling and allow limited grounds for dissolution, such as adultery, abuse, or abandonment.
• Standard Marriages: Allow for straightforward filing when one or both spouses agree that the marriage cannot be saved.

Your attorney will help determine which applies to your case and guide you through the required documentation.

The Dissolution Process Step-by-Step

1. Filing the Petition
   One spouse (the Petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the county where either spouse resides.
2. Service of Process
   The other spouse (the Respondent) must be served with the petition and has 20 days to respond if residing in Arizona—or 30 days if living out of state.
3. Temporary Orders
   The court may issue temporary orders regarding child custody, support, and property while the case is pending.
4. Disclosure and Discovery
   Both spouses exchange financial information to ensure a fair and transparent division of assets and debts.
5. Negotiation or Mediation
   Many Arizona counties require mediation before trial to resolve disputes involving custody, support, or property.
6. Final Decree
   When agreements are reached—or the court issues a ruling—the judge signs a Decree of Dissolution of Marriage, officially ending the marriage.

Property, Custody, and Support Considerations

Arizona follows community property laws, meaning assets and debts acquired during the marriage are typically divided equally.

Common issues in dissolution cases include:

• Child Custody and Parenting Plans determined by the child’s best interests.
• Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) based on need, income, and the duration of the marriage.
• Division of Assets and Debts, including real estate, retirement accounts, and personal property.

A skilled Arizona family law attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and court orders reflect your family’s unique needs.

How Rideout Law Group Can Help

With offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City, Rideout Law Group provides dedicated representation for divorce and family law cases throughout Arizona. Led by Brad Rideout, Carolyn Keist-Gilbert, and Steven Eckhardt, our team brings decades of combined experience and a client-first approach to every case.

📞 Call us today at (480) 584-3328
📍 Directions to Scottsdale Office
✉️ Contact Us Online

Whether your divorce is amicable or contested, we’re here to protect your rights, your finances, and your family’s future.