When a marriage comes to an end, one of the biggest concerns is how to manage the legal process in the most cost-effective way. In Ohio, couples have two primary options: divorce and dissolution of marriage. While both methods legally end a marriage, dissolution is often the more affordable and efficient route.
The key difference between dissolution and divorce lies in how the separation is handled. Dissolution is a mutual agreement between spouses to terminate their marriage without litigation, while divorce involves one party filing a legal action against the other, often leading to court battles. Because dissolution requires full cooperation, it eliminates many of the financial burdens associated with divorce.
If you and your spouse are willing to work together to reach an agreement, choosing dissolution over divorce can provide significant financial benefits. Lower attorney fees, fewer court costs, and a faster resolution can help you preserve your assets and move forward with financial stability.
Lower Legal Costs
One of the most immediate advantages of dissolution is the reduction in legal fees. Divorce cases, especially contested ones, require multiple court appearances, legal motions, and prolonged negotiations. All of these factors drive up attorney fees and overall costs.
With dissolution, both spouses work together to resolve all matters—such as asset division, child custody, and support—before filing with the court. This streamlined process eliminates many of the legal steps required in divorce, significantly lowering attorney fees.
Fewer Court Appearances = Lower Attorney Fees
In a contested divorce, each disagreement—whether about property, parenting time, or financial support—requires legal intervention. Court hearings, depositions, and formal discovery (the legal process of gathering evidence) all take time and money. Attorneys charge for every hour spent preparing for and attending these proceedings.
Dissolution, on the other hand, typically requires just one court appearance to finalize the agreement. Because everything is settled beforehand, the legal process is much simpler and less expensive.
No Lengthy Litigation = Reduced Legal Expenses
Litigation can be one of the most expensive aspects of divorce. When spouses cannot agree, attorneys must file motions, attend hearings, and sometimes even go to trial. The longer a divorce drags on, the more both parties end up paying in legal fees.
Since dissolution requires a fully negotiated agreement before filing, there is no need for litigation. The absence of courtroom battles means lower overall legal costs.
Faster Resolution = Less Money Spent
Time is money—especially in legal matters. Dissolution is a much faster process than divorce, which means fewer billable hours for attorneys and fewer procedural costs.
Dissolution Generally Takes Less Time Than Contested Divorce
A contested divorce in Ohio can take months or even years to resolve, depending on the level of conflict between spouses. The longer the process, the more both parties must pay in attorney fees, court costs, and mediation expenses.
In contrast, dissolution typically takes only 30 to 90 days from filing to completion. This means fewer legal expenses and less financial disruption.
Fewer Court Fees, Mediation Expenses, and Procedural Costs
Divorce often involves multiple filings, each with its own associated court fees. If the couple cannot agree on key issues, mediation may be required—an additional expense.
Dissolution avoids many of these costs. Because all issues are settled in advance, the court fees are minimal, and there is no need for ongoing mediation or procedural filings.
Avoiding Litigation and Related Expenses
A major cost of divorce is the price of litigation. When couples cannot agree, they may end up in court fighting over assets, child custody, and financial support. This process is not only emotionally draining but also extremely expensive.
Court Battles Over Assets, Custody, and Support Can Be Costly
Divorce litigation can involve forensic accountants, expert witnesses, and other professionals who charge high fees. The more complex the case, the more these costs add up.
In dissolution, both parties negotiate an agreement privately, avoiding the need for costly expert testimony and legal proceedings.
Dissolution Avoids Drawn-Out Negotiations
A contested divorce often involves long, tense negotiations between attorneys. Each issue—property division, debt allocation, spousal support—can become a legal battle.
Dissolution encourages couples to reach an agreement before filing, eliminating the need for costly back-and-forth legal disputes.
Minimizing Emotional and Financial Stress
The financial impact of divorce extends beyond legal fees. Prolonged disputes can cause stress that affects work performance, mental health, and overall financial stability.
Lower Stress Often Means Fewer Financial Consequences
Long legal battles can lead to lost work hours, increased medical expenses due to stress, and even the need for counseling. By choosing dissolution, couples can avoid these indirect financial burdens.
Preservation of Assets Due to Cooperative Division
In a high-conflict divorce, spouses may spend so much on legal fees that they significantly reduce their shared assets. Fighting over property often results in both parties ending up with less than if they had settled amicably.
Dissolution allows couples to control how their assets are divided, ensuring a fair outcome without excessive legal expenses.
FAQ Section
Can dissolution still involve attorney fees?
Yes, but they are usually much lower than in a contested divorce. Many couples choose to hire an attorney to review their dissolution agreement before filing, which is a minimal expense compared to the ongoing legal battles of divorce.
Does dissolution guarantee no court involvement?
Dissolution requires a single court hearing to finalize the agreement. However, this is typically a brief and straightforward process, unlike the multiple court appearances required in a contested divorce.
Final Thoughts
For couples in Ohio looking for a cost-effective way to end their marriage, dissolution offers clear financial benefits. With lower legal fees, faster resolution, and less emotional and financial strain, dissolution allows spouses to separate without the excessive costs of divorce.
If you are considering dissolution and want to understand your options, Garretson & Holcomb, LLC in West Chester Township, OH, can provide the guidance you need. Our attorneys are experienced, professional, and committed to helping you achieve a fair and affordable resolution. Call us today at (513) 863-6600 to discuss your case.
