Dissolution of Marriage Forms: Complete Guide [2026]
Understanding dissolution of marriage — the legal process of ending a marriage, its forms, and how it differs by state.
📅 Last updated: April 18, 2026
"Dissolution of marriage" is the legal term for divorce in many states, including Colorado, Ohio, Oregon, and Washington. The dissolution process and required forms are essentially the same as divorce — a petition, service, financial disclosure, and final decree. Some states use "dissolution" specifically for uncontested cases where both parties agree.
Dissolution vs. Divorce: What's the Difference?
In most states, "dissolution of marriage" and "divorce" are interchangeable legal terms for ending a marriage. However, some states make a distinction:
| Term | Used In | Typical Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Dissolution | Colorado, Ohio, Oregon, Washington | No-fault, agreed-upon ending of marriage |
| Divorce | Most states | Any type of marriage termination (fault or no-fault) |
| Annulment | All states | Declares marriage was never legally valid |
Required Dissolution Forms
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Summons or Waiver of Service
- Financial Disclosure Statement
- Settlement/Separation Agreement
- Parenting Plan (if children involved)
- Child Support Worksheet (if applicable)
- Decree of Dissolution
Get Dissolution of Marriage Forms
State-specific forms for your dissolution proceeding. Complete online, download, and file.
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