If you have decided that the best thing for you and your spouse is to dissolve your marriage, you will need to obtain a divorce decree. This is one of the most important legal documents when a marriage comes to an end as it formalizes the end of a marriage and outlines its legally binding terms. Please continue reading to learn the importance of a divorce decree and why connecting with a trusted Garden City Divorce Lawyer is in your best interest. 

What is Included in a Divorce Decree?

A divorce decree, or divorce judgment, is a court order that legally terminates a marriage. This legal document is issued after successful divorce proceedings, detailing the terms that will apply to the termination of the marriage and providing proof that you are no longer in a legal union. It’s important to note that a divorce decree is different from a divorce certificate.

Although both demonstrate that you are no longer married, a divorce decree is issued by the court and outlines the terms of your divorce, whereas a divorce certificate simply shows that you are officially divorced. Essentially, the divorce certificate does not reveal any infromation about your divorce judgment. A divorce decree contains the terms by which you and your spouse are bound following your split. Therefore, it can include the following elements:

  • Details about the court proceedings, including the full names and identities of both parties
  • Details about the court presiding over the divorce
  • Details about the marriage
  • Details about the division of property
  • Details about spousal support
  • Details about child custody and support
  • Details about the reason for the divorce
  • Details about name changes

Why is This Legal Document Important?

A divorce decree is important for numerous reasons. For starters, it dictates the terms that will apply to the termination of your divorce. As such, this legal document allows the court to enforce the terms of the settlement should one party fail to comply with the conditions. For instance, if one spouse fails to fulfill their spousal support obligation, the other spouse can pursue legal action. It’s also important because it’s the official document that proves that your marriage is over. This can be essential for tax reasons, as well as if you want to get remarried at any point in the future. In addition, it allows you to change your name. This is important if you want to ever to your maiden name following your divorce.

As you can see, the importance of a divorce decree cannot be overstated. If you require legal assistance regarding your divorce, it’s in your best interest to contact a skilled lawyer from the Law Office of Eyal Talassazan, P.C., who can help guide you through each phase of this complex matter. Connect with our dedicated legal team today to learn how we can fight for you.