What is the difference between a Divorce and a Dissolution?
The key difference between a divorce and dissolution is that a divorce may be granted even if one party refuses to cooperate or participate in the proceedings.

Divorce is appropriate for parties who cannot reach an agreement regarding issues of custody, support, property, etc., or have not been in contact for a long period of time. This means that only the filing party (and a witness for the filing party) must be present at the final divorce hearing. As long as the other party was served according to the Ohio Rules of Civil Procedure, the other party does not need to appear at the final hearing in order for the divorce to be granted.

A dissolution is appropriate for parties who are working together to end their marriage and are in agreement on all issues. Both parties are required to sign the dissolution documents, which means each party must actively participate in the process. Both parties must appear at the final hearing or the Court may dismiss the case.

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1. Can I represent myself?
2. Can Court Staff give me legal advice?
3. Can I file my own court papers? If so, how?
4. Does the Court accept commercially prepared forms that can be found on the Internet or at an office supply store?
5. What is the difference between a Divorce and a Dissolution?
6. What is compliance?
7. How long will it take for my Divorce/Dissolution to be finalized?
8. How much does it cost to file?
9. What is the mandatory parenting seminar and how do I sign up?
10. What if I can't afford the filing fee?