WHAT ARE THE GROUNDS FOR DISSOLUTION OR LEGAL SEPARATION?
A marriage dissolution or legal separation can be obtained in California only on grounds of irreconcilable differences or incurable insanity. “Irreconcilable Differences”: Generally, a marriage dissolution or legal separation is sought on the ground of “irreconcilable differences, which have caused the irremediable breakdown of the marriage.” The issue of irreconcilable differences is rarely a point of contention. Courts readily accept either spouses belief the marital differences are irreconcilable and thus “substantial reason” for not continuing the marriage. Either partys alleged fault or misconduct may not be invoked to withhold a requested judgment of dissolution. “Incurable insanity”: A spouses “incurable insanity” is the only other ground for marriage dissolution or legal separation.
