What is a Decree of Divorce?
A Decree of Divorce, sometimes called a Journal Entry of Divorce, is the final disposition of the case. All issues pertaining to division of property, an assignment of debt, are decided by the judge and generally can not be changed once the Decree is entered. However, issues pertaining to children, such as custody, support, and visitation, are always subject to review and modification by the court following entry of the decree, upon a showing of changed circumstances. Spousal maintenance is also subject to modification (unless the parties have agreed otherwise in writing) although spousal support can never be increased above the initial amount set in the Decree of Divorce, without agreement of both parties. Any reduction in spousal maintenance following entry of the Decree of Divorce can only be done upon a showing of changed circumstances, such as loss of employment or reduction of income by the spouse paying the maintenance, or death or remarriage of the spouse receiving the maintena
