Exspouses

An ex-spouse is a person who was legally married but is no longer married due to divorce, dissolution, annulment, or legal separation. The term describes the formal relationship after the end of a marriage. In most jurisdictions, the legal ties that defined the marriage are ended by a divorce decree or similar order, though some financial and parental duties may continue.

Custody, visitation, and child support are often resolved in family court; outcomes depend on the best interests of the child and may be revisited. Spousal support or alimony may be awarded for a limited or indefinite period, depending on laws and the terms of the divorce agreement. Property division typically occurs during the divorce and aims to equitably distribute assets and debts; in community property regimes, assets are split 50/50. Pension rights and retirement plans may be divided through specific orders.

Ex-spouses may legally revert to previous names, if applicable, and may or may not maintain social or financial ties. Remarriage of either party does not restore the old marital status; new marriages can complicate blended families and require updated legal arrangements.

Cultural and legal variations influence how ex-spouses interact and what rights remain after divorce. In some cases, ex-spouses maintain a cooperative parenting relationship; in others, contact is limited. For individuals seeking clarifications on rights and duties, consulting family law resources or a qualified attorney is advised.