Skilnaður

Skilnaður is the Icelandic term for the legal dissolution of a marriage, commonly translated as divorce. It refers to the end of a marital union as a legally recognized relationship and may also be used to describe the formal separation of spouses under Icelandic law.

In Iceland, skilnaður is administered under family law and handled by district courts. A divorce may be granted on the basis of mutual consent or on petition by one spouse. When both parties agree, and there are no unresolved issues, the process tends to be straightforward; if there are disputes, the court will decide on matters such as custody, residence, and access to children, as well as the division of assets and debts.

Arrangements regarding children aim at the best interests of the child and may include custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and child support. The court also determines the allocation of property and, where appropriate, spousal support. The exact provisions depend on the specifics of the case, including the duration of the marriage, contributions of both spouses, and the needs of any children involved.

On entry of a skilnaður, the parties cease to be married, and remarriage becomes legally possible after dissolution. The divorce may affect inheritance rights and ongoing duties related to the former marriage. Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements can influence the distribution of assets in the event of a divorce. See also: divorce, family law, Icelandic law.