divorced

Divorced describes the status of a person whose marriage has been legally dissolved. It typically means that the couple has obtained a divorce through civil proceedings or a mutual agreement approved by a court, ending their marital obligations and relationships.

In most jurisdictions, divorce results in court orders or decrees that settle matters such as the division of property and debts, alimony or spousal maintenance, and arrangements for any children. Divorces can be granted on various grounds; many places now use no-fault divorce, where neither party must prove wrongdoing, while some jurisdictions still allow fault-based grounds.

Procedures vary but commonly include filing a petition or complaint, serving the spouse, negotiating a settlement or attending mediation, and obtaining a divorce decree. If parties cannot agree, a judge may adjudicate unresolved issues at trial.

Consequences of divorce can include changes in legal status, ownership of assets, potential spousal income support, and custody and support arrangements for children. In many jurisdictions, divorce also allows a change of surname and may affect eligibility for benefits, taxes, and immigration status.

Remarriage is legally permitted after divorce in most countries. Divorce can have social, economic, and emotional impacts on the adults and children involved and may be followed by alignment of new household structures, partnerships, or blended families.

Divorce rates and patterns vary widely across regions and over time, influenced by cultural norms, economic conditions, and laws.