North Carolina offers a dissolution of marriage process that does not require proof of wrongdoing by either spouse. This method allows individuals to legally end their marriage based solely on the grounds of living separately and apart for a specified period. An example is when a couple has been living at separate addresses for one year with the intent of remaining separate and distinct from each other permanently; under these circumstances, a divorce can be pursued without alleging fault such as adultery, abandonment, or abuse.
This approach simplifies the legal process and can reduce conflict between divorcing parties. Avoiding the need to prove fault can lower legal costs and shorten the duration of divorce proceedings. Historically, demonstrating fault was a prerequisite for obtaining a divorce, often leading to adversarial court battles and increased emotional distress. This system provides a more streamlined and less contentious alternative, allowing individuals to move forward more efficiently.
