The dissolution of marriage in Arizona can proceed under a system where neither party is required to prove fault or misconduct on the part of the other. This approach contrasts with older systems that required evidence of wrongdoing, such as adultery or abandonment, to legally end a marriage. Instead, a decree of dissolution can be granted if the court finds that the marriage is irretrievably broken and that there is no reasonable prospect of reconciliation. For example, spouses who have grown apart and no longer wish to remain married can seek to legally end their relationship without assigning blame.
This method offers several advantages, including a reduction in the adversarial nature of divorce proceedings. By removing the need to prove fault, couples can avoid potentially damaging and emotionally charged accusations, which can contribute to a more amicable separation and reduce the costs associated with litigation. Historically, this shift towards a more streamlined and less confrontational process reflects a societal move towards recognizing the complexities of marital breakdown and prioritizes the well-being of all parties involved, especially children.
