A legal document issued by a Louisiana court, this order finalizes the dissolution of a marriage. It outlines the terms of the separation, including but not limited to, property division, spousal support (alimony), child custody arrangements, and child support obligations. As an example, it specifies which parent has primary custody of the children and the amount of monthly child support payments.
The significance of this legal instrument lies in its ability to provide a clear framework for the post-marital lives of the involved parties. It protects the rights and responsibilities of each individual, minimizing future disputes and ensuring compliance with legal stipulations. Historically, such decrees were often simpler, but modern iterations address a wider range of complex financial and familial considerations.