If you’re looking into divorce in Ohio, you’ve probably come across the term “dissolution of marriage.” It sounds formal—and it is. It’s the legal way of saying your marriage is coming to a close under the law. But while the language might sound stiff, what you’re going through is very personal. This isn’t just paperwork and procedures. It’s about sorting out your life, your home, your family, and your future. At Mary E. Papcke, Attorney at Law, I’ve worked with clients from Parma, Middleburg Heights, Strongsville, and North Royalton, who are trying to make sense of this major transition. And I’m here to tell you: you don’t have to go through it alone.
In Ohio, there are a few different ways to legally dissolve a marriage. The most common are no-fault divorces—either by mutual consent or based on a separation of at least one year. There’s also the option to file on fault-based grounds, but that’s less common and typically used in situations involving abuse, abandonment, or adultery. Most of the people I work with are either trying to move forward amicably or have been separated for a while and just want to finalize everything legally. If you and your spouse agree on most things—or can get there with some help—this process can go relatively smoothly. And if you can’t agree? That’s when the process becomes contested, which takes more time, more negotiation, and sometimes, court.
Sometimes folks come into my office confused about what they’re even supposed to be asking for. They say things like, “I just want a divorce,” or “I want to be legally separated.” But in Ohio, there’s no legal status called “separated”—you’re either married or you’re not. The dissolution of marriage is what gets you legally unmarried. That distinction matters, especially when it comes to dividing property, ending joint accounts, handling debts, and even filing taxes. I take the time to explain how the process works in everyday language, so you’re not left feeling like you need a law degree just to understand what’s happening in your own case.
The process generally starts when one spouse files a divorce complaint in the county court. After that, there are required waiting periods, depending on the grounds. For example, if you both consent, there’s a 90-day wait after filing before the divorce can be finalized. If only one of you wants the divorce and you’ve been separated for at least a year, you can still move forward under no-fault grounds. During this time, we work on all the details: division of assets, debts, child custody (if applicable), and support. Sometimes we can settle everything through written agreements and never have to step foot in a courtroom. Other times, we end up needing hearings. But either way, I’m with you every step of the way—explaining things clearly, preparing documents, answering your questions, and advocating for you.
This is often one of the more emotional and frustrating parts of dissolving a marriage. What happens to the house? Who keeps the car? What about that joint credit card or the retirement account? In Ohio, we follow the rule of “equitable distribution,” which means property isn’t always split 50/50—it’s split based on what’s fair, which takes a lot of factors into account. I’ve helped clients figure out practical solutions that make sense—not just legally, but financially. My job is to help make sure you’re not left with more than your share of the debt or less than your fair share of the assets.
If you and your spouse have children together, dissolving your marriage also means deciding how you’ll co-parent moving forward. This includes physical custody (where the kids live), legal custody (who makes decisions), and financial support. It’s a lot to work through. Sometimes both parents want what’s best for the kids, but they have very different ideas of what that looks like. I’ve guided many parents through these negotiations, helping them focus on stability, communication, and long-term solutions. And if agreement just isn’t happening? I’ll represent your interests in court while still aiming to minimize stress and conflict for your children.
A lot of people come into this process feeling like they failed. And I get that. Ending a marriage is a big deal. But it’s not a personal failure—it’s a legal step forward when something isn’t working. Life shifts. People change. Relationships that once felt like forever can grow apart. Dissolution of marriage is simply the legal recognition that it’s time for a new beginning. I’ve worked with people who were heartbroken, others who were relieved, and plenty who just felt exhausted. Whatever you’re feeling, it’s valid. And you don’t have to go through the legal maze alone or confused.
You don’t just need someone to file papers. You need someone who listens, who cares, and who’s ready to protect your interests without making the process harder than it has to be. At my firm, I focus on straightforward advice, practical solutions, and real support. Whether your case is uncontested and simple, or complicated with years of shared assets and parental conflict, I’ll meet you where you are. We’ll move at the right pace, stay focused, and aim for the best possible outcome—for your future, your family, and your peace of mind.
If you’re thinking about dissolving your marriage and don’t know where to start—or if you’ve already started and feel overwhelmed—I’m here. I serve individuals and families across Parma, Middleburg Heights, Strongsville, and North Royalton.
Contact Us at bankruptcyanddivorceLaw.com or call (440) 743-7000 to schedule a consultation. You’ve got options. Let’s talk about them.
