Family Law11 min read
How Does Divorce Work in the United States?
Divorce is governed by state statutory law. All 50 states recognize no-fault divorce, resolving asset division, alimony, child custody, and support.
By David ChenRead Guide
Explore research-backed legal explainers written in plain English, citing official federal statutes and court decisions.
Divorce is governed by state statutory law. All 50 states recognize no-fault divorce, resolving asset division, alimony, child custody, and support.
Family courts award legal and physical custody based strictly on the 'best interests of the child,' evaluating stability, parental bonds, and safety.
Child support is a continuous financial contribution from a non-custodial parent calculated under state guidelines based on income and parenting time.
A prenuptial agreement is a formal contract executed prior to marriage establishing how property, debts, and alimony will be handled upon divorce or death.