Persons considering ending their marriage through the divorce process may also consider marriage counseling, legal separation (in states that recognize such a status), annulment (in limited circumstances), and living apart. Each of these alternatives may have financial and other consequences.
In Nebraska, individuals contemplating the end of their marriage have several options to consider. Divorce is the legal dissolution of a marriage by a court, which addresses issues such as property division, child custody, and support. Before filing for divorce, Nebraska requires that at least one spouse must have lived in the state for one year. Marriage counseling is often considered before taking legal steps, as it can help couples resolve issues or confirm the decision to separate. Legal separation is another option recognized in Nebraska, which allows couples to live apart and settle matters like property and custody, without formally ending the marriage. Annulment is a legal procedure that declares a marriage null and void, as if it never existed, but it is only available under specific, limited circumstances, such as fraud, bigamy, or incapacity. Each of these alternatives has different financial and legal consequences, and individuals should consider consulting with an attorney to understand the implications of each choice in their specific situation.