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 New Hampshire, individuals contemplating the end of their marriage have several options to consider. Divorce is the legal process of dissolving a marriage, and New Hampshire allows for no-fault divorce, meaning neither spouse has to prove the other's wrongdoing. Before filing for divorce, the state does not require couples to undergo marriage counseling, but it can be a beneficial step for those who wish to work on their relationship. Legal separation is another option recognized in New Hampshire, which allows couples to live apart and formalize the division of assets and responsibilities without officially 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 coercion. Each of these alternatives—divorce, legal separation, and annulment—can have significant financial implications, as well as impacts on child custody, property division, and other legal matters. Couples may also choose to live apart without any formal legal arrangement, but this may lead to complications, especially regarding financial and parental responsibilities.