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 Mexico, individuals contemplating the end of their marriage have several options to consider. Divorce legally dissolves the marriage and is available on the grounds of incompatibility, among other reasons. Marriage counseling is often considered before taking legal steps, as it may help couples resolve issues and possibly reconcile. Legal separation is another option recognized in New Mexico, which allows couples to live apart and settle issues such as property division and child 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 circumstances, such as fraud, bigamy, or incapacity. Each of these alternatives has different financial implications and legal consequences, such as affecting property rights, spousal support, and child custody arrangements. It is advisable for individuals to consult with an attorney to understand the implications of each option and to determine the best course of action based on their specific circumstances.