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 Oklahoma, individuals contemplating the end of their marriage have several options to consider. Divorce is the formal legal process to dissolve a marriage, but couples may also explore marriage counseling as a way to address issues and potentially reconcile. Legal separation is another option recognized in Oklahoma, 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 from the outset, but it is only available under limited circumstances, such as fraud, bigamy, or a party being underage. Each of these alternatives has distinct financial implications and can affect rights to property, alimony, and child support. It is advisable to consult with an attorney to understand the legal and financial consequences of each option before making a decision.