Dissolution of marriage is generally another term for divorce—but in some states it specifically refers to an uncontested divorce—a no fault divorce with a written separation agreement. And in California, for example, there is a summary dissolution that provides an expedited process under limited circumstances (California Family Code §2400).

The laws regarding various methods for dissolving a marriage are usually located in a state’s statutes—often in the Family Code or Domestic Relations Code.

In California, dissolution of marriage is indeed another term for divorce. The state offers a specific expedited process called 'summary dissolution' under certain conditions as outlined in California Family Code §2400. This process is available to couples who agree on the terms of their separation, have been married for less than five years, have no children together, do not own much property, and do not have substantial joint debts, among other requirements. Summary dissolution is a simpler and quicker way to get divorced for couples who meet all the eligibility criteria. For those who do not qualify for summary dissolution, the regular dissolution process is available, which can be either contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce in California is one where both parties agree on all the terms of the divorce, including property division, spousal support, and child custody and support if applicable. A contested divorce occurs when the parties cannot agree on one or more issues and may require court intervention to resolve these disputes.