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 Minnesota, dissolution of marriage is indeed another term for divorce. The state allows for both fault and no-fault divorces, but most divorces are no-fault, meaning that the marriage is irretrievably broken without the need to prove wrongdoing by either spouse. Minnesota does not require a period of separation before a divorce can be filed. The process involves filing a petition for dissolution of marriage and can be contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all terms including property division, child custody, and support, can be more straightforward and may not require a court hearing. Minnesota does not have a summary dissolution process like California, but the state does offer a simplified process for couples without minor children, significant assets, or marital property, which is known as a Summary Dissolution. This process is governed by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 518. The statutes related to divorce are primarily found in Minnesota Statutes, Chapters 518-519, which cover marriage dissolution, property division, spousal maintenance, and child custody and support.