A divorce decree is a legal document signed by the judge that officially terminates the marriage. The divorce decree typically includes the judge’s ruling on all matters related to the marriage and any minor children—including division of marital or community property, payment of marital or community debts, spousal support, child custody, child visitation, child support, any obligation to provide health insurance for minor children, and the payment of extracurricular expenses for minor children.

These determinations or rulings set forth in the divorce decree become legally enforceable obligations when the judge signs the divorce decree—and may be enforced by further legal action in the court if one or both of the former spouses fail to comply with the terms of the divorce decree.

In North Dakota, a divorce decree is the final order of a judge that legally ends a marriage. This document is comprehensive and addresses all pertinent issues arising from the dissolution of the marriage. It includes the division of marital property and debts, alimony (also known as spousal support), and if applicable, matters concerning child custody, visitation rights, child support, health insurance for children, and payment for children's extracurricular activities. Once the judge signs the divorce decree, the terms outlined become enforceable legal obligations. If either party fails to adhere to these terms, the aggrieved party can seek enforcement through the courts. The specifics of the decree are tailored to the circumstances of the divorce case and are guided by North Dakota state statutes, which outline the legal framework for divorce, property division, spousal and child support, and custody issues.