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Does Georgia require you to say why you want a divorce?

On Behalf of | Mar 15, 2023 | Divorce

Once you decide to divorce, you need to start figuring out how to get the process started. Until you file a complaint or petition with the court seeking the divorce, the process cannot begin.

While you will have plenty of decisions to make along the way, one you have to make at the beginning is what reason you give for the divorce. Under Georgia law, you have some choices when it comes to giving the court the reasons behind your breakup.

What are the grounds for divorce in Georgia?

The reason or grounds for divorce can fall into one of two categories. The most popular is simply saying that your marriage is over and you cannot fix it. This no-fault path does not point fingers at any one issue.

However, you have the option to give the judge a reason for the divorce. There are 13 grounds for divorce in Georgia to choose from, including:

  • Incarceration
  • Abandonment
  • Adultery
  • Addiction
  • Abuse

Why give a reason for divorce?

Giving the judge a reason for your divorce may provide you with an advantage. However, it is not enough to simply tell the judge the grounds. You need to produce verifiable proof that one of these 13 conditions exists. Otherwise, you will not gain any favor with the court.

Whether you choose to give a reason for your divorce may hinge on whether you can prove it. Before filing, you may want to consult with a professional to understand better what is the better road for you to go.