In Indiana, marital dissolution proceedings operate primarily under a “no-fault” system. This means a party seeking to end a marriage generally needs only demonstrate that the marriage is irretrievably broken, without needing to prove fault or wrongdoing on the part of either spouse. The specific circumstances surrounding the breakdown of the marriage, including acts of marital misconduct, typically do not directly influence the courts decision to grant a divorce. However, certain actions during the marriage can have indirect consequences, particularly concerning the division of assets.
The irreconcilable differences standard streamlines the dissolution process, reducing the adversarial nature often associated with fault-based divorce. Historically, demonstrating fault, such as adultery, was a central component of divorce proceedings, frequently increasing animosity and prolonging litigation. The shift towards a no-fault system in Indiana reflects a broader trend in family law designed to simplify divorce and minimize conflict, allowing parties to move forward more efficiently. Despite the no-fault system, actions during the marriage can influence property division and spousal maintenance awards, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nuances of state law.
