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The landscape of divorce and legal separation in the District of Columbia has undergone a significant transformation in 2024. Previously, the law in D.C. mandated a waiting period of at least six (6) months before they could file for divorce.
As of January 26, 2024, a new law known as the “Grounds for Divorce, Legal Separation, and Annulment Amendment Act of 2023” has abolished the waiting period for couples to live separately prior to seeking divorce, legal separation, or annulment. Now, the court may grant a divorce if one or both parties desire to end the marriage. Furthermore, legal separation may be granted if one or both parties express their intention to live separate lives without pursuing a divorce.
Additionally, this legislation introduces further amendments to D.C. domestic relations law. Notably, the court is now mandated to take into account instances of “physical, emotional, or financial abuse by one party against the other” when deciding on alimony awards and the allocation of marital property. This expands the court’s previous scope, which only considered legal findings of “intrafamily offense.”
Lastly, under the new law, the court has the authority to grant exclusive use and possession of the marital home to one party during the litigation process, regardless of that party’s ownership stake in the property.
For men contemplating divorce or legal separation in the District of Columbia, or for those with ongoing divorce proceedings potentially impacted by these changes, we encourage you to reach out to The Fathers Rights Firm.
Jenna J. Moheyer is a seasoned family law attorney specializing in divorce, custody, and support cases in Washington, D.C. For further information, please contact Admin@FathersRightsFirm.com.
This alert serves solely for informational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice.
