Legal Definitions - quickie divorce

A "quickie divorce" is a common, informal term used to describe a divorce process that is completed significantly faster than usual. This expedited timeline typically occurs when both spouses agree on all key issues, such as the division of assets and debts, spousal support, and child custody (if applicable), and there are no complex disputes requiring lengthy court proceedings. It is not a formal legal designation but rather a descriptive phrase for a streamlined divorce.

• Example 1: Sarah and Tom were married for 18 months, have no children, and kept their finances entirely separate. When they decided to divorce, they both agreed immediately on all terms, including that neither would seek spousal support and they would each keep their own belongings.

  Explanation: Because there were no children, no shared assets to divide, and complete mutual agreement on all aspects of the separation, their divorce could proceed through the courts very quickly, fitting the description of a "quickie divorce."

• Example 2: Maria and David, after five years of marriage, decided to separate amicably. They had a prenuptial agreement that clearly outlined how their assets, including a jointly owned home, would be divided. They also had no minor children. Both parties signed all necessary paperwork promptly and without dispute.

  Explanation: The existence of a clear prenuptial agreement that resolved potential financial disputes in advance, combined with their mutual cooperation and the absence of child custody issues, allowed their divorce to be processed efficiently by the legal system, making it a "quickie divorce."

• Example 3: In a state that offers a "summary dissolution" or "simplified divorce" procedure for couples who meet specific criteria (e.g., marriage duration under five years, no children, limited assets and debts, mutual consent), Emily and Mark applied for divorce. They met all the requirements for this expedited process.

  Explanation: By qualifying for a simplified legal procedure specifically designed for straightforward cases, Emily and Mark's divorce could be finalized in a much shorter timeframe than a contested or more complex divorce, illustrating the concept of a "quickie divorce."