In Arkansas, a dissolution of marriage proceeding initiated without assigning blame to either party is permissible. This approach, available under state law, allows a divorce to proceed based on the assertion that irreconcilable differences have arisen, rendering the marital relationship unsustainable. For example, a couple may cite persistent disagreements and a breakdown in communication as the basis for seeking this type of divorce, without alleging specific misconduct such as adultery or abuse.
The availability of this option simplifies the divorce process, potentially reducing conflict and legal expenses. By removing the need to prove fault, the focus can shift towards resolving practical matters like asset division, child custody, and support. Historically, divorce laws often required proof of wrongdoing, which could lead to adversarial proceedings and prolonged litigation. The introduction of this pathway represents a significant shift towards a more streamlined and less contentious process.
