In the state of Kansas, a bill has gotten a lot of attention in a short amount of time. This bill is regarding the proposition to terminate no-fault divorces in the state. Currently, in Kansas individuals can file for a divorce based on "irreconcilable differences." This is a divorce that does not blame either party for the termination of the marriage, but simply admits that both parties refuse to reconcile with one another and would like to separate as a result.
In Kansas, some authorities believe it should be harder for individuals to file for divorce, and that they should have to prove that one party is at-fault for the accident. This is called an at-fault divorce. About 60 years ago, at-fault divorces were often the only types of divorces available. A filer was required to prove that his or her spouse caused the termination of the marriage. Normally, there were specific grounds which constituted a divorce. For example, if the filer could prove that her husband was unfaithful and committed adultery, or could prove that his wife was convicted of a felony and currently in prison, then that person could accomplish a divorce.
According to a Kansas news source, the bill has sparked concern and outrage. Many Kansas residents have been calling the government to express their opinions about the bill recently. The bill has not even received a number yet. A member of the House Judiciary Committee is responsible for introducing the bill, but says that he did not author it. He submitted it on behalf of a legislator that is not on the committee.
Those who support the bill believe that it will prove that couples need to work at marriage. Others, who do not support the bill, say that Kansas residents should have the right to determine when they want to end relationships. Some say that the bill creates government overreach in this situation. Still, those who support the bill say that the state gives benefits to married couples, such as tax breaks. As a result, couples should not enter into the institution of marriage lightly. This bill, they argue, would keep that from happening.
Some want to know if the bill will actually discourage individuals from seeking divorces. One lawyer in Kansas says that she doesn't believe that this law would discourage divorces at all. Instead, she suggests that the law would only create more litigation and a lot of headaches. Essentially, the law would cause Kansas divorcees to assign blame to a particular spouse in order to prove that the divorce is warranted.
If Kansas couples couldn't agree on who was to blame and why, then they could not get a divorce. This would make the divorce process a lot more complicated in the state, and may discourage some couples from going through the headaches. This would not affect couples that wanted a separation, which does not actually terminate the marriage. If you are a Kansas resident that is considering divorce, you may want to act quickly before this bill becomes a consideration that could affect your rights.
Don't hesitate to call a local lawyer today. Even if you are in another state, a lawyer can assist you in determining whether it is best to file for an at-fault divorce or a no-fault divorce in your specific state. Don't hesitate to call a lawyer and start discussing the nature of your case!