What Is a Final Judgment of Divorce?

A divorce or family law representative provides counsel to each party.

The final judgment in a divorce is a legally binding, court document that outlines responsibilities of the two parties after termination of their marriage. This document is signed by a judge and serves as the final order for all divorce-related proceedings.

Process

A judge signs the final order for divorce after a marital settlement is reached.

After all marital disputes are mediated during the divorce process, the two parties and their legal representatives sign a settlement agreement. This agreement is presented to the court and once approved by the judge, becomes the final judgment of divorce.

Modifications

Modifications may be related to child custody and support.

Modifications may be made to the final judgment of divorce regarding alimony, division of property, child support and custody. Modifications are filed through issue-specific paperwork filed at the court, and proceedings may take place to consider adjustments to the final order. Appeals can also be filed by either party.

Post-Judgment

Parties must handle property division in compliance with the final order of divorce.

The final judgment provides detailed instructions for how each party handles all aspects of the divorce, and this judgment is binding to each party. If either party does not comply with the final order, future court proceedings may take place. These proceedings may address the non-compliance, and steps may be taken to enforce the final order.

References

• Divorce Support: The Final Judgment
• Divorce Peers: Post-Judgment

Resources

• Attorney Michael Fender: Modification of Final Judgment