Marriage Dissolution / Divorce

Marriage dissolution or divorce requires an understanding of the client's marriage, the family relationships, and the financial intricacies that are a part of the marital relationship. Clients need counsel regarding these complex issues and a strong legal advocate on their behalf through settlement negotiations and, when necessary, litigation.

Minnesota is a no-fault state, which means a couple does not have to prove one party was at fault or did something that has caused the breakdown of the relationship. However, there are decisions that need to be made regarding the division of assets accumulated during the marriage. These assets may include property (house, cabin, land), furniture and other personal property, jewelry, antiques, vehicles (autos, boats, motorcycles), pensions, bank accounts, and businesses. The assets need to be valued and divided in a manner that is fair and equitable to both parties.

There are also decisions to be made regarding spousal maintenance (formerly known as "alimony") and/or educational financial assistance, especially when one spouse may not have worked outside the home during the marriage and is not able to be immediately self-supporting. If the couple has children, there are decisions to be made about legal and physical custody, parenting time, healthcare, insurance, education, religious upbringing, dependency exemptions, and financial support. Business ownership, instances of domestic abuse, and mental health concerns are just a few of the other issues that may complicate a divorce case.

For significant cases, (PDF).

Walling Berg & Debele is committed to providing all resources available to our clients. Our High Conflict Resolution Resources Center provides information and resources specific to the needs of families struggling with divorce, custody issues, parenting time and responsibility issues, child development and mental health services.