Family law
Summary dissolution
Also called simplified dissolution
In California, a shorter, cheaper divorce procedure for couples who qualify: typically a short marriage, no children, few assets and debts, and full agreement. Florida has a similar simplified dissolution.[1][2]
In more detail
In California, all requirements must be met, including a marriage of less than five years, no children together, no real estate, and debt and property under set dollar limits.[1] In Florida, county court judges can hear simplified dissolutions.[2]
Varies by state
Not every state offers it, and eligibility rules differ. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- Uncontested divorceA divorce in which the spouses agree on all the issues, such as property, support and children, so a judge doesn't have to decide them.
- Dissolution of marriageThe legal term in many states, including Florida and California, for divorce: a court judgment ending a marriage.
- Marital settlement agreementA written agreement in which divorcing spouses record how they've settled issues such as property, debts, support and, often, parenting.
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Sources
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MediationList. (2026, October 28). Summary dissolution: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/summary-dissolution/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.