No-fault divorce: why your spouse's bad behavior could be irrelevant

When going through the divorce process, many people dream about airing their spouse's dirty laundry in court. Similarly, some people worry they cannot get a divorce because they don't have "proof" of their spouse's poor behavior. In the end, however, it doesn't matter at all, as California is a "no fault" state when it comes to divorce. California was actually the first state to become a no-fault state back in 1970.

Essentially, in California and many other states, if you want a divorce, you should be able to get one. Thus, any discussion about a spouse's bad behavior is likely irrelevant. While it could become relevant when children are involved or when their bad behavior affected the community finances, activities that simply harmed the relationship would not really have a place in a California court during a divorce proceeding.

So, if you were worried about your lack of "proof" for a divorce, there's no need to worry. But unfortunately, if you were dreaming about proving that your spouse is a rotten person, you'll likely have to rely on the court of public approval instead.