Arizona Dissolution FAQ — Most Common Questions (2026)

Basics

What is Arizona's official term for divorce? "Dissolution of Marriage." The final order is a "Decree of Dissolution."

How long do I have to live in Arizona before filing? One spouse must have been physically present in Arizona for at least 90 days immediately before filing.

What is the ground for dissolution in Arizona? "Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage." Arizona is no-fault only (for standard marriages). No fault, misconduct, or specific reasons required.

Is there a waiting period? Yes — 60 days from the date the Respondent is served. This period cannot be waived or shortened.

What is a covenant marriage? Arizona recognizes covenant marriages, which have different dissolution rules requiring fault grounds or a 2-year separation. Most Arizona couples did NOT enter a covenant marriage. Check your marriage certificate if unsure.

Forms and Process

What is the Arizona Self-Service Center? selfservecenter.azcourts.gov — a free, state-operated guided interview that generates all your dissolution forms. The best free DIY divorce resource of any state. Start here.

What is a Consent Decree of Dissolution? A complete, signed agreement between both spouses covering property division, debt allocation, spousal maintenance, and (if applicable) legal decision-making and parenting time. Filed with the court after the 60-day period. Judge signs without a hearing for agreed cases.

Do I have to go to court? Usually not for an agreed dissolution with a properly completed Consent Decree. The judge reviews and signs the paperwork.

Children

What happened to "custody" in Arizona? Arizona replaced custody terminology in 2013. The current terms are "legal decision-making authority" (who decides on education, healthcare, religious upbringing) and "parenting time" (the schedule for each parent).

Is joint legal decision-making the default? Courts generally prefer joint legal decision-making unless there is domestic violence, abuse, or inability to cooperate.

Is a parenting class required? Yes. Both parents must complete an approved parenting class before the Decree is entered when minor children are involved.

How is child support calculated? Using the Arizona Child Support Guidelines (Income Shares Model), considering both parents' incomes, number of children, parenting time, health insurance, and childcare costs.

Property

Does Arizona always split property 50/50? For community property (acquired during marriage), yes — equal division is the rule. Courts can deviate only for significant, documented reasons such as dissipation of assets.

Is spousal maintenance "alimony" in Arizona? Arizona uses "spousal maintenance." Courts award it based on statutory factors (ARS §25-319), including inability to be self-sufficient, long marriage duration, and the requesting spouse's contributions.

How do I transfer the house after dissolution? Prepare a Quitclaim Deed, have the transferring spouse sign and notarize it, and record it at the county Recorder's office. The Decree itself does not transfer title.

Cost

How much does Arizona dissolution cost? Filing fee: $338–$364. A simple agreed dissolution with no real estate or retirement accounts typically costs $350–$500 total.

Is there a fee waiver? Yes. Low-income filers can apply for a fee waiver. The Self-Service Center includes the application.

Last reviewed: March 2026 | Arizona Self-Service Center: selfservecenter.azcourts.gov

Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.