10 Arizona Dissolution Mistakes to Avoid (2026)

Arizona's dissolution process is well-supported with the Self-Service Center, but these ten mistakes can still cause serious problems.

Mistake #1 — Not Checking for Covenant Marriage

Arizona covenant marriages have different dissolution rules — fault grounds required, or 2-year separation. Filing a standard dissolution in a covenant marriage is improper.

Fix: Check your marriage certificate. If it says "covenant marriage," seek an attorney consultation before filing.

Mistake #2 — Skipping the Self-Service Center

Many filers download generic blank PDF forms and make errors — using the wrong form version, missing required attachments, or incorrect formatting.

Fix: Start at selfservecenter.azcourts.gov. The generated packet is current, county-specific, and complete.

Mistake #3 — Confusing "60 Days from Filing" with "60 Days from Service"

The 60-day waiting period starts from service date, not filing date. Filers who serve weeks after filing often miscalculate and submit the Consent Decree too early.

Fix: Note the exact service date. Count 60 days from that date.

Mistake #4 — Using "Custody" Language Instead of "Legal Decision-Making Authority"

Arizona courts have used legal decision-making terminology since 2013. Documents using "custody" may be returned or create confusion.

Fix: The Self-Service Center generates correct terminology automatically. If drafting manually, use "legal decision-making authority" and "parenting time."

Mistake #5 — Missing the Parenting Class Requirement

Arizona requires both parents to complete an approved parenting class when minor children are involved. Missing it delays the Decree.

Fix: Register early. Complete the class during the 60-day waiting period.

Mistake #6 — Vague Property Division in the Consent Decree

"Husband gets the car, wife gets the house" is insufficient. Each asset needs specific identification, values, transfer deadlines, and responsibilities.

Fix: Be specific. Include account numbers, vehicle VINs, property legal descriptions, and specific deadlines.

Mistake #7 — Not Recording the Deed at the County Recorder

The Consent Decree doesn't transfer title. A Quitclaim Deed must be prepared, signed, notarized, and recorded at the county Recorder's office.

Fix: Include a deed transfer deadline in the Consent Decree. Execute and record immediately after the Decree is entered.

Mistake #8 — Skipping the QDRO for Retirement Accounts

A Consent Decree that awards your spouse "half of my 401k" is meaningless without a QDRO submitted to the plan administrator.

Fix: Engage a QDRO specialist promptly after the Decree is entered. Plan administrators will not split accounts without a properly approved QDRO.

Mistake #9 — Not Addressing Spousal Maintenance

If one spouse fails to waive spousal maintenance in the Consent Decree, the court may retain jurisdiction to award it later — even after the Decree is entered.

Fix: Either specify maintenance terms (amount + duration) OR include an explicit, clear, written spousal maintenance waiver in the Consent Decree.

Mistake #10 — Missing Disclosure Requirements

Arizona requires financial disclosures (Rule 49 Disclosures) in all family law cases — even agreed ones. Skipping disclosures can expose the Consent Decree to challenge later.

Fix: Complete and exchange Rule 49 financial disclosures before finalizing the Consent Decree. The Self-Service Center prompts you to do this.

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

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