Many events can lead to a Massachusetts couple deciding to end their marriage. Sometimes a couple finds they are constantly having heated arguments about many different topics, while other times a couple finds they simply have grown apart over the years or no longer share the same life goals. Regardless of what lead to the decision to divorce, one of the first steps to take is to file for divorce. And, in that filing the spouse seeking divorce will need to indicate on what grounds they are seeking divorce.

In Massachusetts, there are a number of grounds upon which a couple can base their divorce. Massachusetts, like all other states in the nation, recognizes “no fault” divorce. In Massachusetts, this is called the “irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage. However, there are other specific grounds as well.

A divorce in Massachusetts can sought on grounds of impotency or adultery. In addition, if for the year leading up to the divorce filing, a spouse has committed utter desertion, this can also be grounds for divorce. Voluntary and excessive alcohol use or other drug use can be grounds for divorce. Abusive treatment of one spouse by the other can also be grounds for divorce. If a spouse is able to provide the other spouse with suitable support and maintenance but cruelly refuses or neglects to, that can also be grounds for divorce.

As this shows, while many couples will simply state an irretrievable breakdown as grounds for divorce, there are other options as well. In the end, if a person in Massachusetts is contemplating divorce, it may be a good idea to discuss their situation with an attorney, who can guide a person throughout the divorce process.