Irreconcilable Differences | Wex | LII / Legal Information Institute

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irreconcilable differences

Irreconcilable differences is a family law concept often cited as the grounds for a no-fault divorce. Irreconcilable differences would be cited when spouses are unable to get along or work together to maintain their marriage, leading to the dissolution of their relationship. State statutes often define irreconcilable differences through incompatibility and irremediable or irretrievable breakdown. Additionally, irreconcilable differences may be determined by a family court to be substantial reasons for discontinuing the marriage and which make it apparent that the marriage should be dissolved, such as in California.

Irreconcilable differences could be based on a lack of communication, differing political views, lack of sexual intimacy, disagreements over finances, or other various factors. Generally, courts do not inquire into what the differences are. Moreover, in some states, like California, both parties do not even need to agree to a divorce premised on irreconcilable differences.

[Last reviewed in November of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team]

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