What Are Grounds For Divorce in Georgia?

January 18, 2023

What Are Grounds For Divorce in Georgia?

When filing for divorce, you’ll need to identify a reason, or “grounds,” for divorce. As a no-fault state, it isn’t necessary to have grounds to file for divorce, but understanding the process before diving into it can limit disputes and help streamline your divorce.

Learning The Grounds For Divorce

There are 13 grounds for divorce defined in Georgia Code §19-5-3. Most are straightforward, but some of these grounds require more evidence. These grounds are:

Marriage between close relatives: Georgia prohibits marriage between parents, children, or other immediate relatives.
Mental incapacity at the time of the marriage: if one of the spouses is mentally incoherent or incapable of thinking clearly at the time of the marriage.
Impotence at the time of the marriage: if one of the spouses cannot perform sexually.
The marriage was forced, a result of duress, or caused by fraud: one of the spouses was forced into marriage unwillingly.
The wife was carrying another man’s child at the time of the marriage, unbeknownst to the husband.
Incurable mental illness: if one spouse has a history of being institutionalized, and with doctors’ testimony.
Adultery by one of the spouses during the marriage: if one spouse cheats during the marriage.
One spouse deserts the other: if one spouse leaves the marriage for at least a year without contact or support.
One spouse is convicted of a crime of “moral turpitude”: if one spouse has served a sentence of at least two years in prison.
Cruel treatment: if one spouse can prove the other has caused mental or physical abuse.
Habitual drug addiction: heavy drug use without seeking treatment.
Habitual intoxication: heavy alcohol use without seeking treatment.
The marriage is irretrievably broken: spouses agree they can’t get past their concerns.

Types of Divorces

When you’re considering the grounds of divorce, you should also keep in mind if you plan to file for a fault or no-fault divorce.

A no-fault divorce essentially means you and your spouse agree that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” A fault divorce means one of the spouses contests the grounds given in the divorce.

Will Grounds For Divorce Affect the Outcome Of Filing?

When you file for divorce, you’ll list details regarding your desire to end your marriage. There can be some grounds that put one party more at fault than the other for the need to end the union. A judge may determine levels of bias, especially if one spouse’s actions directly hurt the other. This is common with cases of adultery if it led to the end of the marriage.

Being able to identify and prove any grounds that apply to your situation is critical to ensure an advantageous outcome for you.

Turn to a Reliable Georgia Divorce Lawyer

Gentry Law Firm can help you determine the proper grounds to list in your divorce complaint and will help you gather the evidence you need. The team at Gentry Law knows it isn’t a light decision to get a divorce, and they’re ready to assist you in your needs.

Call (770) 425-5573 or use our online contact form to schedule your consultation.

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Understanding Gray Divorce

November 9, 2025

Divorce can be challenging at any age, but when it occurs later in life, it can bring a unique set of emotional and financial considerations. As more couples over 50 choose to part ways, understanding the factors that make these cases distinct is essential for planning the next chapter with clarity and confidence. What Is “Gray Divorce”? The term gray divorce refers to couples who divorce after decades of marriage, often once children are grown or retirement is near. While the reasons for divorce vary — from growing apart to differences in goals, health, or finances — one thing is consistent: these cases often involve complex life circumstances that require thoughtful legal and financial guidance. Key Considerations in Gray Divorce 1. Financial Security and Retirement Assets After years of shared finances, dividing marital assets can be complicated. Retirement accounts, pensions, investment portfolios, and real estate are often central issues in a gray divorce. Ensuring each spouse’s long-term financial stability requires a careful look at income sources, tax implications, and future needs. 2. Health Insurance and Long-Term Care Older couples may face additional concerns about healthcare coverage, especially if one spouse depends on the other’s insurance. Planning for medical expenses and long-term care becomes a crucial part of settlement discussions. 3. Alimony In many gray divorces, one spouse left the workforce to raise a family or support the other’s career. Courts often consider the length of the marriage, earning potential, and financial need when determining alimony — with an emphasis on ensuring fairness and stability in later years. 4. Emotional and Family Dynamics Even when adult children are independent, divorce can have a ripple effect through the family. Adult children may experience divided loyalties, and shared traditions may shift. Counseling and open communication can help families adjust to the new dynamics with compassion. Building a Confident Future While divorce later in life can feel overwhelming, it also offers an opportunity for renewal — a chance to rediscover independence and personal goals. With the right guidance, you can make informed decisions that protect your financial health and emotional well-being. At Gentry Law Firm, our experienced family law team understands the sensitive and complex nature of gray divorce. We’re here to provide trusted solutions and supportive counsel every step of the way. Give us a call to speak about your situation today.

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