In the Commonwealth, dissolution of marriage may be predicated on specific grounds alleging misconduct by one party. These grounds, if proven, allow for a swifter path to legal separation than waiting for the statutory separation period required in no-fault proceedings. Examples of such grounds include adultery, desertion, cruelty, and felony conviction where the spouse is sentenced to confinement for more than one year.
The significance of establishing such grounds lies in potentially expedited timelines and bearing on matters of spousal support. Historically, proving marital misconduct was a primary means of securing a divorce. While no-fault options exist, pursuing a dissolution based on specific allegations can influence the overall outcome, particularly in cases involving egregious behavior or significant financial disparity.