Irreconcilable differences

States may grant a no-fault divorce for irreconcilable differences, which are disagreements on basic, fundamental issues involving marriage or family, which spouses cannot overcome. The court will also determine if the differences are so great both parties can no longer live together. Irreconcilable differences are referred to as an "irretrievable breakdown" of the marriage in certain states.

Prior to granting a divorce for irreconcilable differences, the court will review several factors including the personality conflicts, financial difficulties, the physical separation, the difference in interests, the presence of distrust and resentment, the amount of conflict, and each spouse's antagonistic feelings toward the other spouse. Common irreconcilable differences include how to rear children, differences in religious ideology and differing political opinions. In most states, spouses will need to agree and consent in writing that their marriage cannot be saved due to irreconcilable differences. Agreeing that a marriage should be dissolved for irreconcilable differences, however, is just the first step. Other issues which will have to be discussed as part of the divorce process include distribution of marital property, child support, and spousal support.