What is a necessary step in the divorce protocol for Guam?

In the process of divorce in Guam, establishing grounds for the divorce and dividing property are fundamental steps that must be taken to ensure the legal dissolution of marriage is appropriately handled. This aspect of divorce proceedings is crucial as it reflects the legal requirements and considerations necessary for a court to grant a divorce.

Establishing grounds involves identifying the legal reasons for seeking a divorce, as Guam follows specific statutes that outline acceptable grounds, such as irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. The division of property is equally important because Guam is an equitable distribution jurisdiction, meaning that marital assets and debts must be fairly allocated between both parties. This includes recognizing the contributions of each spouse and prioritizing the best interests of any children involved.

While paying divorce fees and seeking counseling certification might be relevant aspects of the divorce process, they do not directly address the need for establishing legitimate grounds and managing the asset distribution, which are central to the court's consideration in divorce cases. Filing a joint agreement also cannot substitute the necessity of specifying legal reasons and addressing property concerns, as the court still looks for compliance with statutory requirements.