Knight Law Firm | May 29, 2025 | Divorce
If you’re considering a divorce in Louisiana, you may have come across the phrase “irretrievably broken.” But what does that actually mean?
In short, it means the marriage cannot be repaired or saved, and that one or both spouses believe there’s no reasonable chance for reconciliation. Under Louisiana law, this concept plays a role in no-fault divorce cases and can affect how and when a divorce is granted.
No-Fault Divorce in Louisiana
Louisiana allows for both fault and no-fault divorces. A no-fault divorce means you don’t have to prove that your spouse did something wrong, like committing adultery or abuse, that led to the breakdown of your marriage. Instead, you can end your marriage simply because it no longer works.
In these types of cases, courts often use the idea that the marriage is “irretrievably broken” to justify granting the divorce. If one spouse believes the marriage can’t be saved, that is typically enough for the court to move forward with dissolving it.
Separation Period Requirements
In most no-fault cases, even if a marriage is considered irretrievably broken, Louisiana law does not allow for an immediate divorce. The spouses must live separately for a certain amount of time before the divorce can be finalized.
The required separation period depends on the circumstances:
- 180 days if the couple has no minor children together
- 365 days if they do share minor children
During this time, the spouses must live in separate households without resuming the marital relationship. If the required period of separation is completed, the court can grant the divorce without needing further proof that the marriage is broken.
How Fault Grounds Compare
In contrast to no-fault divorces, fault-based divorces require proof of serious misconduct. This might include adultery, physical or sexual abuse, a felony conviction, or abandonment. These cases don’t rely on the idea of the marriage being “irretrievably broken,” because the law recognizes certain behavior as automatic grounds for divorce.
That said, claiming fault can impact other parts of the case, such as spousal support or child custody. However, these cases are often more difficult, time-consuming, and emotionally charged.
Why Courts Use the Term “Irretrievably Broken”
Saying a marriage is “irretrievably broken” helps explain why reconciliation is no longer possible. It’s not about placing blame or airing grievances. Instead, it’s a way to tell the court that the relationship has ended, and neither spouse wants to continue it.
The courts don’t require both spouses to agree on this. If one spouse says the marriage is over and wants a divorce, that’s generally enough, especially if the separation period has passed.
What Happens After the Court Accepts That the Marriage Is Over?
Once the court accepts that the marriage is irretrievably broken and the legal waiting period has been met, the judge can officially grant the divorce.
From there, the court may address additional legal issues like:
- Division of marital property and debts
- Spousal support (also known as alimony)
- Child custody and visitation
- Child support
Even if both spouses agree that the marriage is broken, these other issues may still need to be resolved before the divorce is finalized.
Contact a Louisiana Divorce Lawyer for Help With Your Case
If you believe your marriage is irretrievably broken, know that you have options. Louisiana law provides a path for no-fault divorce, but there are still rules and waiting periods to follow. Speaking with a knowledgeable divorce lawyer can help you understand your rights and what steps to take next.
Contact our North Louisiana Litigation Lawyers at Knight Law Firm for Help Today
For more information, contact our experienced divorce attorneys at Knight Law Firm to schedule a consultation.
We proudly serve Shreveport, Monroe, Ruston, and the surrounding areas of North Louisiana.
Knight Law Firm – Shreveport Office
401 Market Street Suite 1006, Shreveport LA 71101
(318) 323-2213
