Petition
The initial legal document filed to start a divorce case, stating the grounds and relief sought.
Example
She filed the petition for dissolution citing irreconcilable differences.
Canadian Equivalent
In Canada, this is referred to as Application for Divorce / Notice of Family Claim (BC) / Application (Form 8, ON).
Jurisdiction Variations
CALIFORNIA
Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (FL-100)
California uses standardized Judicial Council form FL-100
NEW-YORK
Summons with Notice / Verified Complaint
New York uses 'summons with notice' or 'verified complaint' rather than 'petition'
NEW-JERSEY
Complaint for Divorce
New Jersey uses 'complaint' rather than 'petition'
CONNECTICUT
Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage
Connecticut uses 'complaint'
ILLINOIS
Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
Illinois uses 'petition for dissolution'
Related Terms
respondentpetitionerservice-of-process