There are many debates in the Philippines about making divorce legal in the country. Today, divorce is legal in almost every country except for Malta and the Philippines. However, annulment of marriage is permitted in these two countries. Annulment is a declaration that a marriage is void, though the effects of marriage may still be recognized.

define divorce as the break up or dissolution of wedding vows or the ending of a marriage before the death of either of the couple. It must be certified by a court of law, as a legal action to dissolve the prior legal act of marriage. The terms are also determined by the court, although they may take into consideration contracts signed by both parties before or after their marriage. These are called prenuptial or postnuptial agreements.

When the spouses conflict in the conditions of the divorce, it can lead to costly and taxing court proceedings. More supportive approaches like negotiation and collaborative wedlock termination are recently in use where both parties negotiate with each other terms for mutual acceptance and resolution of conflicts.

There are many reasons for the break up of marriage that are given by the couples. Often blame is placed on the other party and not seen as a mutual cause of the marriage ending. Reasons for the marriage can range from trust, cheating or infidelity, financial, or even abuse. Abuse are always ground for dissolving a marriage whether it be physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.

Sexual incompatibility, financial problems, and falling out of love are other common causes for split up. Incompatibility in beliefs such as religious practices or religious conversion usually makes it impracticable for the couple to come into agreement for many things in life. Another common excuse heard on courts is mental illness.

The affects of divorce on the family should be carefully considered. Research has shown that there are long term affects on all members of the family, especially the children. You can learn more by watching the . These influences range from social to physical, and even mental on the parties. Emotional affects can include depression, sadness, anxiety, and anger which can even lead to violence and suicide.

Marriage dissolution leads to the creation of two separate households, with consequent increased costs in comparison to having one before the separation. So both parties suffer financially. Spousal support or alimony, child custody, child support and distribution of property are just some of the financial considerations.