It’s official!  New simplified grounds for divorce for some people go into effect this month.  Prior to October 1, 2015, a couple seeking an absolute divorce would have to prove that they had lived in separate residences, without cohabitation and without interruption for a minimum of 12 months, unless other grounds, such as adultery, applied.  As of today, couples that have no minor children together can obtain an absolute divorce by “mutual consent” provided they have a written agreement resolving alimony and distribution of their property.  Mutual consent grounds do not apply if you have minor children with your spouse or  unresolved issues regarding marital finances and property, so it is still important to talk to a lawyer about what divorce grounds may be applicable based on your specific circumstances.