1. DIVORCE.
2. Archaic. A divorce-like remedy available when both spouses have signed a separation agreement that deals with (1) the issue of alimony (providing either some or none), and (2) if there are children, the issues of support, custody, and visitation. • Under a dissolution of marriage in this sense, the court is bound by the separation agreement and cannot later modify alimony payments. Courts in jurisdictions where the term has been used in this specific sense traditionally distinguish it from divorce, which was formerly available only on certain grounds and which allowed the court to modify alimony payments.
