Unilateral Divorce 20/02/2025
Divorce is a complex legal matter and when only one spouse seeks to end the marriage, the process becomes even more challenging. Understanding the legal conditions for unilateral divorce is crucial for individuals navigating marital disputes. This article explores the necessary grounds, procedure and implications of unilateral divorce in Vietnam, providing essential insights for those considering this legal action. In case you need advice, please contact Apolo Lawyers , email at contact@apolo.com.vn or hotline: (+84) 903 419 479 for the best advice and support.
A unilateral divorce occurs when one spouse files for divorce without the consent of the other. Under Vietnamese law, this process is governed by the 2014 Law on Marriage and Family. Unlike a mutual consent divorce, where both parties agree to separate, a unilateral divorce requires the petitioner to provide legal grounds proving that the marriage is irretrievably broken.

To file for a unilateral divorce in Vietnam, the petitioner must demonstrate one or more of the following legal grounds:
According to Article 56 of the Law on Marriage and Family, a court may grant a unilateral divorce if one spouse commits serious violations of marital obligations, such as: Domestic violence (physical, mental, or economic abuse); Adultery or infidelity; Neglect or abandonment of family duties.
If the spouses have lived separately for a significant period and there is no chance of reconciliation, the court may approve the divorce. The prolonged separation must be proven with evidence such as residence records, witness statements, or financial records.
If one spouse has been missing for at least two years without any confirmed contact, as stipulated in Article 68 of the Civil Code, the other spouse can file for a unilateral divorce.
If the marriage has broken down beyond repair, with no hope of reconciliation, the court may grant a divorce based on the testimonies and evidence presented by the petitioner.
The petitioner must submit a divorce petition to the People Court in the jurisdiction where the respondent resides. The petition should include:
- Personal details of both spouses.
- Grounds for the divorce.
- Evidence supporting the claim.
- Requests regarding child custody, property division and alimony.
The court will review the case and may require court-ordered mediation to attempt reconciliation. If mediation fails, the case proceeds to trial.
If the court finds sufficient grounds, it will issue a divorce judgment, settling issues such as child custody, division of marital assets, and spousal support.
In a unilateral divorce with child custody disputes, the court prioritizes the child best interests. Factors considered include: The financial capacity of each parent; The emotional and physical well-being of the child; The child own wishes (if they are above 7 years old);
Under Vietnamese marital property laws, assets acquired during the marriage are typically divided equally, unless one spouse proves unequal contributions. The court may consider: Contributions to the household and family income; The care and education of children; Fault in causing the marriage breakdown.
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What Is a Unilateral Divorce Conditions Under Vietnamese
To better understand the cases of unilateral divorces as well as divorce issues. You should find a reputable divorce lawyer to authorize a lawyer. Our company provides fast unilateral divorce services in Ho Chi Minh City such as:
Hopefully, with the information we shared above, Apolo Lawyers has helped you better understand the cases in which a unilateral divorce is not allowed. In order for the divorce to be resolved quickly, the divorce petitioner can conduct the divorce procedures by himself or ask for divorce procedures consulting service. When coming to the divorce procedure consulting service at Apolo Lawyers, with a team of knowledgeable legal consultants, they regularly guide and prepare divorce documents.
Divorce is a quite complicated procedure. If you still have any questions, do not hesitate to contact Apolo Lawyers – Solicitors & Litigators via Hotline: (+84) 903. 419. 479 and email: contact@apolo.com.vn to be supported and helped in the most optimal way.
>>> Read more: Custody of Children Under 36 Months in Divorce Cases and Legal Provisions
>>> Read more: Consensual Divorce In The Absence Of A Spouse
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18/03/2026