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Differences between spouses in their views, their perception of the world around them or their day-to-day responsibilities often lead to a breakdown in family life and marriage. Divorce is a procedure provided for by Bulgarian law, conducted by a court and ending with a decision that dissolves the civil marriage. Its consequences include determining which parent will exercise parental rights, the use of the family home, a change of surname by the wife or husband (the law also allows a husband to take his wife\u2019s surname), arrangements for personal contact with the children by the parent who does not exercise parental rights, the amount of maintenance and other matters. It is important to note that granting the exercise of parental rights to the mother does not mean that the father has been deprived of those rights. These are distinct legal concepts and should not be confused or treated as identical.<\/p>\n
In a divorce by mutual consent, the spouses must appear at the court hearing so that the court can satisfy itself directly that their mutual consent is serious and unwavering. The applicants must also conclude an agreement covering the matters exhaustively listed by law, including those mentioned above.<\/p>\n
In a divorce based on a breakdown of the marriage, where the spouses disagree on certain issues, they are not required to attend every hearing, although most parties do so to better protect their interests. Witnesses\u2014usually relatives and friends of the family\u2014are called, the parties give explanations, and facts and circumstances of their family life relevant to the disputed matters are examined. The parties may reach a settlement at any stage and submit it to the court for approval. If the court approves it, the proceedings end, the agreement takes effect immediately and has the effect of a court decision. This allows a faster court process and settlement of the spouses\u2019 relations.<\/p>\n
In all cases, it is advisable to consult a divorce lawyer<\/a>, because the procedure is formal and specialised, and legal expertise is particularly important in divorce proceedings.<\/p>\n