GD9 CTW fileÒ Legal 04, Þ A significant increase in the numbers of divorces has affected how divorces are granted. In some states, laws have been adopted in which no fault for the divorce is filed by either party. The court may recognize a mutual agreement by both parties to end the marriage because of irreconcilable differences. The party who asks for the divorce must meet certain residency requirements in the state in which he or she is seeking relief. In addition, the party must have statutory grounds for the action. The legal grounds for divorce vary according to state laws. The statutory grounds may include adultery, cruel and inhuman treatment, habitual alcohol or drug use, insanity, abandonment, or imprisonment. Depending on the state law, the actual procedure for divorce or dissolution of a marriage may vary. The process for civil litigation is followed, beginning with serving a summons and complaint on the defendant. The law firm often hires a process server to personally serve the summons on the defendant. A memorandum of a separation agreement or a complaint is filed with the clerk of the court. An index number that is used on all subsequent papers in the case is assigned by the court clerk. In an uncontested divorce, the defendant will fail to answer the complaint. The attorney for the plaintiff may apply for a judgment by default. In a contested divorce, civil actions continue with depositions, motions, written interrogatories, stipulations between attorneys, and a trial in court.