Divorce proceedings are the legal steps taken to dissolve a marriage. This process typically begins when one spouse files a petition for divorce in a court, outlining the reasons for the separation and any requests regarding property, custody, or support. The other spouse is then notified and given a chance to respond. During the proceedings, both parties may negotiate terms such as child custody, alimony, and the division of marital property. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial, where a judge will make the final decisions based on the evidence presented.