A divorce petition is a legal document filed by one spouse to initiate the process of ending a marriage. This document outlines the reasons for the divorce and may include requests for child custody, division of property, and spousal support. The petition is submitted to a court, which will review it and schedule hearings as necessary. Once the divorce petition is filed, the other spouse is typically served with a copy and given a chance to respond. This response can lead to negotiations or court hearings to resolve any disputes. The entire process aims to reach a fair settlement for both parties involved in the divorce.