A final decree is the signed judgment that resolves the case or the final issues before the court. In Arizona dissolution cases the final decree is the Decree of Dissolution of Marriage which is the order that ends the marriage, divides property and debt, establishes support obligations, and addresses parenting rights and responsibilities.

A decree is final when the judge signs it and it is part of the court file. The Judge will mail the parties of the signed decree or minute entry. From that moment both parties are bound by its terms. Property provisions are generally not modifiable. Support and parenting provisions may be modifiable if the applicable legal standard is later met.

Read the final decree carefully before it is submitted to the judge. Every provision should accurately reflect what was agreed or ordered. Errors in the decree create enforcement problems and may require a motion to clarify or correct.