What Is An Irreconcilable Difference?

A: When many couples in Washington State file for a no-fault divorce, they list “irreconcilable differences” as the reason for their failed union. But what is an irreconcilable difference? Very simply, an irreconcilable difference is a difference of opinion, values, or lifestyle that cannot be solved through open communication, therapy, or counseling. A couple could have differences of opinion regarding child rearing, money, religion, time management, and even politics, that put a terminal strain on their marriage. These serious differences could have always been present in the marriage or they could have developed over time as each person in the union grew and changed.