This legislative provision pertains to the dissolution of marriage, specifically addressing the conditions under which a judgment may be granted despite a party’s failure to appear or participate fully in the proceedings. It outlines the requirements for proving service of process and the circumstances under which a default judgment can be entered. For example, if one party properly serves the other with a summons and petition for dissolution, and the served party fails to file a response within the allotted timeframe, the court may proceed to grant a judgment based on the petitioner’s evidence.
Understanding the nuances of this legal principle is vital for ensuring fairness and due process in divorce cases. It provides a mechanism for resolving marital disputes even when one party is uncooperative or unresponsive. Historically, this type of provision evolved to streamline the process and prevent parties from unduly delaying or obstructing the conclusion of a dissolution case. This facilitates a more efficient resolution, allowing individuals to move forward with their lives.