A semiclassical model is introduced for calculating the differential cross section for the dissociation of a molecule in a long-lived state. The model is based on the idea that the angular distribution is a ''snapshot'' of the excited state wave function, provided that exit channel effects may be neglected. Algebraic expressions are derived for one-and two-photon excitation. The model is compared with velocity-aligned Doppler spectra of Cl atoms produced by the predissociation of various states of HCl. (C) 1997 American Institute of Physics.