How Long Does a Divorce Take in Missouri

May 5, 2023 Amanda

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Missouri

Grounds for Divorce	Minimum Timeframe	Maximum Timeframe
No-Fault Divorce	30 days	90 days
Uncontested Divorce	30 days	90 days
Contested Divorce	Several months to several years	Depends on the complexity of the case and court’s schedule

Overview of Divorce in Missouri

To file for divorce in Missouri, at least one spouse must have been a resident of the state for 90 days before filing. The petitioner must also provide grounds for the divorce, which can include irreconcilable differences or fault-based reasons like adultery or abandonment. Once filed, there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period before any final judgment can be made.

If both parties agree to all terms of the divorce (property division, child custody and support), then an uncontested divorce can be finalized after the waiting period.
If there are disagreements on any terms of the divorce, it will go through a contested litigation process that could take months or even years to resolve.

Overall, divorces in Missouri typically take between three and six months to complete if they are uncontested. However, every case is unique and may require more time depending on individual circumstances such as property disputes or child custody battles.

Definition of Divorce

During this process, it’s essential to be aware of certain terminology and understand what they mean in order to navigate the divorce proceedings smoothly:

Petitioner: The spouse who files for divorce
Respondent: The other spouse who responds to the divorce petition
Contested Divorce: A type of divorce where spouses cannot agree on all terms of the settlement agreement and must go through litigation with attorneys.
Uncontested Divorce: A type of divorce where both spouses agree on all terms regarding property division, child custody and support without going through litigation.

The definition of these legal terms can vary from state to state so it’s important to consult an attorney or do thorough research before proceeding with a case. Understanding these definitions will help in determining which type of case applies best for each individual situation.

Reasons for Divorce

It’s important to note that while fault-based divorces may provide more leverage when it comes to negotiating terms such as property division or spousal support, proving fault can sometimes be difficult and require additional legal fees. Additionally, these types of cases tend to take longer due to litigation processes involved.

In any case, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help determine which grounds will apply best for each individual situation and guide you through the process accordingly.

Types of Divorce

In addition to these common types of divorce cases in Missouri, there are also alternative dispute resolutions available such as mediation or collaborative law processes which can help couples reach an agreement outside the courtroom setting.

Residency Requirements

Failing to meet these residency requirements can result in delays or even dismissal of the case. It’s important to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help ensure all legal requirements are met and guide you through the process accordingly.

Filing for Divorce in Missouri

Note that if there are disagreements on any terms of the divorce settlement agreement at any point during this process, it will go through contested litigation processes that could take months or even years to resolve. Consulting an experienced family law attorney may help expedite these proceedings while ensuring your rights are protected throughout each step.

Grounds for Divorce

If you’re unsure about which ground applies best to your situation or if you need assistance with proving fault in a case, it’s essential to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through this process. Proving fault can be challenging but also can provide additional leverage when negotiating property division or spousal support terms.

Ultimately, choosing the right grounds for divorce is an important decision as it will determine how your case proceeds. Whether you opt for a no-fault or fault-based divorce depends on various factors such as personal values and beliefs, financial circumstances and relationship dynamics between spouses.

Forms and Documents Required

In addition to these mandatory documents, there may be other forms required depending on individual circumstances such as child support calculations or proposed parenting plans. It’s important to consult with an attorney or research thoroughly to ensure all necessary paperwork is filed correctly.

If you are unsure about which forms are needed, you can visit your local courthouse website or speak with a family law attorney who can guide you through the process. Once all necessary forms have been completed and filed with the court clerk’s office, it’s essential to keep copies of everything for personal records.

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

Once this petition is filed with the court, it will be served to the other spouse along with a summons. The respondent then has 30 days to file an answer either admitting or denying each allegation made in the petition.

If there are no disagreements on all terms regarding property division, child custody and support, then an uncontested divorce can be granted after 30-day waiting period. However, if there are disputes over these issues, litigation may take several months or even years before final judgment can be reached.

Summons

It’s important for respondents to take this notice seriously and respond promptly as failing to do so can result in a default judgment being entered against them. A default judgment means that all terms requested by the petitioner will be granted without any input or negotiation from the respondent.

Confidential Case Filing Information Sheet

One important document to be aware of during the divorce process in Missouri is the Confidential Case Filing Information Sheet. This form is required for all new civil case filings, including divorces, and contains sensitive information about each party involved.

The form includes identifying information such as full legal names, addresses, social security numbers, and birth dates of both parties.
It also asks for detailed information regarding any past or present domestic violence incidents involving either party.

The purpose of this form is to help ensure that sensitive personal data remains confidential throughout the proceedings. It’s crucial to provide accurate and truthful information on this sheet as it could impact how your case proceeds in court. An experienced attorney can guide you through filling out this form correctly and answer any questions you may have regarding its contents.

Filing Fees

The current filing fee for a divorce petition in Missouri is $163.50 as of 2021. Additional court costs could also apply depending on the specifics of each case. For example, if any motions or petitions need to be filed during the proceedings, additional fees will incur.

If finances are an issue, some courts offer financial assistance programs that might reduce or waive these fees altogether.

Serving Divorce Papers

After the petitioner files for divorce, they must serve the respondent with a copy of the divorce papers. This is an important step in the process and must be done correctly to avoid complications later on.

In Missouri, there are several ways to serve divorce papers:

Personal Service: Papers can be served in person by a sheriff’s deputy or private process server. This method ensures that the respondent has received the documents and knows what they need to do next.
Certified Mail: Papers can also be sent through certified mail with return receipt requested. If accepted, this serves as proof that the recipient received them.

If attempts at personal service and certified mail fail, then publication may be used as an alternative way of serving divorce papers. However, this should only be used as a last resort after all other options have been exhausted.

Personal Service

If personal service cannot be completed, there are alternative methods that can be used such as publication in a local newspaper or posting on social media if all other attempts have failed. However, these methods require approval from a judge and may add extra time and costs to the overall proceedings.

Service by Publication

It’s important to note that service by publication should only be used as a last resort when all other methods have been exhausted. An experienced family law attorney can help guide you through this process and ensure that all necessary steps are taken according to Missouri state laws.

Waiver of Service

In Missouri, once the divorce petition is filed and served to the other spouse, they have 30 days to respond. However, if the respondent does not want to contest the divorce or disagrees with any of its terms, they can sign a document known as a “Waiver of Service” which waives their right to be formally served.

By signing this waiver, the respondent acknowledges that they received and reviewed all documents related to the divorce proceedings.
The petitioner can then file for an uncontested divorce after waiting out the mandatory 30-day period.

If both parties agree on all aspects of property division and child custody arrangements, an attorney may recommend pursuing this route since it can save time and money compared to going through contested litigation. It’s important for both spouses to consult with separate attorneys before making any decisions regarding waivers or uncontested divorces in order to protect their legal rights.

Waiting Period for Divorce in Missouri

In Missouri, there is a mandatory waiting period before any final judgment can be made in divorce cases. The waiting period begins on the date the petition for dissolution of marriage is filed with the court.

The length of the waiting period may vary depending on individual circumstances, such as whether children are involved or if there are disagreements about property division or other issues that need to be resolved by the court.

If both parties agree to all terms of the divorce and there are no contested issues, then an uncontested divorce can be finalized after 30 days from filing.
If there are disputes between spouses over various matters like child custody and support, alimony payments, or property distribution during this time frame (or beyond), it may take longer to resolve these conflicts through mediation or litigation which could delay their case further.

Overall, it’s important to understand that every divorce case is unique and will have its own set of challenges and obstacles. It’s best to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can provide guidance throughout this process and ensure you fully understand your legal rights under Missouri law.

Mandatory Waiting Period

Another important aspect to consider when filing for divorce in Missouri is the mandatory waiting period. Once the petition has been filed, there is a 30-day waiting period before any final judgment can be made. This waiting period allows spouses time to reconcile and reconsider their decision.

If both parties agree on all terms of the divorce, then an uncontested divorce can be finalized after this 30-day waiting period. However, if there are disagreements on any terms of the settlement agreement, it will prolong the litigation process even further.

It’s also worth noting that certain circumstances may allow for exceptions to this mandatory waiting period. For example:

If one spouse lives out-of-state
If domestic violence or abuse occurred during marriage
If one spouse has already filed for legal separation

In such cases, it’s best to consult with an attorney who can advise you on whether an exception applies in your specific situation and guide you through the necessary steps accordingly.

Exceptions to Waiting Period

It’s important to note that these exceptions do not apply in every case and eligibility varies depending on individual circumstances. Consulting with an experienced family law attorney can help determine whether any of these exceptions will apply in your situation and guide you through the process accordingly.

Steps to Take During Waiting Period

It’s also important to avoid making any major decisions during this period such as moving out of the marital home or dating someone new. These actions could potentially impact the outcome of your case later on down the line.

The waiting period in Missouri may seem frustrating but it provides spouses with necessary time to properly prepare for their case and make informed decisions regarding their future. By following these steps, individuals can feel more confident and prepared as they navigate through this challenging time in their lives.

Divorce Timeline in Missouri

If it’s an uncontested divorce, here are the remaining steps:

Step 3: Negotiating Terms – Both parties will need to come to an agreement regarding property division, child custody and support, and spousal maintenance if applicable.
Step 4: Finalizing Paperwork – Once both parties agree on all terms, paperwork will need to be signed and submitted to the court for approval.
Step 5: Final Hearing – A final hearing will be scheduled where a judge will review all documents and make sure everything complies with state laws before issuing a final decree of dissolution of marriage.

If it’s a contested divorce, here are some additional steps:

Step 3: Discovery Phase– Attorneys from each side exchange information about finances, assets and other relevant matters that affect settlement decisions.
Step 4 : Mediation – If both sides are willing mediation may occur at this stage wherein they try resolving their differences outside of court through negotiation or third-party mediation service.
Step5 :Trial & Settlement Agreement – If mediation fails, the parties may go to trial where a judge will make decisions regarding property division and child custody.
Step 6: Final Hearing– A final hearing will be scheduled where a judge will review all documents and make sure everything complies with state laws before issuing a final decree of dissolution of marriage.

In conclusion, the length of time it takes for divorce in Missouri can range from three months to several years depending on individual circumstances such as asset division, child custody battles or whether or not there is agreement between both parties.

Uncontested Divorce Timeline

Note that every case may have unique factors that can impact timelines such as disputes over specific issues or delays due to scheduling conflicts with attorneys or judges involved. It’s always best to consult with an attorney who can guide you through your particular situation and help expedite any potential delays in your uncontested divorce proceedings.

Contested Divorce Timeline

The length of time it takes to finalize a contested divorce case varies widely depending on individual circumstances such as complexity of assets involved, level of cooperation between spouses and any necessary involvement from experts like appraisers or accountants. Because each case is unique, it’s difficult to predict exactly how long it will take but most cases tend to take anywhere from several months up-to years.

Factors Affecting Divorce Timeline

In addition to these factors, delays within the court system due to COVID-19 restrictions or other unforeseen circumstances could also extend timelines. It’s important for both parties involved in a divorce case to remain patient as each step of the process is completed thoroughly and accurately.

If you’re considering filing for divorce in Missouri or have questions about an ongoing case, it’s always best to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through every step of the process.

Complex Asset Division

In these cases, it’s important to work with an attorney who has experience in dealing with complex asset division. They can help determine the value of each asset, negotiate terms for distribution, and ensure that all documentation is properly filed.

If one spouse owns a business or professional practice during marriage which has been accumulated due to his/her skills/efforts rather than inherited by gift/devise/descent/abnormality i.e. non-marital property then valuing this interest can become even more complicated since both parties may have contributed in some way to its success.

The complexity of asset division can significantly impact the length of time it takes to finalize a divorce. It’s essential to be patient throughout this process so that all parties involved can reach an agreement that is fair and equitable.

Child Custody and Support

In regards to child support payments in Missouri:

The amount is determined based on both parents’ income as well as expenses related to raising children like daycare or medical costs.
If one parent fails to pay ordered child support, they may face penalties such as wage garnishment or even imprisonment in extreme cases.

An experienced family law attorney can help ensure that any agreements made regarding child custody and support are fair and in line with Missouri laws. They can also provide guidance throughout the process so that parents can focus on their children during this difficult time rather than worrying about legal issues.

Spousal Maintenance

To determine the amount and duration of spousal maintenance payments, courts will consider several factors such as:

The length of the marriage
Each party’s earning capacity and job skills
Standard of living during the marriage
The age and health of each party

If you are considering filing for divorce in Missouri and believe that you may be entitled to receive or required to pay spousal maintenance, it’s important to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help navigate this complex legal issue.

Divorce Process in Missouri

Overall time taken for completion depends largely upon if there is an agreement between spouses regarding terms of separation/divorce.If everything goes smoothly without any disputes,the whole process could take around 3-6 months.However,due to individual circumstances like property disputes or child custody battles,sometimes it can drag on much longer than expected

Discovery Process

The goal of discovery is to collect enough information so that each side has a clear picture of the other’s financial situation and can negotiate accordingly. The process can be time-consuming and costly depending on how much information needs to be collected and reviewed. However, it’s an essential part of any divorce proceeding as it ensures fairness and transparency throughout the entire case.

Mediation and Settlement Negotiations

In cases where mediation does not work or one spouse refuses to participate, settlement negotiations may be attempted. This involves each party’s attorney communicating directly with each other or through written correspondence to attempt to come up with mutually acceptable terms for the divorce settlement.

Settlement negotiations can often lead to favorable results since they avoid costly litigation expenses in court.
However, if an agreement cannot be reached during this process either then more formal methods such as arbitration or trial may need to take place.

Ultimately whether it’s through mediation or settlement negotiations every case has its unique challenges so consulting experienced family law attorneys who specialize in Missouri Divorce Laws should always be considered before starting any legal proceeding.

Trial Process

After all evidence has been presented and closing arguments made, the judge will issue a decision in the form of a written order. This order may include provisions related to child custody and support, spousal maintenance (if applicable), property division and debt allocation.

The length of time it takes to go through trial can vary depending on factors such as court schedules or complexity of issues involved. It’s important for individuals going through divorce proceedings to be patient with this process while working closely with an experienced attorney who can help navigate these complexities effectively.

Final Judgment

It’s important to note that once a final judgment is issued by the court, it is legally binding and cannot be changed unless certain circumstances arise such as new evidence coming to light or significant changes in financial circumstances. It’s crucial for individuals going through divorce proceedings to work with an experienced attorney who can help ensure their rights are protected throughout each step of the process until they receive their final judgement.

Conclusion

If you are considering filing for divorce in Missouri, we strongly recommend consulting an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through each step of the process while protecting your best interests along the way.

Summary of Divorce Process in Missouri

During this time, spouses should keep track of important dates such as deadlines for responding to petitions or attending hearings and work closely with their attorneys throughout every step of the process. This will ensure that all legal requirements are met and that they receive fair treatment under state law when it comes to property division, spousal support and child custody arrangements.

Tips for a Smooth Divorce Process

In addition, seeking therapy or counseling during this time is also recommended to help manage stress and emotions involved in the divorce process. Taking care of yourself physically and mentally will ultimately lead to a better outcome for everyone involved.

Resources for Divorce in Missouri.

In addition to these resources, it’s important to have a strong support system during this difficult time. Whether it’s friends or family members who provide emotional support or professional counselors who offer mental health services, having people you can turn to when things get tough can make all the difference.

FAQ on ‘How Long Does a Divorce Take in Missouri’

Q: What is the minimum waiting period for a divorce in Missouri?

A: In most cases, there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized in Missouri.

Q: Can a divorce be finalized sooner than 30 days?

A: Yes, under certain circumstances, such as if both parties agree on all terms of the divorce and file a joint petition, a divorce can be finalized sooner than 30 days.

Q: What is an uncontested divorce and how long does it take?

A: An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on all terms of the divorce, including division of property and assets, child custody and support, and spousal maintenance. It typically takes less time to finalize an uncontested divorce compared to a contested one.

Q: How long does it take to finalize a contested divorce in Missouri?

A: The length of time it takes to finalize a contested divorce in Missouri varies widely depending on the complexity of issues involved. It could take several months or even years to resolve all disputes through litigation or negotiations.