“Untying the knot” in Missouri. Keep in mind that legal processes can be complex and may vary based on individual circumstances, so it’s advisable to consult with a qualified attorney for personalized advice:
- Meet Residency Requirements:
- Ensure that you or your spouse meet the residency requirements for filing for divorce in Missouri. Generally, one of you must have been a resident of the state for at least 90 days before filing.
- Grounds for Divorce:
- All divorces in Missouri are no-fault divorces. No-fault divorces can be based on the grounds of irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Certain misconduct may be taken into account by the Court, however, fault does not have to be proved to obtain a divorce.
- Prepare Necessary Documents:
- Complete the necessary divorce forms, which may include the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. You can obtain these forms from the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse resides.
- File the Petition:
- File the completed forms with the circuit court clerk in the appropriate county. Pay the filing fee, which can vary by county.
- Serve the Other Party:
- Serve a copy of the divorce papers to your spouse. This can be done by a sheriff, private process server, or someone over the age of 18 who is not a party to the case.
- Waiting Period:
- Missouri has a waiting period of 30 days after filing before the divorce can be finalized. This waiting period may be waived under certain circumstances.
- Negotiate and Reach Agreement:
- Work with your spouse to reach agreements on issues like property division, child custody, child support, and spousal maintenance. If an agreement is reached, it can be submitted to the court for approval.
- Court Hearing:
- Attend the court hearing where the judge will review the case. If everything is in order, the judge may grant the divorce. There are options to forego the hearing and to electronically be granted the divorce.
- Finalize the Divorce Decree:
- Once the judge signs the divorce decree, the divorce is finalized. Make sure to obtain a copy of the decree for your records.
It’s important to note that legal requirements and processes can change, so it’s crucial to consult with a family law attorney in Missouri to ensure that you navigate the divorce process correctly and address your specific circumstances.
At Raza Family Law Solutions, we practice family law effectively guiding clients through prenuptial and post nuptial agreements, dissolution of marriage, modifications of prior judgments, and resolving child custody disputes. We also help families take a different approach to divorce with mediation and collaborative work. Contact us for a consultation at (314) 408-5957.
