Ready to start your Missouri divorce? Download the divorce papers checklist and take the first step today.
Get your divorce papersWhat Divorce Papers needs to be valid in Missouri
- One spouse must have lived in Missouri for at least 90 days before filing.
- You must have grounds for divorce, such as irreconcilable differences (the most common) or other statutory grounds.
- If you have children, you must complete a Parenting Plan and Child Support Guidelines worksheet.
- Both spouses must disclose financial information, including income, expenses, assets, and debts.
- You must provide a valid, government-issued photo ID when filing in person.
How to set up a Divorce Papers in Missouri
- Check your eligibility: Verify you meet Missouri's 90-day residency requirement.
- Gather the required forms: You'll need the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, Summons, and other Missouri-specific forms like the Family Court Cover Sheet.
- Fill out the forms accurately: Provide complete information about your marriage, children, and property. For uncontested divorce, you and your spouse may file jointly or one spouse files and the other signs a waiver.
- Have your signature notarized: Missouri requires many divorce documents to be notarized. You can find a notary at your bank, a UPS store, or your local courthouse.
- File with the circuit court: Take your completed divorce papers to the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse reside. Pay the filing fee (see costs below).
- Serve your spouse: If you filed alone, you must officially notify your spouse of the divorce. You can do this by personal service or, if your spouse agrees, they can sign a Waiver of Service.
How much it costs
Filing fees for divorce in Missouri vary by county, typically ranging from $150 to $300. You may also have costs for notarization, obtaining certified copies, and service of process. If you cannot afford the fee, you can apply for a fee waiver with the court.
Before You Begin: Missouri Divorce Papers
Before you start filling out Missouri divorce forms, make sure you meet the state's residency requirements and have the necessary information and documents at hand. This checklist will help you prepare for a smoother filing process.
- Confirm you've lived in Missouri for at least 90 days before filing (residency requirement for divorce).
- Decide on the grounds for divorce: Missouri allows both 'no-fault' (irretrievable breakdown) and 'fault' grounds (e.g., adultery, abandonment), which affect your forms and potential proceedings.
- Gather financial documents: recent tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, retirement account statements, and a list of all assets and debts.
- Prepare information about your marriage: date and place of marriage, names and birthdates of any minor children, and details of any prior court orders (e.g., child support, custody).
- If you and your spouse agree on all terms (uncontested divorce), draft a settlement agreement covering property division, alimony, child custody, and support, and have it notarized.
- Check if your county requires specific forms or local rules: visit the circuit court clerk's website or office in the county where you or your spouse reside to confirm filing fees, accepted forms, and any local procedures.
Questions people ask
Do I need a lawyer to file divorce papers in Missouri?
No, you can file for divorce without a lawyer, especially if your divorce is uncontested and you have no major disputes over property or children. However, it's wise to consult with an attorney if you have complex assets or disagreements.
How long do I have to live in Missouri before filing for divorce?
You or your spouse must have been a resident of Missouri for at least 90 days before filing for divorce in the state.
Are all divorce papers in Missouri required to be notarized?
Many documents, such as the Petition and financial forms, must be signed in the presence of a notary. Check each form's instructions. You can find a notary at most banks or your courthouse.
What is the difference between a contested and uncontested divorce in Missouri?
In an uncontested divorce, you and your spouse agree on all issues (property, child custody, support) and can file simplified paperwork. In a contested divorce, there are disagreements, which may require court hearings and more time.