Divorce
Our office would love to assist in making sure that your divorce is being handled in your best interests. To protect us and to protect our clients from being blocked out by spouses, these cases do require some consultation fee that will apply to your attorney fees if hired. Please feel free to contact our office in order to get more information and to set up your initial appointment.
MISSOURI DIVORCE LAW
Missouri divorces are governed by a "no-fault" system, meaning that neither party needs to prove wrongdoing, such as infidelity or abuse, to obtain a divorce. Instead, a spouse must simply demonstrate that the marriage is "irretrievably broken" and cannot be repaired. Missouri courts also require at least one party to have been a state resident for 90 days before filing, and there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. These laws aim to make the divorce process straightforward while still allowing room for negotiation and resolution of issues like property division, child custody, and support.
One unique aspect of Missouri divorce law is its approach to property division. Missouri is an "equitable distribution" state, meaning that marital property is divided in a way that the court deems fair, though not necessarily equal. Factors such as each spouse’s financial situation, contributions to the marriage, and future earning potential are considered when determining how to divide assets and debts. Additionally, Missouri courts prioritize the best interests of the child in custody decisions, taking into account factors like the child’s relationship with each parent, stability, and the parents' ability to cooperate. These elements make it vital to have skilled legal representation to ensure your rights and interests are protected throughout the process.