Residency Requirements

Before filing for divorce in Missouri, either spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least ninety days.

Grounds

The only basis for divorce in Missouri is an irretrievable breakdown of marriage relationship.

Child Custody

The court will award either joint or sole child custody in accordance with of the best interests of the child. Although joint physical custody of children can also be agreed upon by the parties and gives the parties equal decision-making power, this does not necessarily ensure that both parties will be granted equal time with the child.

Child Support

Missouri’s child support guidelines apply in virtually every case, unless special circumstances are present. The child support calculation takes into consideration the needs of the child, and the parents' ability to pay. Child support payments typically continue through the child’s eighteenth birthday, and may extend through his or her secondary education.

Venue

Either spouse in the county where either spouse resides may initiate dissolution of marriage.

Mediation

If a divorce is pending, either party may file a motion requesting mediation of their disputed issues. The parties may choose to submit any or all of their issues to mediation prior to the initiation of divorce proceedings, in order that they may proceed on an uncontested basis.

Filing Fees

Court filing fees are in addition to the cost of using CompleteCase.com. This cost may vary by county. Please check with your local courthouse to determine the exact amount.