Filing for divorce can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t know where to start. If you live in Joplin, Missouri, or the surrounding areas like Jasper County or Newton County, understanding the divorce process can help you navigate it with confidence. At Flex Legal Group, we assist clients throughout Joplin and nearby cities with divorce, child custody, and family law matters. Whether you need an uncontested divorce or face a contested case, this step-by-step guide will walk you through filing for divorce in Missouri.
Meeting Missouri’s Residency Requirements
Before you file for divorce in Missouri, at least one spouse must meet the residency requirement. The spouse filing for divorce must have lived in Missouri for at least 90 days. Additionally, the divorce must be filed in the county where either spouse currently lives. For residents of Joplin and surrounding Jasper and Newton Counties, this usually means filing in your local circuit court.
Choosing Between Contested and Uncontested Divorce
In Missouri, divorces can be uncontested or contested. An uncontested divorce happens when both spouses agree on important issues such as child custody, spousal support, and division of property. This process is usually faster and less expensive.
A contested divorce, on the other hand, arises when spouses cannot agree on one or more major issues. These cases often require mediation, court hearings, or even a trial. At Flex Legal Group, we guide you through both types of divorce, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.
Preparing and Filing Your Divorce Petition
The first formal step in filing for divorce is submitting a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage at your county circuit court. This petition initiates the case and outlines your requests regarding custody, support, and property division.
You will also need to file summons and financial disclosure documents. Filing fees vary by county but are typically between $120 and $150. If you qualify, you can request a fee waiver to help with these costs.
Serving Divorce Papers
Once your petition is filed, you must legally serve your spouse with the divorce papers. This is usually done by the sheriff’s office or a professional process server to ensure your spouse is formally notified of the case.
Financial Disclosures and Discovery
Missouri law requires both spouses to exchange detailed financial information, including income, debts, assets, and expenses. These disclosures help the court make fair decisions about support and property division.
Finalizing Your Divorce
Your divorce case can be finalized in several ways, depending on your situation:
- If your spouse doesn’t respond, the court may grant a default judgment.
- If you both reach an agreement, you can file a settlement agreement with the court.
- If disagreements remain, your case may go to trial for a judge to decide.
Unlike some states, Missouri does not have a mandatory waiting period, but the divorce process typically takes several months from start to finish.
Common Family Law Issues We Handle
At Flex Legal Group, we assist clients with a range of family law matters, including:
- Child custody and parenting time arrangements
- Child and spousal support
- Division of marital property and debts
- Mediation and settlement negotiations
- Full litigation and courtroom representation
Serving Joplin and Surrounding Communities
We proudly represent clients in Joplin, Webb City, Carl Junction, Neosho, Carthage, and throughout Jasper and Newton Counties. Whether you prefer to meet in person or handle your case remotely, we provide personalized legal services tailored to your needs.
Ready to Start your Case?
If you’re considering filing for divorce in Missouri, it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side. Contact Flex Legal Group today at (417) 317-5405 or visit our website at www.flexlegalgroup.com to request a free consultation. We’ll guide you through the divorce process with clarity and confidence.