How long does a contested divorce take in Missouri?
between 6 months and 1 year
For a contested Missouri divorce case that goes all the way to trial, not counting post trial motions, appeals, or further proceedings, will often take between 6 months and 1 year, but could easily exceed that time frame depending on the county and the complexity of the case.
Can you get a divorce in Missouri if the other person refuses?
If one spouse refuses to admit that the marriage is irretrievably broken, you can still get a divorce but your situation becomes more complicated. If you are facing either situation, an experienced Missouri divorce lawyer can help.
How much is a contested divorce in Missouri?
To get more specific about cost, the total costs of a contested divorce in Missouri range from $4,000-$29,000, with the average cost at $13,500. This will vary based on if there are assets like a family business or home to divide or problems with custody of children.
What happens if a divorce petition is contested?
A contested divorce is a more complicated procedure and will involve the divorcing couple having to attend court hearings (usually two). If the respondent wants to defend the divorce, they will then have a further month to submit their answer (which is similar to a statement).
Do both parties have to agree to a divorce in Missouri?
Only a judge may grant a divorce. If you and your spouse do not agree on all of the issues in your case, you will have to go to court to have the judge decide those matters.
Do both parties have to agree to divorce in Missouri?
Uncontested Missouri Divorce You must have a total agreement. In this case, both spouses can file a petition together (called a joint petition), part of the necessary Missouri divorce forms, along with a copy of their written agreement.
What happens if spouse does not respond to divorce papers Missouri?
What if the Other Spouse Doesn’t Answer the Petition? If the other spouse doesn’t file an answer, he or she is technically in default. This means that the court could enter a default judgment against your spouse granting the dissolution according to the terms you listed in the petition.
Who keeps the house in a divorce in Missouri?
Who Gets the Marital Home (Real Estate)? With regard to marital real estate, the court will either award the marital home to one of the spouses or order it sold. The division of the marital home (or other real estate) is based upon the division of marital equity in the property.
How long can a contested divorce take?
So in case of divorce by mutual consent, it usually takes 18-24 months. In case of a contested divorce, the period is longer, ranging from three to five years because of complications and possibility that either party can challenge the decision in the High Court and Supreme Court.
Is it better to be the petitioner or the respondent in a divorce?
There is no advantage or disadvantage to being either the petitioner or respondent. They are simply terms to make it easier to refer to each party during the divorce process.
Can text messages be used against you in a divorce?
As a general rule, if you have text messages from your spouse, you can use these as evidence during your divorce.