Understanding Uncontested Divorce
According to Statista, in 2018, there were approximately three divorces per thousand inhabitants in Missouri. Going through a divorce or legal separation can be an emotional and unsettling experience. Such marriage dissolution can have a significant impact on various aspects of your life, including your family, children, finances, and assets. With lots of misleading information out there, heightened emotions, and the psychological toll, someone going through a divorce can easily make costly mistakes without proper guidance or representation.
If you live in Missouri, and you are considering filing for divorce or if you've just been served with divorce papers, consulting with a knowledgeable Missouri family law attorney is crucial for detailed guidance. At the Doskocil Law Firm, I'm committed to offering experienced legal services and helping clients through the difficult transitions in their lives. I'll be available to review your unique situation, explore your possible legal options, and help you navigate key decisions in your divorce proceedings. As your legal counsel, I'll offer you the comprehensive guidance and advocacy that you need to resolve matters of asset division, alimony, child custody, and support in your uncontested divorce.
At the Doskocil Law Firm, I am proud to serve clients across St. Louis, Missouri, and other surrounding areas.
What is an Uncontested Divorce?
An uncontested divorce can be described as a more peaceful and cheaper divorce in which both spouses mutually agree on the key terms and conditions of the marriage dissolution. In an uncontested divorce, both couples agree to work together to settle matters of property division, alimony, child support, child custody, debt allocation, tax deductions, and parenting time. By doing this, they ultimately avoid conflict and courtroom battles. All terms agreed upon will be filed with a Missouri court for official approval.
Qualifying for an Uncontested Divorce
To file for an uncontested divorce in Missouri, your or your spouse must have been living in the state for at least 90 days prior to filing. In addition, you will be required by the court to provide a legal reason for your divorce. Since Missouri is a "no-fault" divorce state, you can file for divorce on the grounds of "irretrievably broken." That is, your marriage is permanently damaged and there is no way to save it.
What is the Process of an Uncontested Divorce?
To get an uncontested divorce in Missouri, both spouses must be in complete agreement on all marital issues surrounding your case. The two basic ways to obtain an uncontested divorce in Missouri include:
Default Proceeding
A default proceeding involves the spouse requesting for the divorce (petitioner) filing and serving the divorce papers to the other spouse (respondent). The respondent will have a given period of time to file a response. Regardless of the situation, the case will be set for an uncontested final hearing even if the respondent fails to file a response or show up at the hearing.
Joint Petition
Once both spouses are in agreement with the terms and conditions of the divorce, they can file a petition together. This is referred to as a joint petition. A copy of the written agreement must be attached to the petition. Through a joint petition, the couples can proceed to the final hearing while bypassing the rest of the divorce process.
What are the Benefits of an Uncontested Divorce?
Some benefits of an uncontested divorce in Missouri include:
It allows faster resolution
It is less expensive
It helps keep everything private and confidential
It is less stressful
It creates the possibility for forgiveness and healing
It eliminates the possibility of bad blood and allows you to move on quickly
Work With a Skilled Attorney
Filing for an uncontested divorce helps keep things private and ensures that marital issues are resolved more quickly. Regardless, it is important that you protect your rights and your family's best interest. An experienced Missouri family law attorney can offer you the proper guidance you need and help keep the conversation productive.
At the Doskocil Law Firm, I have devoted my career to offering comprehensive guidance to individuals in family law matters, including uncontested divorce, asset division, child custody, support, and alimony. As your legal counsel, I will work diligently with all parties involved and ensure that all relationship differences and divorce issues are resolved quickly and peacefully. I will fight compassionately to protect your rights, your family's best interests, and your future.
Uncontested Divorce Attorney Serving St. Louis, Missouri
If you are considering divorce or already amidst one, call me at the Doskocil Law Firm today to schedule a free one-on-one consultation. I can offer you the comprehensive legal guidance, advocacy, and support you need to navigate key decisions in your uncontested divorce proceedings. I'm proud to serve individuals and families throughout St. Louis, Missouri, and other surrounding communities.