Requirements for an Uncontested Divorce in Missouri

To qualify for an uncontested divorce (called “dissolution of marriage”) in Missouri, the following must apply:
 

1. Residency: 

   • At least one spouse must have been a resident of Missouri for at least 90 days before filing.
      

2. Grounds for Divorce 

   • Missouri is a no-fault divorce state. The only ground required is that the marriage is irretrievably broken, meaning there is no reasonable likelihood that the marriage can be preserved.
      

3. Full Agreement:

   To proceed uncontested, both spouses must agree on all major issues, including:

   • Division of property and debts

   • Spousal maintenance (alimony), if any

   • Child custody, visitation, and support (if you have children)

Steps to File for an Uncontested Divorce:

1.  Complete the Required Forms

You will need to complete several forms, which may include:

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

• Statement of Property and Debt

• Statement of Income and Expenses

• Marital Settlement Agreement

• Parenting Plan (if you have children)

• Form 14 Child Support Calculation (if applicable)

• Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage
   

These forms can be obtained from the Missouri Courts website or your local courthouse.​
 

2. File the Forms with the Circuit Court

• File your completed forms with the Circuit Court in the county where either you or your spouse resides.

• Pay the filing fee, which typically ranges from $130 to $225, depending on the county.

• If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may request a fee waiver by filing a Motion and Affidavit in Support of Request to Proceed as a Poor Person.

3. Serve the Other Spouse
After filing, you must serve your spouse with a copy of the divorce petition. This can be done by:

• Sheriff’s service

• Private process server

• Certified mail with return receipt requested

• The cost of service typically ranges from $25 to $50, depending on the method chosen.​

   

4. Attend a Court Hearing (If Required)

• Missouri law requires a 30-day waiting period from the date the petition is filed before a divorce can be finalized.

• After the waiting period, a brief court hearing may be scheduled to review the divorce agreement and ensure all requirements are met.

• If everything is in order, the judge will issue a Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage, finalizing the divorce.