Divorce can be a complicated and emotionally challenging process. One of the most common questions people ask when considering divorce is how long the process will take. In Missouri, the length of a divorce process can vary depending on several factors.
In this post, we will discuss the various factors that can impact the length of a divorce process in Missouri.
The length of a divorce process in Missouri can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of the case, the willingness of the parties to cooperate, and the availability of the Court.
Some divorces may be resolved relatively quickly (especially uncontested matters), while others may take months or even years to resolve.
In Missouri, the law states that a divorce cannot be granted until at least 30 days have passed since the petition for divorce was filed and the other party was served (or the other party signed an Entry of Appearance and Waiver of Service).
One of the most significant factors that can impact the length of a divorce process is the complexity of the case.
If the divorce is straightforward, with no disputes over property, finances, or child custody, it can be resolved relatively quickly.
However, if the case is more complex, with multiple issues to resolve, it can take much longer to resolve. In complex cases, it may be necessary to conduct extensive discovery, including depositions and document production, which can be time-consuming.
In a contested matter, after the petition is filed, the parties must exchange financial information, commonly known as the Statement of Income and Expense and Statement of Property in the St. Louis metro and surrounding areas.
Usually, if not resolved quickly, the parties and attorneys will likely attend a settlement or status conference.
Another factor that can impact the length of a divorce process is the willingness of the parties to cooperate. If both parties are willing to work together to resolve the issues in the divorce, the process can be much faster.
We have created a list of co-parenting tips that can help not only expedite the divorce process but also make life after a divorce easier for both the parents and any children involved.
However, if one or both parties are uncooperative, the case can drag on for months or even years. In some cases, the court may need to intervene to resolve disputes, which can further prolong the process.
Things that can cause a divorce to take longer include:
In other words, the time is greatly impacted by whether you will have a contested divorce or an uncontested divorce.
If the parties are able to reach a settlement, the divorce can be granted relatively quickly so long as 30 days have passed since the other party was served or waived service.
However, if the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the case may proceed to many settlement or status conferences, Motion hearings, and eventually, a trial, which can take years to resolve.
The availability of the court can also impact the length of a divorce process.
In Missouri, there are sometimes delays in scheduling court hearings due to the high volume of cases.
If there are not enough judges available to hear cases, it can take longer to get a hearing scheduled. This can be especially frustrating for parties who are eager to resolve their divorce quickly.
If the parties are able to reach a settlement, the divorce can be granted relatively quickly so long as the 30-day period required has passed. If matters are contested, the divorce process can take anywhere from months to a year.
However, if the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the case may proceed to many settlement or status conferences, Motion hearings, and eventually, a trial, which can take years to resolve.
In conclusion, the length of a divorce process in Missouri can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the willingness of the parties to cooperate, and the availability of the court.
While some divorces can be resolved relatively quickly, others may take months or even years to resolve.
It’s important to work with an experienced family law attorney to understand your options and help ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. If you are considering divorce in Missouri, don’t hesitate to reach out to a family law attorney for assistance.
It’s important to note that every divorce case is unique, and the specific length of the divorce process will depend on the circumstances of your case and the willingness to compromise. If you are going through a divorce in Missouri, it’s a good idea to work with an experienced family law attorney to understand your options and help ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.
If you want to file for divorce, we recommend setting up a free consultation with our divorce attorneys in St. Louis.
