No one makes plans to file for divorce, but it might become an option when there are irreconcilable differences. It’s no news that dissolving a marriage can be pricey. Therefore, divorce costs in Missouri should be your concern as you file for divorce. According to research, the average cost of divorce in Missouri is $13,500. However, this cost depends on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. For an uncontested divorce, everyone is in agreement, and there is no need to negotiate. For a contested divorce requires more time to resolve all pending issues. So, let’s dig deeper to understand the costs of divorce in Missouri.
What is the Actual Cost of Divorce in Missouri?
There are at least 3-5 divorces for every 1,000 people in Missouri every year. The cost of any kind of divorce depends on the type of situation at hand. Also, the cost of a contested divorce differs from an uncontested divorce. When couples file for a divorce, they may decide to choose from these types of divorce in Missouri:
Contested Divorce
In this type of divorce, both parties involved ask the court to make an official verdict on their case. This is because they are unable to agree on issues amicably. These issues may include division of properties, debts, or child support. With this divorce option, you can get legal advice from attorneys to help you understand your rights and process. In addition, the divorce cost depends on the time spent, attorney’s rate, the situation at hand, and other factors. The average cost of contested divorce is $29,000.
Uncontested Divorce
Here, both parties have an agreement on all matters concerning the dissolvement of their marriage. So, the court does nothing aside from processing the divorce paperwork and other necessary documents. This is not an official type of divorce; however, they describe the best ways to handle the divorce process. Uncontested divorce is by far the simplest, quickest, and least expensive type of divorce. This is because both parties themselves handle the case. In addition, the cost of uncontested divorce is $500.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Divorce in Missouri?
There are various factors that make up the average cost of divorce in Missouri. For example, the divorce could be either contested or uncontested. Sometimes, there are children, debts, or properties involved. Other times, it could be the case alimony. These factors combined contribute to the cost of divorce aside from other factors such as lawyer fees.
However, both parties do not need to prove fault to proceed with the divorce. Instead, they have to prove to the court that their marriage is irreversibly broken. The majority of the cost of divorce goes toward paying the attorney representing you. Therefore, it is best to ensure that the whole divorce process goes peacefully and amicably. Below is a detailed list of the factors that affect the cost of filing for divorce in Missouri. The cost of paying the attorney and the divorce paperwork depends on the representation that you require. Most attorneys usually charge per hour, and the longer the divorce settlement, the more expensive it will be.
Things to Note Before Filing for a Divorce in Missouri
Before you begin the divorce process in Missouri, you need to answer some preparatory questions. These answers will help you prepare better and get everything in place.
Do You Meet Missouri’s Requirements for Divorce?
Before getting a divorce in Missouri, you or your partner must be a state resident for at least 90 days. Being a state resident is necessary before you file for divorce papers.
Is There a Legal Reason for my Divorce?
Missouri requires a legal reason for getting a divorce. Missouri’s only legal basis for divorce is that “your marriage is irretrievably broken.” Therefore, the court must find that your marriage is beyond repair during the divorce process.
Conclusion
You don’t have to deal with the divorce process alone because you are scared of the divorce cost. It’s always best that both parties come to an agreement on all issues. Issues such as child support, alimony, house, other assets, etc., can be amicably settled. Uncontested divorce has proven to be the cheapest, less stressful, and quickest way of resolving a divorce. However, if settlement is not possible, you can get a legal representative to help with the process. Dissolving your marriage may impact your life, but you have a choice to have less impact on your wallet.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Filing Fee?
A filing fee is a fee that the court charges for the privileges of accessing the court for the divorce purpose.
- How Long Should I Wait to Finalize a Divorce in Missouri?
The divorce takes about ninety days from the day the petition is filed at a minimum. However, this depends on the county and nature of the divorce.
- What is the Cheapest Way of Divorce in Missouri?
An uncontested divorce is by far the cheapest way to get a divorce in Missouri. In addition, having a settlement agreement makes the divorce process less complicated.
- Can I Get a Free Divorce in Missouri?
Yes! You can get a free divorce in Missouri. For an uncontested divorce, you do not have to hire an attorney.
