If you are going through a divorce in Missouri, you will need to obtain a divorce decree to finalize the process. A divorce decree is a legal document that outlines the terms of your divorce, including the division of assets and debts, child custody, and parenting schedules. In this article, we will walk you through the steps you need to take to get a Missouri divorce decree.
Step 1: File for Divorce in Missouri
Before you can obtain a divorce decree, you must first file for divorce in Missouri. To do this, you will need to complete a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and file it with the circuit court in the county where you or your spouse lives.
Once you have filed your petition, you will need to serve your spouse with a copy of the petition and a summons. This can be done by a process server or a sheriff’s deputy. Your spouse will then have 30 days to respond to the petition.
Step 2: Reach a Settlement Agreement or Go to Court
After you have filed for divorce, you and your spouse will need to work out the terms of your divorce. This will often involve negotiations between your attorneys or mediation sessions. If you are able to reach a settlement agreement, your divorce decree will reflect the terms of that agreement.
If you and your spouse are unable to reach a settlement, your case will go to trial. At trial, a judge will make decisions about the division of assets and debts, child custody, and parenting schedules.
Step 3: Obtain a Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage
Once you have reached a settlement agreement or the court has made its decisions, you will need to obtain a Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage. This is a legal document that officially ends your marriage and outlines the terms of your divorce.
To obtain a Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage, you will need to prepare a proposed judgment and submit it to the court for approval. If the court approves your proposed judgment, it will be signed and entered into the record. You will then have your divorce decree.
Step 4: File Your Divorce Decree
Once you have your divorce decree, you will need to file it with the circuit court in the county where your divorce was granted. This will ensure that the divorce is officially recorded and that all necessary paperwork is filed with the court.
Conclusion
Getting a Missouri divorce decree can be a complex process, but by following these steps, you can ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible. Remember to work closely with your attorney and to keep track of deadlines and requirements to avoid any unnecessary delays.