Divorce is not always a simple process, and one of the first questions people ask is, “How long will it take?” In Missouri, the answer depends on several factors, including the type of divorce and the complexity of the situation. It also depends on whether both parties can reach an agreement on key issues. Here are some general guidelines for Missouri divorce timelines based on different types of cases.

The Missouri Mandatory Waiting Period

Before a divorce can be finalized in Missouri, there is a mandatory waiting period imposed by state law. Under Missouri Revised Statute § 452.320, a divorce cannot be granted until 30 days have passed since the petition was served on the other spouse. This waiting period is a minimum requirement, and no judge can waive it. In practice, many divorces take longer than 30 days to complete, but this law establishes the earliest possible date for finalization.

Uncontested Divorce: 30 to 90 Days

An uncontested divorce is when both parties agree on all major issues related to the divorce, such as property division, debt allocation, spousal support, child custody and child support. Because there is no conflict, the court does not need to decide these cases, so they go through the legal process relatively quickly.

In Columbia and Boone County, an uncontested divorce can usually be finalized within 30 to 90 days after all the necessary paperwork has been filed and the required waiting period has passed. The key documents required for this process include a separation agreement and a parenting plan, if there are minor children involved. Both of these documents must meet the requirements set by Missouri courts.

Even in uncontested cases, minor errors in documentation or incomplete disclosures can lead to delays. Working with a skilled Columbia divorce lawyer helps ensure that the process proceeds as smoothly as possible.

Contested Divorce: 6 Months to Over a Year

When spouses disagree on one or more important issues, such as the marital home, retirement accounts, or child custody arrangements, the situation can become contentious. These types of divorce are typically more complicated and time-consuming than others.

A typical contested divorce in Missouri can take anywhere from 6 months to over a year, depending on various factors such as the complexity of marital assets, the level of conflict between parties involved, and the workload of courts. Divorces involving high-value assets such as business valuations, investment portfolios or real estate can take even longer, sometimes extending to two or more years.

The Missouri courts follow § 452.330 RSMo when dividing marital property. This standard is based on the idea of equitable distribution, which means property is divided fairly, although not necessarily equally. Disputes about what counts as marital or separate property often become significant issues that require the use of discovery, depositions, and even expert testimony to resolve them.

Divorce Involving Children: Additional Timelines Apply

When minor children are involved, Missouri law requires the court to consider their best interests in accordance with § 452.375 RSMo. Parents are required to submit a parenting plan. If they are unable to reach an agreement, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem or order a custody evaluation. This can add weeks or months to the legal process.

Child support is calculated based on the Missouri Form 14 Child Support Amount Calculation Worksheet. Disputes over income, expenses, or parenting time may further extend the proceedings.

Mediation as a Timeline-Saving Option

Missouri courts often encourage, and sometimes require, mediation before a contested divorce goes to trial. Mediation can resolve disputes more quickly than litigation. At Columbia Family Law Group LLC, we have a team that includes a certified mediator who can help both parties reach a mutually agreeable resolution.

Get Clarity on Your Timeline — Call Columbia Family Law Group, LLC

Every divorce is unique. Whether you expect a smooth and uncontested process or a long court battle, our attorneys at Columbia Family Law Group have over 35 years of experience. We serve clients in Columbia and Boone County with personalized strategies, clear communication, and a dedication to protecting their best interests.

Contact us for a consultation to find out exactly what to expect from your divorce process.