How Long Does the Average Divorce Take in Missouri?

How long your divorce will take depends on many factors, but is an important question you likely have. A Missouri divorce is subject to certain waiting periods, but the ultimate length will primarily depend on the type of divorce, complexity of your case, and whether the parties can agree to a reasonable settlement.

At Columbia Family Law Group, LLC, we focus on expediting your divorce while always safeguarding your legal rights. This is a stressful time, but we are here to help guide you through the process. Schedule a meeting to learn more.

Factors Influencing Divorce Duration

How long your Missouri divorce will take typically depends upon:

1. Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce: The most significant factor affecting the duration of a divorce is whether it is contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all major issues such as property division, child custody, and support, can be finalized relatively quickly. On the other hand, a contested divorce, where the parties disagree on key issues, can take much longer due to negotiations, mediation, and possibly a trial.
2. Legal Representation: Having legal representation can streamline the process, but it can also add time if both parties are represented by attorneys who need to coordinate schedules and negotiations.
3. Complexity of Issues: The complexity of the issues involved, such as the division of substantial assets, child custody disputes, or spousal support, can extend the duration of the divorce process.
4. Court Docket: The court’s schedule and the specific county where the divorce is filed can also impact the timeline. Some courts may have backlogs that delay proceedings.

Average Timeline for Divorce in Missouri

There is no set timeline for any divorce, but this may help you get a general idea of how long it will take:

1. Uncontested Divorce: For an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all issues, the process can be relatively quick. The statutory minimum waiting period is 30 days from the date the divorce petition is filed, but in practice, it often takes around 90 days to finalize the divorce.
2. Contested Divorce: In a contested divorce, the timeline can vary significantly. If the parties can eventually reach an agreement through negotiation or mediation, the divorce may take around six months to a year. However, if the case goes to trial, it can take longer, sometimes exceeding a year.
3. Statutory Waiting Period: Missouri law requires a 30-day waiting period from the date the divorce petition is filed before the court can grant the divorce. This waiting period is designed to give couples time to reconsider their decision and attempt reconciliation.

Steps in the Divorce Process That May Affect How Long It Takes

Other steps in the divorce process may also affect how long your case takes, such as, but not limited to:

1. Filing the Petition: The spouse initiating the divorce (the petitioner) files a petition for dissolution of marriage.
2. Serving the Respondent: The respondent (the other spouse) must be formally notified of the divorce petition through a process called “service of process.” 
3. Response Period: The respondent has 30 days to file a written response, call an answer, to the petition. If no response is filed, the divorce may proceed as uncontested.
4. Disclosures and Discovery: Both parties must exchange financial disclosures and complete the discovery process.
5. Negotiation and Mediation: If the parties can agree on all issues, the case is considered uncontested, and the divorce can proceed to finalization. Mediation is often used to facilitate settlements out of court.
6. Court Proceedings: If the parties cannot reach an agreement, the court may hold hearings on temporary orders and other matters while the case is pending. If no settlement is reached, the case may go to trial.

Get Help With Your Missouri Divorce

We know that you are ready to put the divorce process behind you, and we help expedite this stressful time however we can.

You can trust the Missouri divorce attorneys at Columbia Family Law Group, LLC to help.  Contact us today for a consultation of your case.