Divorce in Missouri: Laws, Requirements, and Process
A complete guide to getting a divorce in Missouri. Covers grounds, residency requirements, property division, alimony, child custody, and what to expect from the process.
Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026Key Takeaways
- Property division: Equitable distribution.
- Residency requirement: 90 days in the state.
- Waiting period: 30 days from filing.
- Filing fee: $150 - $250.
Grounds for Divorce
Missouri allows no-fault divorce. The no-fault ground is: Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
Missouri is a pure no-fault state. No fault-based grounds are available.
Residency Requirements
90 days in the state.
Property Division
Missouri is an equitable distribution state. Missouri follows equitable distribution. Courts divide marital property fairly based on the economic circumstances of each spouse, each party's contribution to the acquisition of marital property, the value of nonmarital property, the conduct of the parties during the marriage, and the custodial arrangements for the children.
Alimony / Spousal Support
Missouri courts may award maintenance (alimony) when a spouse lacks sufficient property to provide for their reasonable needs and is unable to support themselves through employment. Courts consider the financial resources of each party, the time needed for education or training, the standard of living during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, and the ability of the paying spouse to meet both their own needs and those of the requesting spouse.
Child Custody
Missouri courts determine custody based on the best interest of the child. The state encourages frequent and meaningful contact with both parents. Factors include the wishes of the child and parents, the child's need for stability, the interaction and interrelationship of the child with parents and siblings, and any history of domestic violence.
Child Support
Missouri uses the income shares model. Child support is calculated based on both parents' combined adjusted gross incomes, the number of children, and costs for health insurance, childcare, and other extraordinary expenses.
Filing Fee
The filing fee for divorce in Missouri is $150 - $250. Fee waivers may be available for those who cannot afford to pay.
Missouri court divorce resources
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the grounds for divorce in Missouri?
Missouri is a pure no-fault divorce state. The only ground for dissolution of marriage is that the marriage is irretrievably broken with no reasonable likelihood of reconciliation.
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How long do you have to live in Missouri to file for divorce?
At least one spouse must have been a resident of Missouri for at least 90 days before filing the petition for dissolution of marriage.
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How is property divided in a Missouri divorce?
Missouri uses equitable distribution. Courts divide marital property fairly, considering each party's contributions, the economic circumstances of each spouse, and the conduct of the parties during the marriage.
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How long does a divorce take in Missouri?
Missouri has a 30-day waiting period from the date of filing. Uncontested divorces can be finalized in approximately 30 to 90 days. Contested cases may take 6 months to over a year.