Many couples assume that divorce is a complicated and drawn-out legal process. While divorce can be emotionally taxing, it doesn’t always need to take years and multiple back-and-forth negotiations to resolve. Some options allow couples to work through their differences and achieve a favorable result in less time if both parties agree and are willing to compromise to reach agreements about the issues of the divorce.
With the help of an experienced divorce attorney who treats you like family, resolving a Missouri divorce may not take as long as you think.
Understanding Uncontested Divorce in Missouri
Divorce does not always have to end up with a couple facing off in a courtroom. When spouses are generally on the same page regarding the terms of their divorce, they can opt for an uncontested divorce. In an uncontested divorce, partners come to an amicable arrangement concerning property and asset division, spousal maintenance, child custody, and child support.
There are several benefits of working towards an uncontested divorce. It is often a less expensive and less stressful way for couples to resolve their differences and move forward with their lives. It can also take much less time to achieve than a divorce where the parties require the court to decide outstanding issues for them.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Uncontested Divorce in Missouri?
One of the most significant benefits of pursuing an uncontested divorce is that the process is faster than a contested divorce, where couples must take their case to court. The exact time frame for resolving an uncontested divorce varies. However, depending on the situation’s circumstances and the timing of the legal filing, some couples can achieve an uncontested divorce in about a month.
Once the petitioning party serves divorce papers on the other spouse, the person who’s been served has 30 days to respond to the summons. Next, the court will set a divorce court date. If the judge signs off on the divorce documents at the court date, the divorce becomes final 30 days later.
For most couples, especially those who need to take some time in mediation to hash out the details of their divorce, an uncontested divorce in Missouri can take three to six months to complete.
Mediation is a process in which a neutral third party fosters communication between partners to help them reach an amicable agreement on divorce terms like property division, child support, and child custody.
While most uncontested divorces take a maximum of six months to settle, a contested divorce can take several months to years. When both parties agree, resolving a divorce in Missouri can be a relatively quick and smooth process.
An Experienced Missouri Divorce Attorney Can Help
You and your spouse may agree on the divorce terms, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need legal representation. At the Law Office of Amy L. Gervich, our compassionate legal team will advocate for you, working to get the result you want from your divorce. We can guide you through the process and start to finish with as little stress as possible.
Contact our office today and schedule a confidential case review to discuss your situation.
