How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Wichita, KS (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)

Divorcing without a lawyer in Wichita is completely legal — and one of the fastest and most affordable ways for Kansas couples to end their marriage. Kansas allows spouses to represent themselves in divorce cases (“pro se divorce”), and Sedgwick County provides defined procedures for filing, serving, and finalizing an uncontested divorce without hiring an attorney.

This guide walks through every step of the DIY divorce process in Wichita, including the required Kansas forms, filing fees, timelines, and when you may still want legal help.

Can You Really Divorce Without a Lawyer in Wichita, KS?

Yes. You do not need a lawyer to file for divorce in Kansas.

A pro se (self-represented) divorce works best when:

• Your divorce is uncontested

• You and your spouse agree on property, custody, and support

• You want to keep your costs low

• You prefer a simple, guided filing process

• Your financial situation is relatively straightforward

If disagreements arise, you can consult an attorney at any point — but most uncontested divorces in Wichita can be completed without one.

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Wichita — Step by Step

1. Meet Kansas’s Residency Requirement

To file for divorce in Wichita, either spouse must:

• Live in Kansas for at least 60 days before filing

You may file in Sedgwick County if you live in Wichita or elsewhere in the county.

2. Gather Required Kansas Divorce Forms

Kansas does not use one universal divorce packet. Instead, your forms depend on whether children or property are involved.

Common Kansas Divorce Forms

• Petition for Divorce

• Civil Information Sheet

• Summons

• Request for Service or Entry of Appearance/Waiver

• Domestic Relations Affidavit

• Marital Settlement Agreement

• Parenting Plan (if minor children)

• Child Support Worksheet

• Proposed Journal Entry of Judgment (Final Decree)

Sedgwick County May Require Additional Documents

• Case Assignment Information

• Parenting class registration or proof (in some cases)

• Local cover sheets

Divorce.com automatically prepares all required Kansas + Sedgwick County forms for your case.

3. File Your Divorce Forms With the Sedgwick County District Court

Sedgwick County District Court – Family Law Division
525 N. Main St.
Wichita, KS 67203

Filing Fee

• Typically around $195

• Slightly higher for cases involving minor children

A fee waiver may be available if you meet income requirements.

You may file:

• In person

• By mail

• Electronically via Kansas eCourt (in select cases)

4. Serve Your Spouse Properly

If your spouse is cooperative, they may sign:

• Entry of Appearance & Waiver of Service

This eliminates the need for formal service.

Otherwise, service options include:

• Sheriff’s Office

• Private process server

• Certified mail (restricted delivery)

After service, file the Return of Service with the court.

5. Exchange Financial Information

Kansas requires both spouses to complete and exchange:

• Domestic Relations Affidavits

• Income documentation

• Debt and asset details

• Tax returns

• Child-related financial information (if applicable)

These disclosures help create a fair settlement agreement.

6. Create Your Marital Settlement Agreement

Your Marital Settlement Agreement must cover:

• Division of assets

• Allocation of debts

• Legal and physical custody

• Parenting time schedules

• Child support

• Spousal maintenance (alimony), if applicable

• Health insurance and childcare expenses

Divorce.com guides you through creating a complete, Kansas-compliant agreement.

7. Kansas’s Waiting Period (Minimum 60 Days)

Kansas requires a 60-day waiting period after filing your petition before the judge can sign your divorce decree.

A judge may waive the waiting period in limited hardship situations.

8. Attend Your Final Hearing

Most Wichita uncontested divorces require a short court hearing.

Bring:

• Your settlement agreement

• Proposed Journal Entry of Judgment

• Domestic Relations Affidavit

• Parenting Plan & child support documents (if applicable)

• Confirmation of service or waiver

The judge will ask a few simple questions about:

• Residency

• Whether the marriage is irretrievably broken

• Whether your agreement is voluntary and fair

If everything is in order, the judge signs the final decree.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Wichita?

Typical timelines:

• 60-day minimum waiting period

• Most uncontested cases take 2–4 months

• Delays happen if forms are incomplete or service is slow

Wichita is generally one of the faster Kansas districts for uncontested divorces.

How Much Does It Cost to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Wichita?

Most couples pay:

• $195 filing fee

• $0–$100 for service of process

• $0 if you prepare documents yourself

• $499–$1999 using Divorce.com for forms + agreement

Attorney-led divorces in Kansas average $8,000–$18,000+, making DIY divorce the most cost-effective option.

When You Should Still Consider Hiring a Lawyer

You may want legal representation if:

• Domestic violence or safety concerns exist

• A spouse hides assets or income

• You have high-value or complex property

• There are serious custody disputes

• One spouse refuses to cooperate

For low-conflict cases, Wichita couples frequently complete the entire divorce themselves.

Why Wichita Couples Use Divorce.com

Divorce.com helps Kansas couples:

• Prepare all Kansas + Sedgwick County forms

• Build a legally sound settlement agreement

• Navigate service and filing requirements

• Avoid common delays

• Access optional legal support only if needed

It’s the fastest, easiest, and most affordable way to complete a Wichita divorce without a lawyer.

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Wichita, KS is straightforward — especially when both spouses are in agreement. With the correct Kansas forms, a clear settlement agreement, and guided support, you can complete your divorce confidently and cost-effectively.

Divorce.com provides everything you need to file and finalize your Sedgwick County divorce from start to finish.