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Dating During Divorce in Missouri: Legal Implications
Understanding Missouri's Legal Position on Dating During Divorce
Missouri Divorce Law Overview
Missouri is a no-fault state: the only ground for dissolution is that the marriage is irretrievably broken. If one spouse denies that under oath, the other must show certain facts, which can include adultery, behavior, abandonment, or a period of living apart.
Adultery isn't a separate ground in Missouri, but it can be one of the facts used to show the marriage is broken. Missouri courts can also consider the conduct of the spouses during the marriage when deciding maintenance and dividing property.
Separation vs. a Final Decree
In Missouri, spouses remain legally married until a court enters a final divorce decree. Living apart, or having filed for divorce, does not by itself change that status.
That is why a new relationship that begins during separation can still come up in a Missouri divorce case, depending on the issues involved.
Missouri as an Equitable Distribution State
Missouri divides marital property equitably (fairly, not necessarily equally), and the conduct of the spouses during the marriage is one of the factors courts consider.
How Dating Can Matter in a Missouri Divorce
1. Spousal Support (Alimony)
Missouri courts may consider the conduct of both spouses during the marriage when deciding spousal maintenance (alimony), so adultery can be a factor.
When modifying maintenance, Missouri courts consider whether the recipient's expenses are, or should be, shared by someone they live with. Cohabitation can support a change, but it doesn't automatically end maintenance.
2. Child Custody and Parenting Time
Missouri courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child. A parent's new relationship generally matters only to the extent it affects the children.
Issues courts may look at include:
Whether children have been introduced to a new partner, and how
How a new relationship affects the stability of the children's home
A new partner's background and behavior around the children
Whether a parent continues to meet the children's day-to-day needs
3. Property Division
Missouri divides marital property equitably (fairly, not necessarily equally), and the conduct of the spouses during the marriage is one of the factors courts consider.
Separately from fault, spending shared marital money on a new partner (gifts, trips, hotels) can be raised as "dissipation" or waste of marital assets, and a Missouri court may take it into account when dividing property.
4. The Divorce Timeline
A new relationship can raise emotions and make agreement harder to reach. When spouses disagree, cases can involve more discovery, more hearings, and more time and cost.
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
When Dating Can Still Affect a Missouri Divorce
Your Legal Status
Until a Missouri court enters the final divorce decree, you are still legally married, no matter how long you and your spouse have lived apart.
How Timing Can Matter
Before filing, while separated: A relationship that began before or during separation may be raised later, depending on how Missouri treats fault and misconduct.
After filing, before the decree: This is when issues like support, custody, and property are actively being decided, so a new relationship is more likely to come up.
After the final decree: The divorce itself is complete. Some issues, like spousal support or parenting arrangements, can still be affected by a later relationship (see below).
Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce
In an uncontested divorce, spouses have agreed on the terms, so there are fewer decisions left for a judge. In a contested divorce, more issues are in dispute, and a new relationship has more opportunities to become part of the case.
This page is general information, not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a licensed Missouri family law attorney.
Common Considerations When Dating During a Missouri Divorce
People who date before their Missouri divorce is final often think about a few practical issues:
1. Privacy and Social Media
Social media posts, photos, and messages can be used as evidence in divorce cases. Many people choose to keep new relationships private while their case is open.
2. Children
Courts focus on stability for children. Many parents introduce a new partner gradually, and some parenting plans include terms about when new partners may be around the children.
3. Finances
Using marital funds or joint credit cards on a new partner can be raised as waste of marital assets. Keeping relationship spending separate from marital money avoids that question.
4. Testimony
Anyone who testifies in a deposition or in court is required to answer truthfully under oath.
5. Legal Advice
How dating might affect your own case depends on your facts and on Missouri law. A licensed Missouri family law attorney can advise on your situation.
Special Considerations for Missouri
Cohabitation and Spousal Support in Missouri
When modifying maintenance, Missouri courts consider whether the recipient's expenses are, or should be, shared by someone they live with. Cohabitation can support a change, but it doesn't automatically end maintenance.
Parenting Plan Provisions
Some parenting plans include provisions about new partners, such as limits on overnight guests while the children are present or timing for introducing a new partner. These terms are negotiated between parents or ordered by a court, and they vary from case to case.
Finding Legal Help
The Missouri Bar offers resources for finding a licensed attorney in Missouri.
Upfront pricing at a fraction of the cost of traditional divorce
Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.
Situations That Often Increase Conflict in a Missouri Divorce
Some dating situations tend to make divorces more contentious, and more expensive:
1. Dating a Spouse's Friend or Relative
This often raises questions about when the relationship began and can make agreement much harder.
2. Moving a New Partner Into the Marital Home
This can complicate decisions about the home, especially if the other spouse helps pay for it or children live there.
3. A Pregnancy During the Divorce
A pregnancy while the divorce is pending can add issues involving parentage, custody, and support.
4. Making the Relationship Public
Public posts and appearances can heighten emotions and become evidence in the case.
5. Introducing Children to Multiple Partners
Courts consider children's stability, and repeated introductions to new partners can come up in custody decisions.
6. Spending Marital Money on a New Partner
Significant spending of marital funds on a new partner may be treated as waste of marital assets in a Missouri property division.
If Your Spouse Is Dating During a Missouri Divorce
How It May Matter in Missouri
Missouri courts may consider the conduct of both spouses during the marriage when deciding spousal maintenance (alimony), so adultery can be a factor.
For custody, Missouri courts look at whether the relationship affects the children's best interests, not at the relationship itself.
Evidence and Privacy Laws
Information that's publicly available, like social media posts, is commonly used in divorce cases. Accessing another person's accounts without permission, or recording conversations, may violate state or federal law.
Children
If a parent is concerned about how a new partner is affecting the children, courts can consider parenting plan provisions, and in some cases a custody evaluation.
This page is general information, not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a licensed Missouri family law attorney.
Life After Divorce: Dating After Your Missouri Decree
Once your Missouri divorce decree is final, a new relationship no longer affects the divorce itself. A few things can still matter:
Spousal Support After the Divorce
When modifying maintenance, Missouri courts consider whether the recipient's expenses are, or should be, shared by someone they live with. Cohabitation can support a change, but it doesn't automatically end maintenance.
Parenting Plan Terms
Any provisions in your parenting plan about new partners or overnight guests stay in effect after the divorce and can be enforced by the court.
Children's Adjustment
Children often need time to adjust to the divorce itself. Many family therapists suggest introducing a new partner gradually, once the relationship is stable.
We've helped with
over 1 million divorces
We provide everything you need to get divorced — from conflict resolution to filing support and access to divorce experts — in one comprehensive, convenient online platform.
The team at divorce.com was responsive and helpful during a difficult process. I would highly recommend the site for uncomplicated, amicable divorces!!
Jen B.
I came across this online. So I checked on it. It was easy and affordable. I wish I would have found this years ago.
Brandy D.
I was able to read it easily. Thanks God for this service. I will recommend it to anyone who asks this is a very easy step to do. I love it please try it you won't be disappointed
Dianna R.
Great customer service. Questions were easy to answer and had descriptions to understand the questions.
Andelain R.
Proudly featured in these publications
Frequently Asked Questions About Dating During Divorce in Missouri
Is dating during separation considered adultery in Missouri?
Dating by itself generally isn't adultery. Adultery usually refers to a sexual relationship with someone other than your spouse, and in Missouri you remain married until the final decree. Adultery isn't a separate ground in Missouri, but it can be one of the facts used to show the marriage is broken. Missouri courts can also consider the conduct of the spouses during the marriage when deciding maintenance and dividing property.
Can my spouse use dating as grounds for divorce in Missouri?
Missouri is a no-fault state: the only ground for dissolution is that the marriage is irretrievably broken. If one spouse denies that under oath, the other must show certain facts, which can include adultery, behavior, abandonment, or a period of living apart.
Can dating affect spousal support in Missouri?
Missouri courts may consider the conduct of both spouses during the marriage when deciding spousal maintenance (alimony), so adultery can be a factor. When modifying maintenance, Missouri courts consider whether the recipient's expenses are, or should be, shared by someone they live with. Cohabitation can support a change, but it doesn't automatically end maintenance.
Can dating during divorce affect custody in Missouri?
Missouri courts decide custody based on the children's best interests. A new relationship generally matters only if it affects the children, for example how and when they are introduced to a new partner, or the partner's behavior around them.
Does an agreement with my spouse that we can both date protect me?
Not necessarily. Private agreements between spouses do not control how a Missouri court decides support or custody, and either spouse can raise the issue later.
Is it different if we have been separated for a long time in Missouri?
Your legal status is the same: you remain married until the final decree. How much a relationship that begins during a long separation matters depends on how Missouri treats the specific issues in your case.
How does Missouri's property law treat dating during divorce?
Missouri divides marital property equitably (fairly, not necessarily equally), and the conduct of the spouses during the marriage is one of the factors courts consider. Spending marital money on a new partner can be raised separately as waste of marital assets.
Where can I get advice about my situation in Missouri?
A licensed Missouri family law attorney can advise on your specific situation. The Missouri Bar offers resources for finding one.
Related Guides
Our Services
Paperwork Only
Basic access to divorce paperwork where you handle the rigorous filing process with the court.
POPULAR
We File For You
Our most popular package includes a dedicated case manager, automated court filing, spouse signature collection, and personalized documentation.
Fully Guided
Complete divorce support including mediation sessions, dedicated case management, court filing, and personalized documentation.
State Divorce Guides
City Divorce Guides
How Much Does Divorce Cost in Columbia, MO? | 2026 Price Guide
How Much Does Divorce Cost in Kansas City, MO (2026) | Filing Fees & Attorney Rates
Springfield, MO Divorce Cost: 2026 Price Breakdown
How Much Does Divorce Cost in St. Louis, MO (2026) | Filing Fees & Attorney Rates
County Divorce Guides
Real Answers. Real Support.
We're here to guide you through every step of divorce — whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step. Our blog offers expert insights, practical tips, and real-life stories to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
The better way to get divorced.
Answer a few questions to see your personalized divorce options in under 3 minutes.
Dating During Divorce in Missouri: Legal Implications
Understanding Missouri's Legal Position on Dating During Divorce
Missouri Divorce Law Overview
Missouri is a no-fault state: the only ground for dissolution is that the marriage is irretrievably broken. If one spouse denies that under oath, the other must show certain facts, which can include adultery, behavior, abandonment, or a period of living apart.
Adultery isn't a separate ground in Missouri, but it can be one of the facts used to show the marriage is broken. Missouri courts can also consider the conduct of the spouses during the marriage when deciding maintenance and dividing property.
Separation vs. a Final Decree
In Missouri, spouses remain legally married until a court enters a final divorce decree. Living apart, or having filed for divorce, does not by itself change that status.
That is why a new relationship that begins during separation can still come up in a Missouri divorce case, depending on the issues involved.
Missouri as an Equitable Distribution State
Missouri divides marital property equitably (fairly, not necessarily equally), and the conduct of the spouses during the marriage is one of the factors courts consider.
How Dating Can Matter in a Missouri Divorce
1. Spousal Support (Alimony)
Missouri courts may consider the conduct of both spouses during the marriage when deciding spousal maintenance (alimony), so adultery can be a factor.
When modifying maintenance, Missouri courts consider whether the recipient's expenses are, or should be, shared by someone they live with. Cohabitation can support a change, but it doesn't automatically end maintenance.
2. Child Custody and Parenting Time
Missouri courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child. A parent's new relationship generally matters only to the extent it affects the children.
Issues courts may look at include:
Whether children have been introduced to a new partner, and how
How a new relationship affects the stability of the children's home
A new partner's background and behavior around the children
Whether a parent continues to meet the children's day-to-day needs
3. Property Division
Missouri divides marital property equitably (fairly, not necessarily equally), and the conduct of the spouses during the marriage is one of the factors courts consider.
Separately from fault, spending shared marital money on a new partner (gifts, trips, hotels) can be raised as "dissipation" or waste of marital assets, and a Missouri court may take it into account when dividing property.
4. The Divorce Timeline
A new relationship can raise emotions and make agreement harder to reach. When spouses disagree, cases can involve more discovery, more hearings, and more time and cost.
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
RETAINER FEE
PETITION
COURT FILING FEE
SUMMONS
AFFIDAVIT
MOTIONS
ARGUMENTS
TEMPORARY ORDERS
HEARINGS
SUBPOENAS
DEPOSITIONS
SETTLEMENT
CONFERENCES
JUDGEMENT
TRIAL
APPEALS
When Dating Can Still Affect a Missouri Divorce
Your Legal Status
Until a Missouri court enters the final divorce decree, you are still legally married, no matter how long you and your spouse have lived apart.
How Timing Can Matter
Before filing, while separated: A relationship that began before or during separation may be raised later, depending on how Missouri treats fault and misconduct.
After filing, before the decree: This is when issues like support, custody, and property are actively being decided, so a new relationship is more likely to come up.
After the final decree: The divorce itself is complete. Some issues, like spousal support or parenting arrangements, can still be affected by a later relationship (see below).
Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce
In an uncontested divorce, spouses have agreed on the terms, so there are fewer decisions left for a judge. In a contested divorce, more issues are in dispute, and a new relationship has more opportunities to become part of the case.
This page is general information, not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a licensed Missouri family law attorney.
Common Considerations When Dating During a Missouri Divorce
People who date before their Missouri divorce is final often think about a few practical issues:
1. Privacy and Social Media
Social media posts, photos, and messages can be used as evidence in divorce cases. Many people choose to keep new relationships private while their case is open.
2. Children
Courts focus on stability for children. Many parents introduce a new partner gradually, and some parenting plans include terms about when new partners may be around the children.
3. Finances
Using marital funds or joint credit cards on a new partner can be raised as waste of marital assets. Keeping relationship spending separate from marital money avoids that question.
4. Testimony
Anyone who testifies in a deposition or in court is required to answer truthfully under oath.
5. Legal Advice
How dating might affect your own case depends on your facts and on Missouri law. A licensed Missouri family law attorney can advise on your situation.
Special Considerations for Missouri
Cohabitation and Spousal Support in Missouri
When modifying maintenance, Missouri courts consider whether the recipient's expenses are, or should be, shared by someone they live with. Cohabitation can support a change, but it doesn't automatically end maintenance.
Parenting Plan Provisions
Some parenting plans include provisions about new partners, such as limits on overnight guests while the children are present or timing for introducing a new partner. These terms are negotiated between parents or ordered by a court, and they vary from case to case.
Finding Legal Help
The Missouri Bar offers resources for finding a licensed attorney in Missouri.
Upfront pricing at a fraction of the cost of traditional divorce
Divorce doesn’t have to cost as much as a car.
Situations That Often Increase Conflict in a Missouri Divorce
Some dating situations tend to make divorces more contentious, and more expensive:
1. Dating a Spouse's Friend or Relative
This often raises questions about when the relationship began and can make agreement much harder.
2. Moving a New Partner Into the Marital Home
This can complicate decisions about the home, especially if the other spouse helps pay for it or children live there.
3. A Pregnancy During the Divorce
A pregnancy while the divorce is pending can add issues involving parentage, custody, and support.
4. Making the Relationship Public
Public posts and appearances can heighten emotions and become evidence in the case.
5. Introducing Children to Multiple Partners
Courts consider children's stability, and repeated introductions to new partners can come up in custody decisions.
6. Spending Marital Money on a New Partner
Significant spending of marital funds on a new partner may be treated as waste of marital assets in a Missouri property division.
If Your Spouse Is Dating During a Missouri Divorce
How It May Matter in Missouri
Missouri courts may consider the conduct of both spouses during the marriage when deciding spousal maintenance (alimony), so adultery can be a factor.
For custody, Missouri courts look at whether the relationship affects the children's best interests, not at the relationship itself.
Evidence and Privacy Laws
Information that's publicly available, like social media posts, is commonly used in divorce cases. Accessing another person's accounts without permission, or recording conversations, may violate state or federal law.
Children
If a parent is concerned about how a new partner is affecting the children, courts can consider parenting plan provisions, and in some cases a custody evaluation.
This page is general information, not legal advice. For advice on your specific situation, consult a licensed Missouri family law attorney.
Life After Divorce: Dating After Your Missouri Decree
Once your Missouri divorce decree is final, a new relationship no longer affects the divorce itself. A few things can still matter:
Spousal Support After the Divorce
When modifying maintenance, Missouri courts consider whether the recipient's expenses are, or should be, shared by someone they live with. Cohabitation can support a change, but it doesn't automatically end maintenance.
Parenting Plan Terms
Any provisions in your parenting plan about new partners or overnight guests stay in effect after the divorce and can be enforced by the court.
Children's Adjustment
Children often need time to adjust to the divorce itself. Many family therapists suggest introducing a new partner gradually, once the relationship is stable.
We've helped with
over 1 million divorces
We provide everything you need to get divorced — from conflict resolution to filing support and access to divorce experts — in one comprehensive, convenient online platform.
The team at divorce.com was responsive and helpful during a difficult process. I would highly recommend the site for uncomplicated, amicable divorces!!
Jen B.
I came across this online. So I checked on it. It was easy and affordable. I wish I would have found this years ago.
Brandy D.
I was able to read it easily. Thanks God for this service. I will recommend it to anyone who asks this is a very easy step to do. I love it please try it you won't be disappointed
Dianna R.
Great customer service. Questions were easy to answer and had descriptions to understand the questions.
Andelain R.
Proudly featured in these publications
Frequently Asked Questions About Dating During Divorce in Missouri
Is dating during separation considered adultery in Missouri?
Dating by itself generally isn't adultery. Adultery usually refers to a sexual relationship with someone other than your spouse, and in Missouri you remain married until the final decree. Adultery isn't a separate ground in Missouri, but it can be one of the facts used to show the marriage is broken. Missouri courts can also consider the conduct of the spouses during the marriage when deciding maintenance and dividing property.
Can my spouse use dating as grounds for divorce in Missouri?
Missouri is a no-fault state: the only ground for dissolution is that the marriage is irretrievably broken. If one spouse denies that under oath, the other must show certain facts, which can include adultery, behavior, abandonment, or a period of living apart.
Can dating affect spousal support in Missouri?
Missouri courts may consider the conduct of both spouses during the marriage when deciding spousal maintenance (alimony), so adultery can be a factor. When modifying maintenance, Missouri courts consider whether the recipient's expenses are, or should be, shared by someone they live with. Cohabitation can support a change, but it doesn't automatically end maintenance.
Can dating during divorce affect custody in Missouri?
Missouri courts decide custody based on the children's best interests. A new relationship generally matters only if it affects the children, for example how and when they are introduced to a new partner, or the partner's behavior around them.
Does an agreement with my spouse that we can both date protect me?
Not necessarily. Private agreements between spouses do not control how a Missouri court decides support or custody, and either spouse can raise the issue later.
Is it different if we have been separated for a long time in Missouri?
Your legal status is the same: you remain married until the final decree. How much a relationship that begins during a long separation matters depends on how Missouri treats the specific issues in your case.
How does Missouri's property law treat dating during divorce?
Missouri divides marital property equitably (fairly, not necessarily equally), and the conduct of the spouses during the marriage is one of the factors courts consider. Spending marital money on a new partner can be raised separately as waste of marital assets.
Where can I get advice about my situation in Missouri?
A licensed Missouri family law attorney can advise on your specific situation. The Missouri Bar offers resources for finding one.
Related Guides
Our Services
Paperwork Only
Basic access to divorce paperwork where you handle the rigorous filing process with the court.
POPULAR
We File For You
Our most popular package includes a dedicated case manager, automated court filing, spouse signature collection, and personalized documentation.
Fully Guided
Complete divorce support including mediation sessions, dedicated case management, court filing, and personalized documentation.
State Divorce Guides
City Divorce Guides
How Much Does Divorce Cost in Columbia, MO? | 2026 Price Guide
How Much Does Divorce Cost in Kansas City, MO (2026) | Filing Fees & Attorney Rates
Springfield, MO Divorce Cost: 2026 Price Breakdown
How Much Does Divorce Cost in St. Louis, MO (2026) | Filing Fees & Attorney Rates
County Divorce Guides
Real Answers. Real Support.
We're here to guide you through every step of divorce — whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to take the next step. Our blog offers expert insights, practical tips, and real-life stories to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.