Missouri Divorce Lawyers: Find the Support You Need Near You

Divorce in Missouri can feel confusing and emotionally heavy — especially when children, shared property, or long-term finances are involved. Whether you're seeking a peaceful, uncontested divorce or preparing for a more complex, contested case, the right support can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Missouri is a modified no-fault state, meaning you don’t need to prove wrongdoing to end your marriage, but fault can still matter when determining custody, property division, or maintenance. That’s why many Missourians turn to experienced divorce lawyers to protect their rights and guide them through each stage of the process.

Below, you’ll find a practical overview of Missouri divorce laws, tips for choosing the right attorney, and a vetted directory of trusted family-law attorneys serving major metro areas across the state.

Understanding Divorce in Missouri

Missouri allows couples to file for divorce if the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” You do not need to prove fault — but evidence of misconduct may still influence the outcome of your case.

Residency Requirement

You must live in Missouri for at least 90 days before filing.

Waiting Period

Missouri requires a 30-day waiting period after filing before a divorce can be finalized.

Property Division

Missouri follows equitable distribution, meaning the court divides marital property fairly, not automatically 50/50.

Courts consider:

• Length of the marriage

• Each spouse’s economic circumstances

• Nonmarital property

• Conduct during the marriage (in some cases)

• Contributions to the household or career

Spousal Support (Maintenance)

Missouri courts may award temporary or long-term maintenance depending on:

• Ability to be self-supporting

• Standard of living during the marriage

• Age and health

• Financial resources

• Duration of the marriage

Custody & Parenting Time

Courts prioritize the best interests of the child, considering:

• Emotional ties

• Parental involvement

• Stability of each home

• Co-parenting ability

• Child’s developmental needs

When You May Need a Missouri Divorce Lawyer

Missouri divorces vary widely in complexity. You may benefit from hiring an attorney if:

• You disagree on custody or parenting time

• You and your spouse have substantial assets or debts

• A business, farm, or retirement accounts are involved

• Negotiations have stalled

• You’re concerned about safety or financial control

• You want someone to advocate for your interests

A lawyer can help you avoid procedural errors, protect your rights, and reach a fair, lasting agreement.

Missouri Uncontested Divorce Options

If you and your spouse can agree on all major issues, you may qualify for an uncontested divorce — the fastest and least expensive way to end a marriage in Missouri.

Divorce.com helps couples:

• Prepare accurate, Missouri-specific divorce forms

• File correctly the first time

• Complete the process affordably

• Access support when questions arise

This approach works best for low-conflict couples who want a simple, predictable path forward.

⭐ Missouri Divorce Lawyers by Metro Area

Here are trusted family-law attorneys serving Missouri’s largest metro areas.
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St. Louis

• Stange Law Firm, PC

• The Center for Family Law

• Cordell & Cordell

Kansas City

• The Hill Law Firm, P.C.

• The Joseph & Joseph Law Firm

• Berkowitz Cook

Springfield

• Lowther Johnson Attorneys at Law

• Stange Law Firm — Springfield

Columbia / Jefferson City

• Rogers, Ehrhardt, Weber & Howard

• Harper, Evans, Wade & Netemeyer