When you’re going through a divorce, everything is on the table: custody of your children, the family home, your 401(k), personal property, spousal support and child support—all of which implicates your family’s wellbeing and future. Whether you’re facing a contested or an uncontested divorce, the process can be difficult and emotional. We understand that each case is unique and requires personalized attention and solutions—and this individualized approach to your case makes a profound difference. 

Missouri is a no-fault divorce state. This means you don’t have to prove your spouse did something “wrong” to get a divorce. You only need to show the marriage is irretrievably broken and there is no reasonable likelihood the marriage can be preserved. 

The court will then be tasked with terminating the marriage and making decisions regarding:

• Spousal Support: The court may award maintenance or spousal support to one spouse if he or she os financially dependent on the other spouse;
• Child support: Missouri uses a formula called the Form 14 to calculate the amount of child support that should be paid by one parent to the other unless a party rebuts the results of the Form 14;
• Child Custody: The court will make a determination about the best interests of any children born of the marriage, including both physical and legal custody;
• Property Division: Missouri is an “equitable distribution” state, which means the court will divide marital property and debt in a manner it considers equitable (fair) but not necessarily equal; and 
• Fees and costs: A spouse can seek reimbursement for litigation costs and reasonable attorney’s fees from the other spouse, depending on the conduct of the parties during the litigation and a disparity in income or resources between the parties. 

This process can be even more complicated if you own a family business, have a complex financial situation, or if there are disputes about who should be awarded custody of your children.

We have the experience and background to provide you with the highest level of legal representation in some of the most complex situations faced by litigants in family court. Whether we are working to negotiate a resolution to your case, or litigating it to conclusion, your rights and interests are our first priority. We have seen it all and we don’t judge. We have the extensive knowledge and passion necessary to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.