In Missouri, a dissolution of marriage can be granted based upon the allegation of the petitioner that the marriage is irretrievably broken and cannot be preserved. This is often referred to as a no fault divorce. The petitioner must be a resident of the State of Missouri for more than ninety (90) days before the petitions for dissolution of marriage can be filed in the county where the petitioner resides.

A dissolution of marriage will involve division of the marital property acquired by the parties, child custody, child support, visitation and maintenance which used to be called alimony. Both joint legal and physical custody are options available in Missouri, but joint custody does not preclude an award of child support. If the parties can agree of issues of custody, child support, maintenance, visitation and division of property, they can enter into a written separation agreement for approval by the Court. However, if the parties cannot reach an agreement, then these decisions will be solely up to a judge.

The consequences of the dissolution of marriage can be harsh and, therefore, it is vital that you see an attorney to protect your interests.