Columbia, Missouri Divorce Attorneys in Boone County, MO
Divorce is never easy, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Stange Law Firm, our Columbia-based legal team is committed to guiding you through each stage of the process with clarity and compassion. Your attorney will provide answers, explain your legal options, and advocate for your rights.
Whether your case involves children or other family matters, we prioritize protecting what matters most to you. From our Columbia, MO office, we serve clients throughout Boone County with dedication and care in all areas of family law.
Many of our attorneys have been recognized for awards and accolades in the field of divorce law. Some of these awards include being named Super Lawyer Rising Stars Honorees, Lead Counsel Rated for Divorce, and many others. You can find more information about each attorney’s awards by visiting their biographies on our website.
To learn more about the Boone County Court in Columbia, Missouri, we have provided the following links:
- Boone County Circuit Clerk’s Office: Discover details and services offered by the Circuit Clerk’s office in Boone County.
- Boone County Family Court Rules: Curious about how family court operates in Boone County? Find answers and guidelines here.
- Map to Boone County Courthouse: Need help finding your way to the courthouse? Use this map for step-by-step directions.
- Boone County Divorce Forms: Access the official divorce paperwork required for filings in Boone County.
To schedule a confidential initial consultation to discuss your specific needs, call our Columbia, Missouri divorce lawyers at 855-805-0595 or contact our law firm online.
Helping Families Navigate Divorce with Care in Boone County, MO
In any Missouri divorce case, you can be sure that you are represented by attorneys who will help you every step of the way. We only represent clients in divorce and domestic litigation matters, using the skill and care gained specifically in this field to better serve you in your Boone County, Missouri Divorce.
Visit our website to access informative articles, watch educational videos and seminars, tune into our podcast, download our mobile app, and use the Missouri support calculator to help guide your decisions.
Trusted Columbia, MO Divorce Lawyers for All Family Law Needs
At Stange Law Firm, PC, we provide full-service divorce representation in Columbia, Missouri, serving Boone County, Jefferson City, Cole County, and nearby areas. Our attorneys guide clients through every stage of the divorce process, whether it’s an uncontested case, a contested divorce, or a complex high-net-worth matter. We focus on protecting your interests and helping you make informed decisions throughout.
We handle a wide range of domestic issues, including annulments, child custody and visitation, child support, spousal maintenance and alimony, and the division of property and debts. Our team also assists with post-divorce modifications, ensuring that changes in circumstances are addressed fairly and efficiently.
In addition, we represent clients in the dissolution of same-sex marriages and provide support for collaborative divorces and mediation. These alternative approaches can help resolve disputes more amicably and constructively.
Our goal is to provide knowledgeable, compassionate representation, helping clients navigate the legal and emotional complexities of these matters with confidence. At Stange Law Firm, PC, you’re not just getting an attorney—you’re gaining a partner who will guide you every step of the way.
Columbia, MO Frequently Asked Questions
Divorce in Columbia, Missouri
In Missouri, couples can seek a divorce when their marriage has broken down beyond repair. The law does not require one spouse to be at fault, though actions like misconduct may influence decisions about property division, debts, and spousal maintenance.
Columbia, MO Residency Requirements
To file for divorce, at least one spouse must have lived in Missouri for a minimum of 90 days. The petition is usually submitted in the county where the filing spouse resides. In some cases, it may be possible to request the case be moved to a different county.
Court Process and Terminology
Divorce cases in Boone County are handled by the Circuit Court. Key terms to know include:
- Petitioner – the spouse initiating the divorce
- Respondent – the spouse being served
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage – the initial filing
- Decree or Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage – the final court order
Legal Separation in Boone County
For couples not ready to divorce, Missouri allows legal separation, which can address property, spousal support, and child-related matters in a similar manner to divorce. Legal separation can later be converted into a full divorce if desired. Residency requirements remain the same.
Spousal Maintenance in Columbia, Missouri
Courts may award spousal support if one spouse cannot meet their financial needs, particularly if they are caring for a child or lack sufficient income or assets. Judges consider factors like the standard of living during the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, the length of the marriage, age and health, and financial obligations. Maintenance orders may be modifiable if circumstances change significantly.
Columbia, Missouri Property Division
Missouri follows equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Property owned prior to the marriage typically remains with its original owner, while assets acquired during the marriage are divided based on the couple’s finances, contributions, and any custody arrangements for children.
Child Custody and Support in Columbia
Child custody is decided according to the child’s best interests. Courts usually start with joint physical and legal custody, but may award sole custody to one parent or even a third party if necessary. Decisions are based on the child’s relationships, the parents’ involvement, and the child’s own wishes.
Child support is calculated based on the needs of the child and the financial resources of each parent. Obligations generally end when the child turns 18 (or 21 if still in school), marries, becomes self-sufficient, enters military service, or passes away. Parents may also need to maintain health insurance for their children during and after divorce proceedings.
Name Changes in Columbia, MO
As part of the divorce, a spouse may request to return to a former or maiden name, and courts typically grant this request.
Schedule a Consultation with Divorce Attorneys in Columbia, Missouri
If you are thinking about a divorce in Boone County in Columbia, Missouri, and need representation from our Columbia divorce lawyers call us at 573-303-0595 or contact our law firm online.
Boone County (Columbia), MO Office: 573-303-0595. Click to learn more about this location. 1506 Chapel Hill Road, Suite H, Columbia, Missouri 65203.
