Divorce in Jefferson County: What You Need to Know

Grounds for Divorce in Jefferson County

In Missouri, couples can dissolve their marriage when there are irreconcilable differences and no reasonable chance of reconciliation. Missouri is a “no-fault” divorce state, so proving wrongdoing isn’t required. However, claims of fault may still influence the division of property, allocation of debts, or spousal maintenance decisions.

Residency Requirements in Arnold, Missouri

To file for divorce in Jefferson County, either spouse must have lived in Missouri for at least 90 days before submitting the petition. Typically, the divorce is filed in the county where the petitioner resides. In some cases, a request to move the case to a different county may be possible.

Court Names and Case Titles

Divorce cases in Jefferson County are handled in the Circuit Court. The case begins with a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and concludes with a Decree or Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage. The party filing is the Petitioner, and the spouse receiving the petition is the Respondent.

Legal Separation in Arnold

If couples are not ready to fully divorce, Missouri allows for legal separation, which preserves many of the same rights and obligations as divorce, including child support, property division, and spousal maintenance. Legal separation can later be converted into a divorce if circumstances change.

Spousal Maintenance in Jefferson County

The court may award spousal maintenance when one spouse cannot support themselves or is caring for a child whose needs prevent employment. Factors considered include:

• Time needed to obtain education or training
• Comparative earning abilities of both spouses
• Lifestyle during the marriage
• Duration of the marriage
• Age, health, and condition of the spouses
• Assets, debts, and financial obligations
• Conduct during the marriage
• Any other relevant circumstances

Maintenance orders must specify whether they are modifiable, and adjustments may only occur if circumstances change significantly.

Division of Property in Arnold

Missouri follows equitable distribution rules, meaning marital property is divided fairly, though not always equally. Separate property—owned before marriage—is typically retained by each spouse, while marital assets are divided based on factors like:

• Contributions to the marital estate
• Economic circumstances at the time of division
• Conduct during the marriage
• Custodial arrangements for minor children

Child Custody in Jefferson County

Custody is determined based on the best interests of the child, with courts considering:

• Parent and child preferences
• The child’s relationship with parents and siblings
• The child’s needs for a consistent and meaningful relationship with both parents

The court generally prefers joint physical and legal custody. If that isn’t suitable, the court considers other arrangements, including sole custody or third-party custody. Age, sex, or financial status of the parents or child does not influence custody decisions. Parents may also be required to attend educational classes or dispute resolution programs related to custody matters.

Child Support in Arnold, Missouri

Missouri courts determine child support based on the financial needs of the child and parents, custody arrangements, and the standard of living the child would have experienced. Support obligations typically end when the child:

• Turns 18 (or 21 if enrolled in secondary school)
• Marries
• Becomes self-sufficient or joins the military
• Passes away

Parents may also be required to maintain health insurance for their child throughout the divorce process and until the final decree.

Name Changes in Jefferson County

Spouses may request to revert to a former or maiden name. The court generally approves this request as part of the divorce process.