Missouri Dissolution of Marriage FAQ — Most Common Questions (2026)

Basics

Why does Missouri call it "Dissolution of Marriage"? Missouri statutes use "Dissolution of Marriage" to describe the legal termination of a marriage. It is the same as a divorce — different terminology.

How long do I have to live in Missouri before filing? 90 days. Missouri's residency requirement is shorter than most states.

What is the ground for dissolution in Missouri? "Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage" — stated under oath in the Petition. One spouse's assertion is sufficient. The other party cannot prevent the dissolution by denying it indefinitely.

The 30-Day Waiting Period

Can the 30-day waiting period be waived? No. The dissolution cannot be granted before the 30-day period expires. Missouri's 30-day period is one of the shortest mandatory waiting periods in the country, but it is still mandatory.

Does the 30 days start at filing or at service? At the date the Petition is filed with the court.

Form 14

Is Form 14 always required with children? Yes. In every Missouri dissolution case that includes a child support order, Form 14 is required. There is no exception. The court will not enter a child support order without it.

What if we agree to a different child support amount than Form 14 calculates? You may deviate from the Form 14 amount if you include written findings in the MSA explaining why the Form 14 amount is unjust or inappropriate. Vague statements are not sufficient.

Where do I get Form 14? courts.mo.gov → Self-Help → Family Law. Detailed instructions are included.

Property

What is "marital property" in Missouri? Property acquired by either spouse during the marriage — including income, real estate, retirement contributions, vehicles, and bank accounts funded during the marriage.

What is "non-marital property"? Property owned before the marriage, gifts received by one spouse during the marriage, and inheritances. Non-marital property is generally not divided in a Missouri dissolution.

Is my inheritance protected in Missouri? Yes — inheritances are non-marital property under RSMo § 452.330 and are generally excluded from division. Important caveat: if you commingled the inheritance with marital funds, it may lose its non-marital character. Keep inheritances in separate accounts.

Maintenance

How is maintenance determined in Missouri? Missouri courts use 8 statutory factors (RSMo § 452.335): financial resources of requesting spouse, time needed for training/education, marital standard of living, duration of marriage, age/health of requesting spouse, paying spouse's ability, conduct during marriage, and any other relevant factors.

Are there durational limits on maintenance in Missouri? No statutory caps — duration is determined by the facts of each case.

Children

Do I need a Parenting Plan? Yes. A Parenting Plan is required in every Missouri dissolution case with minor children. It must address school-year schedule, summer, holidays, vacation, communication, and relocation.

What is the relocation notice requirement? A primary physical custody parent must provide at least 60 days' advance written notice before relocating with the children. The other parent has 30 days to object. Include this requirement in your Parenting Plan.

When does child support end in Missouri? At age 18 — or age 21 if the child is still enrolled in an accredited high school.

Last reviewed: March 2026 | Form 14 mandatory | Parenting Plan required | courts.mo.gov | 30-day wait from filing

Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.