Missouri Family Laws

7 Things to Know About Divorce in Missouri

7 Things to Know About Divorce in Missouri

Hours Categories Divorce

Divorce litigation in Missouri is expensive, stressful, and unpredictable. If you want more control, privacy, and peace of mind, consider an amicable divorce through Mediation or a Collaborative Divorce. Many people start the divorce process hoping the court will sort everything out in a fair way. But once you are in the system, it can feel like you have lost control. Court schedules move slowly, legal fees add up quickly, and you may end up with decisions that do not reflect your families’ values or goals. Before you move forward, it helps to understand a few key things about how divorce works in Missouri. 1. Litigation Does Not Guarantee a Win No matter how strong your case seems, you are probably not going to walk…

Best interest of the child

How Does Missouri Determine the Best Interest of a Child?

Hours Categories Child Custody

The term “Best Interests of a Child” is commonly used in child custody cases in Missouri.  But how does the state determine what is in the best interest of your child? The process may seem complex, but let’s break it down for you. The 50-50 Presumption Missouri operates under a new statute that presumes a 50-50 custody arrangement. It presumes that both parents will have equal parenting time. There must be significant reasons to deviate from this. However, a court can consider other factors if there are questions about a 50-50 arrangement. Factors Considered by the Court The Missouri statute outlines eight crucial factors that the court examines: 1. Parental Wishes and Proposed Parenting Plan The court can consider the parents’ custody wishes. It can…

child support laws

5 Things To Know About Child Support In Missouri

Hours Categories Child Custody

If you find yourself wondering why you have to pay child support in Missouri, you’re not alone. This article is here to make things clearer for you. We’ll explore why child support exists and how it operates, breaking it down into simple terms. 1. Why Do You Have to Pay Child Support? In a nutshell, you must pay child support because this ensures your child’s lifestyle doesn’t change drastically when going between homes. The aim is to equalize their living conditions at each parent’s house. The purpose of child support is to assist with the child’s basic needs, such as food, housing, utilities, and clothing. 2. How Is Child Support Calculated in Missouri? Child support calculations in Missouri are based on the Form 14.  The…