Missouri Divorce Legal Questions

If you have been served with a Petition, you have a limited amount of time to file a formal answer to the Petition, or you will be considered in default and deemed to have admitted all the allegations in your wife's petition. It is also common for respondents in your position to file a counter-petition alleging facts, asset/liability division, custody arrangements, and property division as you would like the judge to order in your final decree. Again, you have a limited amount of time to file it. If your wife has filed a petition with allegations contrary to what you thought you two had agreed upon, then your case may in fact be contested. I suggest you consult with an attorney in your local area who practices divorce law.... Read Answer

You should retain an attorney to assist you. If you do not have funds for an attorney, you should contact your local Legal Aid office to see if they can represent you. To obtain custody, you will have to file for divorce and obtain a court order for custody and child support. You can also obtain spousal support if he makes considerably more money than you.... Read Answer

You need to file for a Motion of Contempt according to the local rules in the Circuit or the General Rules of that Circuit.  If it is a significant amount it is worth retaining good legal counsel who will make the process vastly more efficient.  The results will also likely be more favorable with counsel than without.... Read Answer

So long as there is a standing order, he is required. However, if you would seek to enforce payment and he can show non-payment based on the strike, then he will probably be excused from support payment until his employment begins again.  This is because he did nothing voluntarily to cease his employment and thus avoid payment.  Whether or not he is responsible for the arrearage that would accrue is another question entirely.... Read Answer

A divorce can be as expensive as at least one of the spouse wants it to be.   It can also be relatively inexpensive, if the parties don't feel the need to continue their fighting through their hired warriors, the lawyers. I am reminded of the old joke: Why does a divorce cost so much?  Because it is worth it.... Read Answer