![How Long Does Divorce Take in Missouri? [2025 Timeline]](/assets/divorce.jpg)
One of the most common questions we hear from clients is: "How long is this going to take?" The honest answer is — it depends. But we can give you a realistic picture based on the type of divorce you're facing.
Missouri's 30-Day Waiting Period
Missouri law requires that at least 30 days pass from the date of filing before a divorce can be finalized. This applies to every divorce — even the most straightforward uncontested cases. There is no way to waive this requirement.
Uncontested Divorce: 30–90 Days
If you and your spouse agree on all terms — property division, custody, support — and both sign the settlement agreement, your divorce can be finalized as quickly as 30–45 days after filing (after the waiting period). In practice, most uncontested divorces take 60–90 days due to scheduling and paperwork.
Contested Divorce: 6 Months to 2+ Years
When spouses disagree on major issues — especially custody — the timeline extends dramatically. The court process involves discovery, depositions, expert witnesses, guardian ad litem investigations, and multiple hearings before a final trial. A moderately contested divorce in St. Louis County typically takes 9–15 months. Complex high-asset cases can take 18–24 months.
What Makes Divorce Take Longer?
- Custody disputes — especially when a GAL is appointed
- Business valuation disputes requiring expert testimony
- Hidden assets requiring forensic accounting
- One spouse being uncooperative with discovery
- Court scheduling backlogs (especially post-pandemic)
How to Speed Up Your Divorce
The single most powerful thing you can do to accelerate your divorce is to reach agreements on as many issues as possible. Mediation, negotiation with counsel, and collaborative divorce all reduce timelines significantly. An experienced family law attorney can help you identify areas of potential agreement and resolve disputed issues efficiently.