How much does it typically cost to hire a divorce attorney in Missouri?
How Much Does It Cost To Get Divorce In Missouri?
Divorce is a difficult and stressful time for anyone, and it can be made worse by uncertainty about how much the process will cost. Missouri, like all other states in the US, has specific laws and regulations regarding divorce and its related expenses. So, in this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how much it costs to get a divorce in Missouri.
The Basic Cost Of Divorce In Missouri
The basic cost of divorce in Missouri depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case and the time required for settlement. In Missouri, filing for a divorce involves paying a filing fee, which varies from county to county. For example, in St. Charles County, the filing fee is $163.50, while in St. Louis County, it’s $175. On average, the filing fee in Missouri ranges from $130-$180.
In addition to the filing fee, there are other costs associated with the divorce process. These costs may include:
- Service fees to serve the divorce papers to your spouse which can range from $30-$100 depending on the method of service
- Attorney fees which can vary depending on several factors including the complexity of the case and how much work the attorney needs to put into it. Some attorneys may charge a flat fee, while others may charge hourly. On average, attorney fees in Missouri can range from $200-$350 per hour.
- Court costs such as fees for filing motions, subpoenas, court reporters, and more. These costs can add up quickly if your case requires multiple trips to court appearances resulting in Missouri divorce fees up to $2,000-$3,000.
Contested Vs. Uncontested Divorce
The costs of divorce in Missouri also depend on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. In an uncontested divorce, the couple agrees on all divorce-related issues such as property, debts, child custody, and support. On the other hand, a contested divorce is when the couple cannot agree on one or more issues and needs to go to court for a settlement.
An uncontested divorce usually costs less than a contested divorce since it requires less time in court and fewer legal fees. In Missouri, the average cost of an uncontested divorce ranges from $5,000-$7,500, while the average cost of a contested divorce ranges from $10,000-$25,000.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Divorce In Missouri
Several factors affect the cost of divorce in Missouri, including:
- Child custody and support arrangements
- Alimony agreements
- Division of debts and property
- Attorney fees
- Court costs
Adding to these, the complexity of the case such as mediation, negotiation, and other legal proceedings may cause the cost to cross the estimated budget.
Conclusion
Divorce in Missouri costs may range from a minimum of $130-$180 for the filing fee to an average maximum of $25,000 for contested divorce. Being aware of your options and the costs associated with each can help you make informed decisions about your divorce process in Missouri.
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For couples residing in the state of Missouri who want to get divorced, the cost is determined by a variety of factors. While there is no set standard for the cost of a divorce, a few estimates are based on a few scenarios set by the state.
When filing for a divorce, each party is responsible for the filing fees associated with the petition, which is generally between $150 and $300. If both parties agree to the divorce, a simplified procedure is available. This procedure can be less expensive than a contested divorce, stripping away the petition fees and other associated costs. However, if the divorce is contested, it becomes much more expensive. A contested divorce can be expected to cost more depending on the complexity of the case, the number of contested issues, and the number of court days needed for each appearance.
In addition to filing fees, the cost of a divorce in Missouri will also include court costs. This could include postage, photocopies, deposition costs, and expert witness fees. Other costs could include child care for hearings, meals, travel, and office fees for any additional help needed.
Missouri also requires couples to pay for processing fees, which can range from $25 to over $500 depending on the county. Furthermore, couples may be subject to court appointed mediation, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 each.
Apart from court costs, Missouri also requires couples to pay for the service of their attorney. Attorneys can cost anywhere from $100 to over $400 per hour depending on the level of expertise and complexity of the divorce case.
Finally, if there are children involved, the court will make a financial award to both parties for their support, which could also impact the cost of the divorce. The court will use the guidelines found in the Missouri Child Support Guidelines, which provides a table of values to calculate the amount of child support payments.
While the cost of a divorce can vary depending on the individual’s specific circumstances, the average cost of a divorce in Missouri is anywhere from a few thousand dollars up to a few tens of thousands of dollar—maybe even more. However, despite the cost, couples may find it worth the investment in order to move on positively with their future.