Deciding to end a marriage is never easy, and the legal process can feel like one more hurdle in an already emotional journey. One of the first questions many people ask is, “How long will my divorce take?” In Kansas City, the answer depends on several factors—but one key element is the waiting period for divorce, which is unique to each state.
How Long Is the Waiting Period for Divorce in Kansas?
Kansas has a mandatory 60-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. This means that after you file your divorce petition, the court will not issue a final divorce decree until at least 60 days have passed.
This waiting period begins the day after the divorce petition is filed and served to the other spouse. Even if both spouses agree on all terms, they must still wait out the 60-day waiting period for divorce before the court will approve their divorce.
How Long is the Waiting Period for Divorce in Missouri?
If you’re filing for divorce in Kansas City, you might be wondering whether Kansas or Missouri law applies to your situation. In Missouri, the waiting period for divorce is 30 days, which is shorter than Kansas’ 60-day requirement. However, the total time it takes to finalize a divorce in Missouri can vary based on factors such as court availability, case complexity, and whether the divorce is contested.
Are There Exceptions to the Waiting Period in Kansas and Missouri?
Yes, both Kansas and Missouri allow for exceptions to the standard waiting period for divorce, but the circumstances and court discretion vary between the two states.
Kansas
In Kansas, the court may waive the 60-day waiting period in certain urgent situations, such as:
- Domestic violence or abuse: If one spouse has experienced abuse or is in danger, the court may allow the divorce to be expedited for safety reasons.
- Severe financial hardship: If delaying the divorce would cause significant financial harm to one spouse, the court may approve a faster resolution.
- Uncontested divorces with full agreement: In rare cases, if both spouses have agreed on all divorce terms and there is a compelling reason for urgency, a judge may shorten the waiting period.
It’s important to note that these exceptions are not guaranteed, and are granted at the judge’s discretion.
Missouri
In Missouri, the 30-day waiting period is generally required, but in some cases, the court may allow a faster divorce process. Possible exceptions include:
- Emergency situations: If there is an urgent need for the divorce to be finalized quickly—such as threats to safety—the court may review the case for expedited processing.
- Uncontested divorces: While the 30-day minimum typically applies, if both spouses agree on all terms and file a fully executed settlement, some judges may move the case forward more quickly.
While Missouri’s waiting period for divorce is already shorter than Kansas’, an expedited divorce is still subject to the court’s discretion and overall case complexity.
If you believe your situation qualifies for an exception, Kansas Legal Group can help you explore your options and determine the best course of action for your case.
Start Your Divorce Case with Kansas Legal Group
At Kansas Legal Group, we understand how important it is to move forward with confidence. Whether you’re concerned about the waiting period for divorce, custody arrangements, or property division, we are here to guide you through every step.
If you need assistance with your divorce in Kansas City, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our team of Kansas City divorce attorneys will help you understand your legal options and work toward the best possible outcome.