Trusted Divorce & Legal Separation Advocates
An Overview of Your Process Options for Divorce & Legal Separation in Missouri
The attorneys at Raza & Jones, LLC provide experienced and detail-oriented legal representation for divorce and legal separations in St. Louis, MO.
In Missouri, spouses have a few different options when it comes to bringing an end to their marriage. If your marriage is irretrievably broken, you can file for a divorce. If you believe your marriage is not over and desire to remain legally married while living separate lives, a legal separation is another option. Under certain circumstances, seeking an annulment may be the best course of action.
How do you choose the path that is best for you?
At Raza & Jones, LLC, we guide spouses in the St. Louis area through the process of filing for divorce, legal separation, or annulment. During the process, you will face many important decisions. We are here to help you every step of the way. What happens during your divorce, legal separation, or annulment will affect you and your family for years to come. Our attorneys will help you make informed decisions and stand up for your rights so that you can feel comfortable and confident in the outcome of the process.
Divorce
Legal Separations
A legal separation is similar to a divorce in most respects; however, at the end of the process, the spouses remain legally married. Couples in Missouri frequently choose to pursue a legal separation instead of getting divorced for religious or financial reasons. In a legal separation, it is important to work through all of the same issues you would address in a divorce and formalize the terms of your separation in a comprehensive agreement (just like you would in a divorce).
Annulments
Protecting Your Rights in Your Legal Separation or Divorce
In both divorces and legal separations, there are many issues that need to be thoroughly addressed. At Raza & Jones, LLC we will work closely with you throughout the process, explaining your options, giving you advice, and making sure that you have all of the information you need to make informed decisions.
Division of Marital Property
In a divorce in Missouri, marital property is subject to what the law calls, “equitable distribution.” This means that all marital property (property acquired during your marriage) must be divided in such a way as to promote a fair (though not necessarily equal) allocation. Property ownership is not solely determined by how the property is titled. The court will look at other factors such as how and when the property was acquired and the source of funds used to acquire the property. Non-marital property, i.e. property received through gift, inheritance or due to a prenuptial agreement is “set aside” to its owner.