File For Divorce in Springfield, MO
Understanding Divorce in Springfield: Laws & Costs
Are you considering a divorce? At the Shuler Law Firm, LLC, our Springfield, MO, divorce lawyers have over 20 years of experience representing clients facing complex family matters. Our decades of insight can help you make the best decision at every turn to ensure that your rights are protected, and your future is preserved.
Filing for Divorce in Missouri: Who Should File First?
Yes, it can matter who files for divorce first in Missouri. The person who files first is called the "petitioner," and the other person is called the "respondent." The petitioner has the initial advantage in the divorce process, as they are the one who sets the pace of the case and determines to address the divorce issues. But on the other hand, the respondent can respond to the petition and ask for changes to the divorce terms.
There are a few advantages to filing for divorce first in Missouri:
- The petitioner can choose the judge who will hear the case. Choosing a judge can be essential if the petitioner prefers a particular judge or believes a certain judge will be more sympathetic to their case.
- The petitioner can ask for temporary orders, such as restraining orders or orders for child custody, before finalizing the case.
- The petitioner can start the process of dividing assets and debts sooner.
However, there are also some disadvantages to filing for divorce first in Missouri:
- The petitioner may be required to pay the respondent's attorney fees if they cannot afford them.
- The petitioner may be more likely to pay alimony or child support.
- The petitioner may be less likely to get what they want in the divorce settlement if the respondent is willing to fight for what they want.
Ultimately, deciding whether to file for divorce first in Missouri is a personal decision. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best decision for someone may not be the best for another.
Therefore, it is essential to talk to our Springfield divorce attorneys to discuss your options and to get direction on how to proceed.
Whatever you face in a Missouri divorce, we are ready to be at your side to face those challenges. We understand this is an overwhelmingly emotional time in your life, and our team of divorce lawyers know how to help you secure the resolution you need.
Our Springfield, MO divorce lawyers can help you with cases involving:
- Military Divorce
- Property Division
- Alimony / Spousal Support
- Child Custody
- Child Support
- Visitation Rights
Advocating for Clients' Rights for Over 20 Years
At Shuler Law Firm, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"I have only the kindest regards for the Shuler team!"Tamee was most accommodating, and helpful throughout a very difficult crisis in my life. She truly went above, and beyond what I could have hoped for and has helped my mother and myself throughout this very difficult time. Thank you so much for taking the extra effort to help us get matters resolved!!! I would highly recommend the Shuler team to anyone in need of a truly professional, and caring law firm.- George B.
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"I highly recommend the Shuler Law Firm."From the very first call, through the whole process, the legal staff at Shuler Law Firm were professional and knowledgeable. I always felt like I had an advocate in my corner. On top of that, they were very efficient and explained legal procedures in a way that I could understand.- Lee P.
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"I will definitely use them again if any matter arises! Highly recommended!!!"I hired David Shuler for a matter a few months ago. He handled my case efficiently and made sure that everything was taken care of, as he promised. His paralegal, Tamee, was always very helpful and was quick to respond to any of my questions!- Stephanie H.
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"Thank you again Tamee and David for everything!"Shuler Law Firm took care of all my needs for my case and I appreciate how attentive Tamee was. She made sure I was aware of every step and everything turned out great. They were prompt and forthcoming.- Vic K.
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"Shuler Law Firm is hands down the best law firm for divorce."I called three different lawyers about my case and Tamee was very helpful and took my difficult case. They were with me every step of the way and did their best to conserve money.- Katie D.
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"Worth every dime!"Amazing!!! Worth every dime!! Tammie is amazing to work with.. she was super helpful and super patient with our fairly difficult case. She did everything possible to get our case done as quick and cheap as possible. I would give them a million stars if I could!!!- Savannah L.
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"Thank you so much you two are the best."David and his paralegal Tammee are great, the paralegal will keep you up to date and in the loop on everything. She is very understanding and you would not have found a better Attorney/Paralegal team that actually knows what they are doing. Tammee had my ex served as soon as she located her, it was a blessing to be able to obtain this Attorney and their lawfirm. You both are the best and thank you so much for the outcome that I wanted to get and they got it for me.- Jeremiah P.
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"I am glad I chose Shuler Law Firm to handle my divorce case."Attorney fees were reasonable and they show details on where your money is going on your case through their website. David and Tamee were great getting back to me via email or phone on any questions I had concerning my case. I highly recommend David Shuler for an attorney and he has a great paralegal Tamee to keep on top of the paperwork.- Julie M.