Before you decide to move out, know that there are consequences involved, from child custody to property division. While you may feel an urgent need to leave, particularly if your safety is at risk, you should also be aware of the potential consequences if you leave prematurely.

Missouri’s divorce rate as of 2021 is roughly 3.7 per 1,000 people, based on National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) data, which shows the divorce rate in the state from 1990 to 2021. This ratio marginally exceeds the national average of 2.9 per 1,000 inhabitants.

In a Missouri divorce, all marital assets are subject to equitable division. The court will try to distribute marital assets equitably and fairly. This does not mean, however, that the property will be divided equally.

It’s not illegal in Missouri to start a romantic or sexual relationship while your divorce is ongoing but it is also unwise. Your marriage is still valid until a divorce decree is issued, consequently, behavior like dating may cause a judge to reconsider important issues like child custody and property division.

A wife in a Missouri divorce is entitled to what the court finds fair after it considers a number of things. There is no automatic grant of a certain amount or percentage of a divorcing couple’s property. Let’s explain.