Separation Rights In Missouri

Summary

In Missouri, either spouse can file for separation, and marital property is divided equitably. Alimony is based on need and ability to pay, while child custody is determined by the childs best interests. If one party removes items from the marital home before property division, the court may order their return. Infidelity may not directly affect divorce proceedings but can influence property division, custody, and alimony. Consult a local attorney for detailed advice.

Full Conversation

i am trying to see about my rights in a separation
Hello ****, I can definitely help with general information. In Missouri:
- Either spouse can file for separation
- Marital property is divided equitably
- Alimony is awarded based on need and ability to pay
- Child custody is determined by the child's best interests
For a detailed understanding, consult with a local attorney.
what if one of the people start taking things from the house before it is divided
In Missouri, if one party starts removing items from the marital home before property division, it could be viewed negatively by the court. It's recommended to establish a temporary agreement about property use during separation. Consult a local attorney for personalized advice.
If they start removing things before they are divided can they be ordered to return them>
In Missouri, the court can issue orders to prevent the dissipation of marital assets during a separation or divorce. If items are removed without agreement or court order, the court can potentially order them returned. Please consult a local attorney for personalized advice.
what happens if one spouse cheats on the other
In Missouri, which is a "no-fault" divorce state, infidelity might not directly affect the divorce proceedings. However, it could indirectly influence factors like:
- Property division, if marital funds were spent on the affair.
- Custody decisions, if the affair impacted the children.
- Alimony, if the affair resulted in economic hardship for one spouse.
It's best to consult a local attorney for specific advice.