Law Office of David J. Howard

In Missouri, Chapter 452 of the Missouri statutes together with applicable case law instruct the Missouri courts and litigants of what is necessary to enter a Judgment of Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce).  Many divorce cases involve issues regarding child custody, child support, maintenance (alimony), valuation and division of assets and debts, marital misconduct and the payment of attorney fees.

The courts and litigants in Missouri look to Section 452.375 of the Missouri Statutes together with applicable case law for the factors relevant for the determination of an award of custody in Missouri divorce cases.  The Missouri courts and litigants look to Section 452.340 of the Missouri Statutes, Supreme Court Civil Rule 88.01 and applicable case law for the relevant factors for the determination of an award of child support.

There are a number of methods that may be employed to enforce the terms of a judgment of dissolution.  The methods may include wage withholdings, garnishments, executions on property, and Motions for Contempt.

As a general rule the terms of a judgment of dissolution of marriage related to the amount and duration of maintenance, the amount of child support and terms of custody are modifiable upon the presentation of appropriate proof.  Missouri courts and litigants look to numerous sections of Chapter 452 of the Missouri statutes together with applicable case law for the factors needed to modify a prior judgment.

In Missouri, the Uniform Parentage Act which is contained in Chapter 210 of the Missouri statutes together with applicable case law instruct courts and litigants of what is necessary to enter a Judgment of Paternity.  Many paternity cases also involve issues related to child custody, child support, past due expenses associated with raising the child and the payment of attorney fees.