How to Get a Divorce in Iowa

The divorce rate in Iowa is almost twice as high now as it was during the 1940s. The latest numbers show that Iowa's divorce rate is 3.5 divorces for every 1,000 people, compared to 1.9 per 1,000 in 1940. The divorce process in Iowa is very straightforward, but the details and specifics will vary with each case.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Petition for Dissolution of MarriageFiling Fee

1. Make absolutely sure a divorce is what you want. Depending on the situation, a divorce can be lengthy and expensive. If the marriage cannot be saved, filing for divorce is the next logical step.

2. Obtain and complete a petition for dissolution of marriage, which you can get from any clerk of court in Iowa. You can file in the same Iowa county where you and your spouse last lived together, or any county in Iowa.

3. File the dissolution of marriage petition along with the required filing fee. The court clerk will tell you the exact amount. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can file form FL-109 to obtain a postponement. A copy of the petition will also be served upon the opposing party, or respondent, who will then have 20 calendar days to answer.

4. Seek help from an experienced divorce lawyer. Although a lawyer isn't required, it's highly recommended that if you are the petitioner (the person filing for divorce) you get an attorney to make sure you know what your rights are and so that you can be represented in the best way possible.

5. Wait a minimum of 90 days for the divorce to be finalized, starting from the day the petition was served upon the respondent.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unsure whether you want to get a divorce, seek mediation to see if you and your spouse can work through your current marriage problem(s).Spouses wishing to revert to their maiden name can enter that request with the petition so that when the divorce becomes finalized, there will be no further steps in regards to a name change.Further forms may be required if child support or alimony orders are involved.
• Divorces in Iowa cannot be finalized sooner than 90 days after the respondent has received the petition.Generally, Iowa can enforce dissolution orders from other states, but it can be a long and complicated process.

References

• Iowa Judicial Branch - Divorce Law
• Iowa Divorce Rates

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