Family Law
Missouri & texas
compassion, expertise, and dedication
The Oliver Law Firm Combines those Attributes with Years of Trial and Appellate Experience to Provide you with the Best Possible Outcome.
Texas
Community Property State
Spousal Support
Marriage must last at least 10 years for standard eligibility
Maximum duration: 5, 7, or 10 years depending on marriage length
Capped at $5,000/month or 20% of paying spouse's gross income
Must prove inability to meet minimum reasonable needs
Property Division
Community property: all assets acquired during marriage are split
"Just and right" division — not always 50/50
60-day mandatory waiting period after filing
Missouri
Equitable Distribution State
Spousal Support
No minimum marriage length required for eligibility
No statutory cap on amount — judge has broad discretion
Can be temporary, rehabilitative, or permanent
Must show lack of sufficient property and inability to self-support
Property Division
Equitable distribution: fair but not necessarily equal
Court considers each spouse's economic circumstances
30-day mandatory waiting period after filing
-
What Happens
We sit down with you to understand your unique situation, goals, and concerns.
What to Expect
A confidential meeting where we review your case, explain your options, and outline a strategy tailored to your needs.
How The Oliver Law Firm Helps
The Oliver Law Firm provides a free consultation to assess your case and answer your questions with no obligation.
-
Initiating a divorce requires the filing of a petition. It can be a disputed or agreed divorce. The petition and answer address all the known issues in the divorce such as property, children, and maintenance/support.
What Happens
The divorce process begins when one spouse files a petition with the court. The other spouse must file an answer.
What to Expect
We prepare and file all necessary paperwork, including the Original Petition for Divorce or Answer, ensuring everything is accurate and complete.
How The Oliver Law Firm Helps
Our team handles all documentation, court filings, and ensures proper legal grounds are established for your case.
-
What Happens
Your spouse must be formally notified of the divorce proceedings.
What to Expect
A process server or sheriff delivers the divorce papers. The spouse being served has a set time to respond.
How The Oliver Law Firm Helps
We coordinate service of process and track response deadlines so nothing falls through the cracks.
-
What Happens
The court may issue temporary orders to maintain stability during the divorce.
What to Expect
Orders may cover child custody, spousal support, bill payments, and property use while the case is pending.
How The Oliver Law Firm Helps
We advocate for temporary orders that protect your interests and your children's well-being from day one.
-
What Happens
Both parties exchange financial information and negotiate terms of the divorce.
What to Expect
Full disclosure of assets, debts, income, and expenses. We work toward a fair settlement through negotiation or mediation.
How The Oliver Law Firm Helps
Our attorneys conduct thorough discovery to uncover all assets and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.
-
What Happens
A neutral mediator helps both parties reach an agreement outside of court.
What to Expect
A structured session where both sides work toward compromise on property division, custody, and support.
How The Oliver Law Firm Helps
We prepare you thoroughly for mediation and advocate for your best interests throughout the process.
-
What Happens
If mediation fails, your case goes before a judge for final decision.
What to Expect
A formal court hearing where evidence is presented and a judge makes binding decisions on the contested issues.
How The Oliver Law Firm Helps
Our experienced trial attorneys present compelling arguments and evidence to secure the best possible outcome.
-
What Happens
The judge signs the Final Decree of Divorce, officially ending the marriage.
What to Expect
A legally binding document outlining all terms: property division, custody arrangements, and support obligations.
How The Oliver Law Firm Helps
We review every detail of the final decree to ensure your rights are protected and all terms are enforceable.