Top Resources for Divorce in Iowa
- Process to file for divorce in Iowa
- Iowa Divorce forms and papers
- How much does a divorce cost in Iowa?
- How to serve divorce papers in Iowa
- DIY divorce process in Iowa without lawyers
- Contested Iowa divorce
- Uncontested Iowa divorce
- Legal separation vs. divorce in Iowa
- Where to file for divorce in Iowa
- Alimony in Iowa
- Attorney fees in Iowa
Important Information About Divorce in Iowa
What is the waiting period for divorce in Iowa?
90 days (can be waived under specific circumstances).
Do you need to be separated before filing for divorce in Iowa, and if so, for how long?
No.
What are the property division rules (e.g., separate property or equitable distribution) in Iowa?
Equitable distribution.
What is the filing fee for divorce in Iowa?
$265.
Is a joint petition for divorce possible in Iowa?
No.
How do you waive the divorce filing fee in Iowa?
Apply here: Iowa Courts Waiver Form.
What are the annulment rules in Iowa?
-
Illegal marriage
-
Impotence
-
Existing marriage
-
Incapacity
More details: Iowa Courts - Annulment
Is there a faster way to divorce in Iowa (e.g., summary dissolution)?
An uncontested divorce is the fastest option.
What are the divorcing parties called in Iowa?
Petitioner and Respondent.
How do you serve the divorce petition in Iowa, and can service be waived?
Service can be done via personal delivery, sheriff, process server, mail, or publication (if approved by the court). More details: Iowa Dissolution Process
What are the residency requirements for divorce in Iowa?
No residency requirement if the respondent is an Iowa resident and served personally. Otherwise, the petitioner must live in Iowa for at least one year.
Does it matter who files first for divorce in Iowa?
No.
What is the response deadline to a divorce petition in Iowa?
Generally, 20 calendar days from the date of service, but this can vary by case.
Are parties required to go to court in Iowa?
Not always, especially if the divorce is uncontested.
Are there pre-divorce filing or finalization requirements in Iowa (such as classes)?
Yes. You must take a class called "Children in the Middle."
Is separation required before finalizing divorce in Iowa?
No.
Is Iowa a no-fault divorce state?
Yes.
Is there permanent alimony/spousal support in Iowa?
Typically, a maximum of 3 years unless special circumstances like incapacitation apply.
What are the spousal support rules in Iowa?
Support is determined based on factors like duration of marriage, financial resources, education needs, and health. See Iowa Code § 598.21A.
What are the child support rules in Iowa?
Parents must support minor children and those aged 18-19 completing high school or equivalency. See guidelines: Iowa Child Support Guidelines
What are the military divorce rules in Iowa?
Residents stationed outside Iowa can file in Iowa. Protections are provided under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act.
Is there an official spousal support calculator in Iowa?
No.
Is there an official child support calculator in Iowa?
No official calculator, but there is an estimator: Iowa Child Support Estimator.
When can you file taxes as a single person after divorce in Iowa?
You are considered single for tax purposes if divorced by December 31. Separated individuals maintaining a household for a dependent might file as head of household.
Can parties legally separate in Iowa, and how?
Legal separation isn't required, but you can file if desired. See Iowa Legal Aid.
Where do you file for divorce in Iowa?
File in the county where you or your spouse resides. See Iowa Code § 598.2.
What are the rules for filing divorce in Iowa?
Iowa prefers online filing. Special permission is required for non-electronic filing.
What are the primary divorce documents in Iowa?
Forms are available at Iowa Interactive Court Forms.
Can you change your name during divorce in Iowa, and how?
Include a name-change request in your petition or answer. Only birth names or names used immediately before marriage are allowed. See Iowa Code § 598.37.
Can you finalize a divorce while pregnant in Iowa?
Yes, it appears so.
How do you end a domestic partnership in Iowa?
File an Affidavit of Termination of Domestic Partnership. See Affidavit Form. Common-law marriages require divorce.
Are financial disclosures required in Iowa divorce?
Yes, called Financial Affidavits.
Is there free legal help for divorce in Iowa?
Yes, via Iowa Legal Aid.
Does Iowa recognize common-law marriage?
Yes, under certain conditions. See Iowa Legal Aid.
Is e-filing available for divorce in Iowa?
Yes, see Iowa e-Filing.
Are you required to appear in court during the divorce process in Iowa?
Not if all issues are settled and required documents filed. Otherwise, a final hearing may be necessary.
Sources:
https://www.iowacourts.gov/
https://www.iowalegalaid.org
