Whether you’re just starting to consider divorce or ready to file, understanding how the Kansas process works can save you time, money, and stress. From knowing where to file and how long it takes, to navigating child custody and property division, this guide breaks down everything you need to know—step by step.
To file for divorce in Kansas:
Kansas has a 60-day waiting period from the date of filing before the divorce can be finalized (unless waived by the court).
No formal separation is required before filing or finalizing a divorce.
Grounds for divorce
Kansas allows both no-fault and fault-based divorces:
Kansas follows equitable distribution:
Spousal maintenance is not guaranteed and is granted based on need. It may be:
Kansas does not use a formal alimony calculator. Judges decide based on circumstances.
Kansas favors joint legal custody but may assign sole custody if in the child’s best interest. Physical residency (where the child lives) can be split or assigned primarily to one parent.
Child support is based on state guidelines that consider both parents’ incomes, expenses, and time spent with the child.
Kansas offers a downloadable Child Support Calculator (it's a PDF document) for estimates.
Military spouses must meet Kansas’ 60-day residency requirement. Federal laws like the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act may delay proceedings during deployment.
Legal separation is available through the court using a Petition for Separate Maintenance.
Annulments are hard to get and are granted in limited cases like fraud, bigamy, or incapacity.
Kansas allows e-filing in many counties for attorneys, but most self-represented parties must file in person. Read more about e-filing here.
There are several things you may want to update or change after your divorce, including:
Divorce in Kansas is relatively straightforward, especially if uncontested. Still, issues like support, parenting time, and dividing property can be complex. Know your options, stay organized, and reach out for help when needed.