To start the divorce process without a lawyer, you'll need to find and complete a number of forms. You can get the forms you need online, go to your local courthouse or law library to request a packet of divorce papers, or use an online divorce service to get the forms and have them completed for you.
Summary Dissolution It's a faster and less expensive option than traditional divorce, but certain requirements must be met. If you meet the criteria below, you can file the court forms and divorce papers with the Minnesota courts for a summary dissolution.
There are separate forms for the even simpler divorce process in Minnesota known as "Summary Dissolution." But there are strict requirements. In order to qualify, you must show that: you and your spouse have no living minor children together, and neither spouse is pregnant.
Sealing a Minnesota divorce record involves a court process. The applicants must persuade the court that it is necessary for safety and privacy reasons. Owners of divorce records may file for partial or complete sealing of records.
If you think your relationship may end in divorce, your first step should be to consult an experienced divorce attorney. Even if you have not fully made a decision, they can help you to understand what the likely outcomes may be in terms of financial and custody arrangements.
The court does not require you to have an attorney to get divorced in Minnesota.
Complete the copy request form (see the Copy Request Forms tab) for the county where the case is located. If no county form is available, you can use the statewide copy request form or you can write a letter to the court. Mail the completed document to court administration in the county where your case is located.
Generally, uncontested divorces in Minnesota can take about four to six weeks to finalize. This is often dependent on the calendars of the attorneys or judges involved. If the parties choose a summary dissolution, the divorce can occur within 30 days after filing a petition.