Divorce in Wyoming: A Clear and Concise Guide

Facing a divorce can be daunting, but understanding your state’s laws can make a big difference. This page is dedicated to providing a clear overview of the divorce process in Wyoming. For more comprehensive resources and helpful links, keep reading.

Divorce Laws in Wyoming

Wyoming allows for no-fault divorce, where “irreconcilable differences” is the primary ground. To file for divorce in Wyoming, either you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least 60 days.

Wyoming stands out with its straightforward approach to divorce, not requiring a specific waiting period for the divorce to be finalized, unlike some states that have longer waiting times.

Process of Filing for Divorce

In Wyoming, you begin the divorce process by filing a “Complaint for Divorce” in the district court of the county where you or your spouse lives. After filing, these papers must be legally served to your spouse. Wyoming has particular forms for this process.

If both spouses agree on the terms, an uncontested divorce is possible, which is often quicker and less complicated. In contested divorces, where there are disagreements, additional court proceedings may be necessary.

Child Custody and Support

Child custody decisions in Wyoming are based on the best interests of the child. Factors considered include the child’s relationship with each parent, and each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment. Child support is calculated using Wyoming’s guidelines, which consider the parents’ income and the number of children, differing from other states’ approaches.

Alimony/Spousal Support

Alimony is not automatically granted in Wyoming. The court looks at several factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, and their ability to earn. The purpose is to ensure a fair support arrangement, especially in longer marriages or when there is a significant difference in earning capacity.

Property Division

Wyoming follows the equitable distribution model for dividing marital property. This means property acquired during the marriage is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. The court considers factors like each spouse’s contribution to the marriage and their future financial needs.

Wyoming Divorce Resources

For more in-depth information on divorce in Wyoming, explore resources such as Wyoming Family Law Courts, state government websites, and legal aid organizations. These resources offer detailed assistance for your divorce process.

Article: How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Wyoming

Required Forms for Divorce in Wyoming:

Divorce with Children:

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with Minor Children: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/DWCP-Entire-4-1.pdf

Divorce without Children:

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage Without Minor Children: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/DNCP-Entire-5.pdf

Additional Forms (May be Required Depending on Your Situation):

The following forms can be found here: https://www.courts.state.wy.us/legal-assistances-and-forms/court-self-help-forms

• Waiver of Service
• Affidavit of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs
• Agreed Order on Temporary Orders
• Motion for Temporary Orders
• Affidavit of Military Service
• Final Decree of Divorce
• Agreed Final Decree of Divorce
• Motion for Entry of Default Judgment
• Request for Hearing
• Exhibit List
• Statement of Assets and Liabilities
• Child Support Worksheet

Other Resources:

• Legal Aid of Wyoming: https://www.lawyoming.org/divorce

Disclaimer

This content provides general guidance and is not legal advice. For specific legal advice, please consult a legal professional.