Going Through Divorce in St. Louis County?
Get local guidance on dividing your marital home. Know your options before you sign anything at Clayton Family Court.
St. Louis County Divorce Resources
St. Louis County Family Court
Division 50 handles divorce and family law matters
105 S. Central Ave, Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-1500
Visit Website →St. Louis County Recorder of Deeds
For quitclaim deeds and property transfers
41 S. Central Ave, Clayton, MO 63105
(314) 615-5400
Visit Website →Legal Services of Eastern Missouri
Free legal help for income-qualifying residents
(314) 534-4200
Visit Website →Property Division in St. Louis County Divorces
St. Louis County has some of the most valuable residential real estate in the Missouri. From Ladue and Clayton to Kirkwood and Webster Groves, the marital home often represents the largest asset in a divorce. Understanding your options is critical.
Common St. Louis County Mistake
Don't assume you'll automatically be able to refinance into your name alone. With St. Louis County home values, you need significant income to qualify. Verify you can refinance BEFORE agreeing to a buyout in your divorce settlement.
Your Options for the Marital Home
Buyout Your Spouse
Pay your spouse their share of equity and refinance into your name. Must qualify for mortgage alone.
Sell & Split Proceeds
Often the cleanest option. Both parties get cash for a fresh start. St. Louis County market can be favorable.
Co-Own Temporarily
Delay sale until children graduate or market improves. Requires cooperation and clear agreement.
Offset Against Assets
One spouse keeps house, other gets equivalent value in retirement accounts or other assets.
Not sure you can afford the house alone? Selling might be your best path to a fresh start. Get your free property options report →
St. Louis County Divorce Property FAQs
Where do I file for divorce in St. Louis County?
Divorce cases are filed at the St. Louis County Family Court at 105 S. Central Avenue in Clayton. At least one spouse must have lived in Missouri for 90 days before filing. You can file for dissolution of marriage in the 21st Judicial Circuit if you live in St. Louis County.
How is property divided in St. Louis County divorces?
Missouri follows 'equitable distribution' – meaning fair but not necessarily equal. St. Louis County judges consider each spouse's economic circumstances, contribution to the marriage, value of non-marital property, and conduct during the marriage. With the high home values in many St. Louis County communities, the marital home is often the largest asset to divide.
How long does divorce take in St. Louis County?
Missouri requires a 30-day waiting period. Uncontested divorces in St. Louis County typically take 30-90 days. Contested divorces with property disputes can take 6-18 months. The St. Louis County docket is often busy, so scheduling hearings may add time.
Can I sell my St. Louis County home during divorce?
Generally, you need either your spouse's consent or court approval to sell during divorce. St. Louis County courts often issue automatic temporary restraining orders preventing sale of marital assets without consent. If both parties agree to sell, the court will approve and divide proceeds according to your settlement.
What if my spouse won't leave our St. Louis County home?
In St. Louis County, you can request exclusive possession through the Family Court. Judges consider factors like domestic violence, children's welfare, and each spouse's housing alternatives. This is a temporary order during divorce proceedings, not a final determination of who gets the house.
Documents for St. Louis County Divorce Property Division
Having these items ready helps us give you accurate guidance faster:
- Marriage certificate
- Property deed (from St. Louis County Recorder)
- Current mortgage statement
- Recent home appraisal or comparable sales
- Property tax records from St. Louis County
- Home improvement receipts
- Prenuptial agreement (if any)
- Recent bank statements
- Retirement account statements
Don’t have everything? That’s okay – start with what you have.
Start Your Free Checkup →Already Decided to Sell?
If you're dealing with property issues and have already decided that selling is your best path forward, we can help you understand your options – including timeline, equity, and what to expect. No pressure, just clarity.
Get Local Help With Your St. Louis County Divorce Property
Free consultation with someone who knows the Clayton courts and St. Louis County real estate.
Important: This information is educational and specific to St. Louis County, Missouri. It is not legal advice. For specific legal guidance on your divorce, consult with a licensed Missouri family law attorney. RE/MAX Results is a real estate brokerage, not a law firm.