Child custody and support in Missouri

Custody of the Children In Missouri

When you file for a divorce in Missouri, the court will award either joint or sole child custody, based on what is in the best interests of the child. Although joint physical custody may be agreed-upon by the parties, joint legal custody is what gives both parents equal decision-making power. Joint physical custody is what grants both parents time spent with the child.

Missouri Child Support Guidelines

Missouri standard child support guidelines will apply in virtually every case, unless there is a special circumstance present. The state child support calculations take into consideration the needs of the child and the parents' ability to make payments. Child support payments will usually continue until the child reaches age 18, and the payments may extend through the child’s secondary education.