How to File for Divorce in Kansas Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Kansas Without a Lawyer

Kansas requires 60 days residency with a 60-day waiting period. The state uses equitable distribution with relatively simple procedures. DIY divorce is feasible for uncontested cases.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Kansas?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree to divorce
No minor children or agreement on custody/support
Agreement on property division
No spousal support disputes
Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex property division
Significant marital assets
Retirement accounts
Spouse contests

Find Kansas Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Kansas

Step 1

Meet 60-Day Residency

Either spouse must have lived in Kansas for at least 60 days before filing.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

Short residency period
Kansas driver's license
Proof of residency

Step 2

Complete Petition for Divorce

Fill out Petition for Divorce form.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $175-225
State incompatibility
Use Kansas court forms

Step 3

File with District Court

Submit petition to district court in your county.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 day

💡 Tips:

Bring original + copies
Pay filing fee
Get case number

Step 4

Serve Your Spouse

Have spouse served by authorized person.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Sheriff or process server
Spouse can waive service

Step 5

Wait 60 Days

Kansas requires 60-day waiting period from filing.

⏱ Estimated Time: 60 days

💡 Tips:

Cannot finalize earlier
Prepare settlement

Step 6

Exchange Financial Information

Both complete financial affidavits.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List all assets and debts

Step 7

Draft Settlement Agreement

Create comprehensive settlement agreement.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address all marital property
Include custody if children
Both signatures required

Step 8

Attend Hearing

Appear before judge for final hearing.

⏱ Estimated Time: 30 minutes

💡 Tips:

Bring all documents
Answer judge's questions
Usually routine

Step 9

Receive Decree

Court issues Decree of Divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: Immediately to 1 week

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for Kansas Divorce

Petition for Divorce (Varies by county)

Required

📄 Download Form

Financial Affidavit (Varies)

Required

Settlement Agreement (Custom)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Kansas DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$225-325

Filing fee: $175-225
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$3,000-15,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Kansas Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not meeting 60-day residency

Filing before 60 days elapsed

Incomplete settlement

Missing financial disclosures

Frequently Asked Questions About Kansas DIY Divorce

How long do I need to live in Kansas to file for divorce?

Only 60 days, which is one of the shorter residency requirements. One spouse must meet this requirement.

What is the waiting period in Kansas?

Kansas requires a 60-day waiting period from the date of filing before the divorce can be finalized.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Kansas?

Yes, Kansas provides forms and allows self-representation for uncontested divorces.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Kansas, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Kansas Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer