How to File for Divorce in Mississippi Without a Lawyer
Complete step-by-step guide to filing for divorce in Mississippi without an attorney. Save thousands in legal fees.
Overview: Filing for Divorce in Mississippi Without a Lawyer
Mississippi requires 6 months residency with a 60-day waiting period. The state requires both parties' consent for no-fault divorce and uses title-based property division. DIY divorce requires both parties' agreement.
Can You File Without a Lawyer in Mississippi?
✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:
- Both consent to irreconcilable differences
- No minor children or agreement on custody/support
- Agreement on property division
- No spousal support disputes
- Both willing to sign joint complaint
⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:
- Spouse won't consent to no-fault divorce
- Complex property disputes
- Child custody disputes
- Fault grounds exist
- Significant assets
Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Mississippi
Verify 6-Month Residency
Either spouse must have lived in Mississippi for 6 months before filing.
- Mississippi driver's license
- Voter registration
- Utility bills
Obtain Spouse's Consent
Both parties must consent to irreconcilable differences for no-fault divorce.
- Mississippi requires both parties' consent
- Without consent, must use fault grounds
- Both must sign complaint
Complete Joint Complaint
Both parties complete and sign Joint Complaint for Divorce.
- Filing fee: $150-200
- Both must sign
- State irreconcilable differences
File with Chancery Court
Submit joint complaint to chancery court in your county.
- Bring original + copies
- Pay filing fee
- Get case number
Wait 60 Days
Mississippi requires 60-day waiting period from filing.
- Cannot finalize earlier
- Prepare settlement agreement
Prepare Property Settlement
Draft agreement on property division.
- Mississippi uses title-based division
- Address titled property
- Both must sign
Attend Hearing
Both parties appear before chancellor.
- Both must attend
- Answer chancellor's questions
- Confirm agreement
Receive Final Decree
Court issues Final Decree of Divorce.
- Request certified copies
- Effective immediately
Required Forms for Mississippi Divorce
Joint Complaint for Divorce (Varies by county)
RequiredProperty Settlement Agreement (Custom)
RequiredFinal Decree (Varies)
RequiredNote: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.
Cost Breakdown for Mississippi DIY Divorce
💰 DIY Divorce
- Filing fee: $150-200
- Service fee: $0 (joint complaint)
- Misc costs: $25-$100
👔 With Attorney
Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases
For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Mississippi Divorce Costs →
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Not obtaining spouse's consent for no-fault
Not understanding title-based property division
Missing 60-day wait
Not attending hearing
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi DIY Divorce
Why does Mississippi require both parties' consent for no-fault divorce?
Mississippi is unique in requiring mutual consent for irreconcilable differences divorce. Without consent, you must prove fault grounds like adultery or desertion.
What is title-based property division?
Mississippi primarily divides property based on whose name is on the title. This differs from states that divide all marital property regardless of title.
Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Mississippi?
Yes, if both parties consent to irreconcilable differences and agree on all terms. Contested divorces are more complex and typically require attorneys.
Need Professional Help?
While DIY divorce can save money in Mississippi, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.