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

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Nebraska Without a Lawyer

Nebraska requires 1 year residency with a 60-day waiting period. The state is pure no-fault using equitable distribution. DIY divorce is achievable for straightforward uncontested cases.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Nebraska?

✓ 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 Nebraska Divorce Lawyers →

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

Step 1

Verify 1-Year Residency

Either spouse must have lived in Nebraska for 1 year before filing.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

Longer residency requirement
Nebraska driver's license
Proof of residency

Step 2

Complete Petition for Dissolution

Fill out Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $150-180
State irretrievable breakdown
Use Nebraska 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

Nebraska requires 60-day waiting period from service.

⏱ Estimated Time: 60 days

💡 Tips:

Cannot finalize earlier
Prepare settlement

Step 6

Exchange Financial Information

Both complete financial affidavits.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List all assets and debts

Step 7

Draft Settlement Agreement

Create comprehensive property settlement.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address all marital property
Include custody if children
Both must sign

Step 8

Attend Hearing

Appear before judge for final hearing.

⏱ Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes

💡 Tips:

May be required
Bring all documents
Answer judge's questions

Step 9

Receive Decree

Court issues Decree of Dissolution.

⏱ Estimated Time: Immediately to 1 week

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for Nebraska Divorce

Petition for Dissolution (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 Nebraska DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$200-280

Filing fee: $150-180
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 Nebraska Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not meeting 1-year residency

Missing 60-day wait

Incomplete financial disclosures

Not addressing all property

Frequently Asked Questions About Nebraska DIY Divorce

Why does Nebraska have a 1-year residency requirement?

Nebraska is one of several states with a 1-year residency requirement. This is longer than many states but exceptions exist for military personnel.

Is Nebraska a no-fault divorce state?

Yes, Nebraska is a pure no-fault state. You only need to state that the marriage is irretrievably broken.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Nebraska?

Yes, Nebraska provides forms and allows self-representation for uncontested cases.

Need Professional Help?

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

Find Nebraska Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer