Minnesota courts refer to divorce as the “dissolution of marriage,” a term that you’ll find on most divorce-related forms you must file with the court.
One of many reasons to work with a divorce attorney rather than trying to go it alone through the process is that an experienced attorney will have all of the forms you need and will be able to file them on your behalf.
However, there are some people who collect and prepare these forms themselves before working with an attorney. The best resource to use if you are going this route is to use the Self-Help Center from the Minnesota Judicial Branch. This site features links to videos and other resources that will help you better understand divorce law and how to fill out the forms. Parties can also get packets of divorce papers from a local courthouse or law library.
The petitioner (the person who files the divorce papers in court) will need to prepare the following:
- Summons
- Petition for divorce
- Financial affidavit for child support (if there are minor children)
- Certificate of dissolution
- Certificate of representation (required even if you will be representing yourself)
The respondent (the person who receives the summons and petition from the petitioner) is required to prepare an “answer and verification” form if they disagree with some of the petitioner’s claims, or if they do not agree with the terms of the divorce.
Neither the petitioner nor the respondent should sign any of the paperwork required until they are able to do so in the presence of a notary, who can then ensure the signature is legally binding.
For more information about the paperwork you must prepare to file for divorce, contact an experienced Minnesota attorney at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A.
