Nebraska Divorce Guide
Clear, Reliable, Nebraska-Specific Family Law Information You Can Trust
Navigating divorce, custody, child support, or court procedures in Nebraska can feel overwhelming. Laws are complex, forms are confusing, and every decision carries serious emotional and financial consequences. The Nebraska Divorce Guide is here to change that.
We provide clear, accurate, and accessible information tailored specifically to Nebraska family law—so you can understand your rights, follow the correct legal steps, and move forward with confidence.
Your Trusted Resource for Nebraska Divorce & Family Law
Whether you're preparing to file for divorce, managing parenting issues, calculating support, or searching for court records, we offer guidance designed for real people facing real challenges.
Our mission is simple: Make Nebraska divorce and family law easier to understand.
We break down complicated legal processes into easy-to-follow explanations, step-by-step instructions, and practical tools.
Designed for All Nebraskans
We proudly support:
- Individuals filing for divorce
- Parents navigating custody or support
- Self-represented (pro se) litigants
- People researching Nebraska family law
- Anyone needing court records or certificates
- Nebraskans seeking step-by-step guidance
Whether your situation is simple or complex, our goal is to empower you with the information you need.
Reliable, Up-to-Date Information
Nebraska divorce laws and court rules change over time. We continually update our guides to reflect:
- New statutes and case law
- Updated filing fees and district court rules
- Changes to Nebraska Parenting Act requirements
- Current service of process laws
- Revised court procedures
While our information is educational and not a substitute for legal advice, we strive to maintain the highest accuracy and clarity possible.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
Divorce and family law issues can be stressful, confusing, and emotionally draining—but you don’t have to face them without guidance.
The Nebraska Divorce Guide is here to help you:
- ✔ Understand your options
- ✔ Follow the correct legal steps
- ✔ Prepare for court
- ✔ Protect your rights
- ✔ Make informed decisions
- ✔ Move forward with confidence
Do I need my spouse’s agreement to get a divorce in Nebraska?
No. Nebraska is a no-fault divorce state. As long as you meet the residency rules and tell the court your marriage is “irretrievably broken,” you can get a divorce even if your spouse doesn’t agree or participate.
How long does it take to finalize a divorce in Nebraska?
Nebraska has a minimum 21-day waiting period after your spouse is served (or after you file a joint petition). Many uncontested cases finish in about 2–4 months. Contested cases with disagreements over kids, property, or support can take several months to a year or more.
Can I file for divorce in Nebraska if I just moved here?
You (or your spouse) must have lived in Nebraska for at least 90 days before filing. If you have minor children, they usually must have lived in Nebraska for 6 months before the court can make custody orders. If you haven’t met these time frames yet, you may need to wait or talk to a lawyer about your options.
Nebraska Legal Process
Step 1: File the Complaint & Pay the Filing Fee
Your divorce begins when you file a Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage with the District Court in the county where you or your spouse lives. You must also pay the filing fee (usually $157–$170) unless you qualify for a fee waiver.
Step 2: Serve Your Spouse
After filing, you must legally serve your spouse with the complaint and summons. Service may be completed through:
- Sheriff service
- A private process server
- Certified mail
- Or a signed Voluntary Appearance from your spouse
Nebraska requires service to be completed within 6 months or the case is dismissed.
Step 3: Exchange Financial Information & Resolve Issues
Both spouses exchange required financial information and address key issues, including:
- Property and debt division
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Child support
- Alimony (if applicable)
Agreements may be reached through negotiation or mediation. If spouses cannot agree, the court will decide.
Step 4: Mandatory Waiting Period & Final Hearing
Nebraska law requires a 60-day waiting period after your spouse is served before the court can finalize your divorce. Once all forms are completed and agreements (if any) are submitted, you attend a final hearing, where the judge signs the Decree of Dissolution of Marriage.
Your divorce becomes fully final once the decree is filed with the clerk.