Pregnancy and Dissolution of Marriage

Susan L. Ward

Potential Changes to Missouri Divorce Law in 2026: Pregnancy and Dissolution of Marriage

As we enter 2026, family law practitioners and clients in Missouri are closely watching potential legislative developments that could impact divorce proceedings. One significant topic gaining attention is the longstanding practice regarding pregnancy during divorce. Currently, Missouri courts often delay finalizing a dissolution of marriage if one spouse is pregnant, rooted in considerations for judicial efficiency—allowing paternity, custody, and child support issues to be addressed comprehensively once the child is born.


This approach, while intended to protect the unborn child's interests, has raised concerns among advocates, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or unhealthy relationships. Critics argue that delaying divorce can inadvertently prolong exposure to harmful situations, especially when an abusive partner uses pregnancy as a means of control. For over a decade, bipartisan efforts in the Missouri General Assembly have sought to modernize this aspect of the law, with bills in recent sessions aiming to clarify that pregnancy alone should not prohibit finalizing a dissolution. These proposals require disclosure of pregnancy but allow proceedings to move forward, ensuring child-related matters are still appropriately handled.


At the Law Offices of Susan L. Ward, LLC, we remain committed to guiding clients through these complexities with compassion and expertise. Family law matters, especially those involving children—born or unborn—require careful navigation to prioritize emotional and financial well-being. Whether you're contemplating divorce, facing domestic challenges, or planning for your family's future, understanding evolving laws is crucial.


We encourage proactive planning and open communication to achieve resolutions that serve the best interests of all involved. If you have questions about how current or upcoming changes might affect your situation, our experienced team is here to provide clear options and dedicated support. Please reach out for a consultation—we're committed to helping you move forward efficiently and effectively while safeguarding your family's health and future.


Susan L. Ward is the founder of the Law Offices of Susan L. Ward, LLC, with over 30 years of exclusive focus on family law in Missouri. Give us a call (314) 783-9400

New Office

By Steve Campbell • May 1, 2025
The Law Offices of Susan L. Ward, LLC Announces Relocation to New Office in Des Peres, MO
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Estate Planning: The Importance of Not Waiting

By Susan L. Ward • November 6, 2019
Recently I lost someone very close to me and it becomes very real that you need to make a plan for your family in order to de-vest yourself of your assets and the other things important to you. Funeral? How to we access the bank accounts not held with your spouse? Who gets the jewelry, beach house, etc.? These are all questions that need to be answered before you pass. Unfortunately the result of not having an estate plan, all of those items go to the court. The court then can charge you a statutory fee, which is a percentage of the total estate, and make decision for your family! No one wants that. While setting up your estate plan, it is important to have a living trust, that you can make changes to while you are alive. It is important to have a will. That way the state or county won’t know what your estate looks like. The will puts items into the trust. The trust are all the secret or important items that you want your family or trustees know. Another important part of an estate plan is the durable powers of attorney. You have heard of health care power of attorneys and how the doctor needs a copy. Keep in mind, if you are not married to your significant other or don’t have the best family relationship, it might not be in your best interest for that person to make decisions on your behalf while you are incapacitated. family member. If you don’t have a durable power people can make decisions for you. That can also apply to financial matters. Also, don’t be afraid that once you sign one, everyone can take over your life. It only applies when you can’t make your own decisions, as an as needed basis. Have more questions? We would be happy to help you in your Estate Plan. Call us today (314) 783-9400 or visit our website to learn more on Estate Planning, Wills and Trusts. Divorced and relocating with your child? See what you need to know here . Wonder how Susan balances two sets of twins and a owing a law practice? Read it here . Did the 50/50 custody law affect your parenting plan? Read what to do here . Visit us at www.stlfamilylaw.com .
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Relocation and Your Child(ren). What You Need to Know

By Susan L. Ward • November 6, 2019
It’s home buying and selling season and if you are divorced with children and are planning to move, it’s time to think about what requirements you need to fulfill in order for your children move with you. What are the requirements for divorced parents when moving with your children? There is a specific law in Missouri that directs how relocation takes place. The simple way to describe it is, you need to let the other parent know, in writing, that you are relocating. Your notice should be sent by certified mail and you need to be within certain time frames of your parenting plan. If you know the school the child will attend, or the move isn’t far from the original location, you can probably put a lot of that in the email. If you do that, be sure to make the other side waive the requirements of certified mail. It is very important not to assume that you can move; because you’ve remarried, have a job opportunity, your spouse is deployed, or you/your spouse is transferred. If you have children with another person and have court orders that govern what that other person’s parenting time looks like, it is important that you consult a family lawyer before you start this process. We would be happy to help you in your relocation decision. Call us today (314) 783-9400 or visit our website to learn more on relocation. Wonder how Susan balances two sets of twins and a owing a law practice? Read it here. Did the 50/50 custody law affect your parenting plan? Read what to do here. Visit us at www.stlfamilylaw.com .