Nebraska divorce guide

How to get a divorce in Nebraska

What Nebraska requires before you file, how long it takes, and how property and parenting are decided.

Residency requirement
1 year
Waiting period
60 days after service
Grounds
No-fault only
Property division
Equitable distribution
Where to file
District Court

Residency requirements in Nebraska

Before a Nebraska court can grant a divorce, residency must be established: 1 year. If you recently moved, you may need to wait or file in the state where you or your spouse previously lived.

Grounds for divorce

Nebraska is a no-fault state. You only need to show the marriage is irretrievably broken or that irreconcilable differences exist — you don’t need to prove wrongdoing.

How long a divorce takes in Nebraska

The mandatory waiting period is 60 days after service. Uncontested cases often finish soon after that period ends, while contested cases can take many months depending on the issues and the court’s calendar.

Dividing property and debt

Nebraska follows equitable distribution. Courts divide marital property fairly, which isn’t always 50/50, considering factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and contributions, and future needs.

Custody and child support

Nebraska courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child and calculate child support using state guidelines based on both parents’ incomes. Parents are encouraged to agree on a parenting plan.

Filing in Nebraska

Divorce cases are filed in the District Court in the county where you or your spouse lives. Filing fees vary by county; fee waivers are available if you qualify. Most courts post forms and self-help resources online.

Related: How to file for divorce · Child custody explained

Laws change. This summary is general information for Nebraska and may not reflect the latest updates or local court rules. Confirm details with a licensed Nebraska attorney.

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