No matter how amicable a divorce is, the process is complex. Having an experienced family law attorney on your side during a divorce can reduce stress and ensure you're taking the right steps when ending your marriage.

Fault divorces require one spouse to prove that the other’s actions or behavior caused the breakdown of the marriage. In Arkansas, fault grounds can include:
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-Adultery
-Abandonment for at least one year
-Impotence
-Habitual drunkenness for one year
-Cruel and barbarous treatment that endangers life
-General indignities that make life intolerable
-Conviction of a felony or other infamous crime
-Confinement in a mental institution for a certain period

In Missouri, fault grounds may be raised even though the state primarily follows a “no-fault” standard requiring only that the marriage is irretrievably broken. If one spouse denies this, the court can consider fault-based grounds such as adultery, abandonment, substance abuse, or cruel treatment when deciding whether to grant the divorce and in determining custody or property division.

To pursue a fault divorce in either state, you must present credible evidence supporting your claims. This could include:

-Witness testimony
-Journal entries documenting incidents
-Financial records showing reckless or unauthorized spending
-Communications (texts, emails, letters) that support your allegations

Even with strong evidence, the court decides whether the proof meets the legal standard for a fault divorce. In both states, judges have discretion to determine if the evidence is sufficient to grant a divorce on these grounds.

When facing a divorce, any decisions you make will have a lasting effect on your future. A knowledgeable divorce attorney can help you navigate the legal process and protect your interests. In addition, an attorney can help you understand the divorce process and what to expect at each step.

Working with a divorce attorney can help you avoid making costly mistakes during the divorce process. They can also help you identify and resolve any issues preventing you from reaching an agreement with your ex-spouse.

They can represent you in court and advocate for your interests if necessary. You will also have someone to turn to for guidance and support as you navigate this new chapter in your life.