These items are required to process the filing of a new case:

• Filing Information Sheet* (form 292) - original and two copies
• Filing Fee - cash or money order only
• Original petition or motion ** two hole punched at top. If document is more than one page it must be stapled in the upper left corner. Also two copies.
• Form 17 * (minor children) - original and two copies
• Self-addressed stamped envelope
• Documents for notification of other parties:

1. Check payable to Sheriff in county where party(s) to be served
     OR
2. Motion and Order for Special process server * (form 112 or 251)

Missouri law RS 506.120 requires that a summons must be issued unless an entry is submitted by other parties. If you do not want notification to a party you must submit:

1. Entry of Appearance and Waiver of Service (notarized)
     OR
2. The party's Original Answer * (notarized)

These items are ALSO required to process the filing of a Dissolution:

MO Dept of Health Certificate of Dissolution * - two copies

Additional forms are required depending on the nature of your case.
Consult Supreme Court and local court rules.

• Litigant Awareness Program+ certificate (if self-represented)
• COPE parent orientation program certificate (minor children)
• Statement of Income and Expenses **
• Statement of Property and Debts **
• Parenting Plan (minor children) **
• Form 14 - child support calculation (children under 21) **
• Judgment **

+   If you are representing yourself you are required to complete the litigant awareness program available at www.selfrepresent.mo.gov. You must submit the Judgment to the court for review before a court date will be set. Make a note of the Division number to which your case is assigned. Call the Division Clerk to check on the status of your case after all required documents are filed and approved.

*   These forms are available at www.circuit7.net under the "FORMS" tab. Family law forms approved by the MO Supreme Court can be accessed by clicking on the " Representing Yourself (Pro Se)" link in the left hand column of the website homepage.

**   Free forms approved by the Missouri Supreme Court for use in family law cases by self-represented persons are available at www.selfrepresent.mo.gov. Please note: the forms you fill out will be reviewed by the judge assigned to your case. They may not be accepted if they are not complete, are not completed correctly, or fail to comply with the law.