How to File for Divorce in Indiana
Complete guide to Indiana dissolution of marriage, forms, and requirements for 2025
Steps to File for Divorce in Indiana
1
Meet Residency Requirements
One spouse must have been an Indiana resident for 6 months and a county resident for 3 months before filing.
2
File the Petition
File a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Circuit or Superior Court. Indiana only allows no-fault divorce (irretrievable breakdown).
3
Serve Your Spouse
Your spouse must be served with the petition and summons. They have 20 days (or 23 by mail) to respond.
4
Complete Required Disclosures
Exchange financial declarations and complete any court-required parenting classes if you have children.
5
Attend Hearings
Attend provisional and final hearings. Indiana requires at least one hearing for divorce cases.
6
Finalize After 60-Day Wait
After the mandatory 60-day waiting period from filing and resolution of all issues, receive your Decree of Dissolution.
Indiana Divorce Requirements
Residency Requirement
6 Months State / 3 Months County
One spouse must reside in Indiana for 6 months and in the filing county for 3 months.
Waiting Period
60 Days
Indiana requires a 60-day waiting period from filing before the divorce can be finalized.
Filing Fees
$176+
Filing fees start at $176 and vary by county. Fee waivers available for qualifying individuals.
Required Indiana Divorce Forms
Petition for Dissolution
Primary form to initiate divorce
Summons
Legal notice to respondent
Financial Declaration Form
Income and asset disclosure
Parenting Time Guidelines
Custody schedule if applicable
Child Support Worksheet
Indiana Child Support Guidelines
Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in Indiana
Uncontested Divorce
- Both spouses agree on all terms
- Finalized in 60-90 days
- Submit signed settlement agreement
- Brief final hearing
- Lower costs
- Summary dissolution may apply
Contested Divorce
- Spouses disagree on issues
- Takes 6 months to 2+ years
- Discovery and hearings required
- May need mediation
- Trial if no settlement
- Higher costs with attorneys
Important Things to Know
Indiana is a pure no-fault divorce state and follows equitable distribution for property division. The Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines provide a framework for custody arrangements. Courts prioritize the best interests of children in custody decisions.
Indiana-Specific Considerations
- Indiana is an equitable distribution state
- 60-day mandatory waiting period
- Pure no-fault divorce state
- Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines apply
- Mediation encouraged for disputes
Ready to Start Your Indiana Divorce?
Splitifi helps you navigate the divorce process with document preparation, expense tracking, and guided support every step of the way.