Family Law Resources

Filing for Divorce in Nebraska

Residency Requirements

At least one spouse must have been a Nebraska resident for at least 1 year before filing (or married in Nebraska).

Waiting Period

60 days after filing before divorce can be finalized.

Grounds

Nebraska is a no-fault state: irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

Mandatory Parenting Class

Parents with minor children must attend a parenting education class.

Family Courts in Nebraska

Family law cases are heard in District Court.

Court Structure

• 93 counties


• 12 judicial districts

Major Courts

• Douglas County (Omaha): 4th Judicial District


• Lancaster County (Lincoln): 3rd Judicial District

Self-Help

Nebraska Courts Self-Help Center available.

Filing Fees in Nebraska

Fee Schedule

• Divorce filing fee: $158


• Service fees: Additional $20-$50

Fee Waiver

Application for Fee Waiver available for those who cannot afford fees.

Typical Costs

• Uncontested: $500-$2,000


• Contested: $5,000-$20,000+

Free Legal Resources in Nebraska

Legal Aid of Nebraska

• Website: legalaidofnebraska.org


• Phone: 1-877-250-2016

Online Resources

• Nebraska Free Legal Answers: ne.freelegalanswers.org


• NE Courts Self-Help: supremecourt.nebraska.gov

Critical Deadlines in Nebraska

Waiting Period

60 days after filing before divorce can be finalized.

Residency

1 year residency required (or married in Nebraska).

Response Deadline

30 days to respond after being served.

Nebraska's Unique Family Law Features

Child Support to Age 19

Support continues until age 19 - later than most states.

No-Fault Only

Nebraska is a pure no-fault state - only "irretrievable breakdown" available.

1-Year Residency

One of the longer residency requirements at 1 year (unless married in NE).

Parenting Plans

Detailed parenting plans are required in custody cases.