An uncontested divorce in Minnesota is a divorce in which both spouses agree on all major terms — including but not limited to property division, child custody, child support, and spousal maintenance — so there’s no need for a trial. This cooperative process is typically faster, less expensive, and particularly less emotionally stressful than a contested divorce. When both parties sign and file a Joint Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, a judge can approve their agreement and issue a Decree of Dissolution usually without a court hearing. Sometimes, when there are minor children, there may be a hearing. It is often the simplest, fastest, and most respectful way to move forward when both parties agree on how to end their marriage.

In this instance you’ve already done the hardest part — you’ve talked through the big decisions together. Instead of battling it out in court, you’re choosing to write your own playbook and file jointly, on your own terms.

When you file a joint petition for an uncontested divorce, you don’t need to hiring opposing lawyers or prepare for a trial. You’re creating agreements about parenting, property and finances — and asking the judge to approve them.

It’s the calm, cooperative alternative to litigation — and, when done through mediation, it’s usually the fastest and most affordable path to resolution in Minnesota.

What Is an Uncontested Divorce?

The Core Idea — Cooperation and Agreement

An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on all key terms of their separation and file together using a Joint Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.

There’s no trial, no lengthy hearings, and no adversarial filings. Once your paperwork is complete, a judge reviews it, signs the Decree of Dissolution, and finalizes your divorce — often without requiring a hearing.

Why Minnesota Encourages It

Minnesota courts actively encourage cooperation and settlement. In fact, family cases are expected to go through some form of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) before trial.

As a credentialed Rule 114 Qualified Neutral (ADR professional), I’ve seen how effective mediation can be in helping parties build their agreements before filing. It’s efficient, confidential, ethical, and deeply respectful.

Step-by-Step: How to File for an Uncontested Divorce in Minnesota

Step 1 – Talk Through the Key Decisions

Before filing, agreement must be reached on major topics such as:

• Custody and parenting time (if you have children)
• Child support and shared expenses
• Spousal maintenance (if any)
• Division of property and debts

You don’t have to agree on everything right away — mediation helps you find common ground and clarify what’s fair. If you don’t agree, you can make partial agreements and reserve the areas of disagreement for a hearing with the judge assigned to your case.

Step 2 – Work with a Mediator or Neutral

Even if your divorce is amicable, mediation can make the process smoother. Most Minnesota judges expect couples to mediate prior to requesting assistance from the court.

In mediation, we work through the details together so your paperwork is accurate, equitable and ready for filing.

👉 Learn more: Divorce Mediator Minnesota

Step 3 – Complete the Joint Petition and Agreement

Once you’ve reached agreement, you’ll complete the Joint Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (available from the Minnesota Judicial Branch website). Both parties sign it — there’s no need to “serve” one other because you’re filing together.

You’re not filing against each other — you’re working together.

Step 4 – File Your Forms in District Court

You’ll submit your paperwork to the District Court in the county where either spouse lives.

• One party has to reside in Minnesota for a minimum period of 180 days.
• The filing fee is $365.00 (as of 2025) unless you think you don’t have the ability to pay. You may file in forma pauperis and request a fee waiver.
• Most counties allow e-filing; a few may require in-person submission.

Once filed, the court assigns a case number and a judge is assigned to your case to review your documents.

Joint Petition Forms can be found on the Minnesota Judicial Branch website.

Step 5 – Wait for Court Approval

Most uncontested divorces in Minnesota won’t require a hearing.
A judge will review your Joint Petition and Marital Termination Agreement, and — if everything is complete, accurate and equitable — a Decree of Dissolution will be issued, usually within a few weeks.

If there are minor children under the age of 18, there may be a brief hearing to confirm that your custody and parenting time agreements are in the best interests of the child. These hearings are usually short and straightforward.

How Much Does an Uncontested Divorce Cost in Minnesota?

The cost of an uncontested divorce in Minnesota depends on how you approach it:

• Using mediation: typically $1,500–$3,000 plus filing fees.
• Using attorneys: often $20,000–$40,000+, plus mediation $1,500–$3,000 and filing fees.

Mediation keeps the process collaborative, ethical, transparent and cost effective — no hidden fees, no hourly surprises.

👉 Book a consultation to see if mediation can help you finalize your joint petition quickly and affordably.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Minnesota?

Most uncontested divorces take 6–12 weeks from the start of mediation to receiving your final decree.

If you have children or property, expect an additional 1–2 weeks for court review and approval.
Compared to contested divorces — which can take 6–12 months or longer — this process is significantly faster and far less stressful.

The less conflict, the less waiting — and the sooner you can begin your next chapter.

Uncontested Divorce With Children in Minnesota

If you share children, the process is similar — you’ll just need to minimally agree around custody and parenting time that outlines:

• Legal custody (decision-making)
• Physical custody (where the children live)
• Parenting-time schedule
• Child support and expense sharing

Minnesota courts prioritize the best interests of the child. When parents work together, judges recognize your commitment and usually approve your agreements with little delay.

When parents collaborate, the children benefit — even through unexpected change.

Why Mediation Makes Filing Easier

Mediation prior to filing allows you to work together instead of against each other.

Judges appreciate when parties are collaborative and offer clear, well-structured agreements.

It’s not about giving up power — it’s about retaining control and driving your own process.

Mediation is how you write your own playbook — one that reflects your family’s values, not court directives and orders.

Final Thoughts — Move Forward with Confidence

An uncontested divorce is about collaborative teamwork, clarity, and dignity.
When you lead with willingness, clear communication — with credentialed guidance — you can complete your divorce more peacefully, equitably, with confidence in every decision. And without emptying your bank account.

If you’re ready to explore whether uncontested divorce in Minnesota is right for you, I’d be honored to guide you through the process.

👉 Schedule a consultation — calm, clear, and completely yours.

Uncontested Divorce in Minnesota – FAQs

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for general educational purposes only and not legal advice. For personalized guidance, please consult a Minnesota attorney or qualified mediator.