Iowa · District Court — Family Division
Iowa family court, without the confusion.
Iowa District Court handles dissolution of marriage, custody, child support, and protective orders.
We walk you through exactly what to fill out, in plain English, and produce the forms ready to sign and file.
Where do you need help?
Coming soon
Divorce / Dissolution of Marriage
Start or respond to a divorce case. Covers petition, financial disclosure, and the complete filing packet.
Coming soon
Child Custody / Parenting Time
Establish custody and parenting time when you were never married or as part of a divorce.
Coming soon
Modify Custody or Parenting Time
Change an existing custody or parenting time order when circumstances have significantly changed.
Coming soon
Child Support
Establish or modify a child support order.
Coming soon
Establish Paternity
Legally establish parentage when the parents were not married.
Coming soon
Protective Order
Get an emergency order to protect yourself or your children from domestic violence or harassment.
Coming soon
Relocation (Moving with Children)
Request court approval to move with your children, or oppose a move.
Coming soon
Enforce a Court Order
Bring the other party back to court when they are violating an existing order.
Coming soon
Name Change
Change your name or your child's name through the court.
Coming soon
Spousal Support / Alimony
Request or respond to a request for spousal support or alimony.
What Iowa requires — before you file
1
1-year residency. You must have lived in Iowa for at least 1 year before filing for dissolution, unless your spouse is an Iowa resident.
2
90-day waiting period. Iowa requires a 90-day waiting period from the date of service before a dissolution decree can enter.
3
Financial disclosure required. Both parties must disclose income, assets, and debts.
Iowa says 'dissolution of marriage' not divorce. Iowa uses 'legal custody' and 'physical custody.'
All 15 Iowa Counties
Iowa family law forms are filed in the county District Court where you or the respondent lives.
Polk
Linn
Scott
Johnson
Black Hawk
Dubuque
Story
Woodbury
Dallas
Pottawattamie
Cerro Gordo
Warren
Clinton
Webster
Jasper