Divorce is never easy. It affects not only your relationship but also your finances, your property, and in many cases, your children. At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, we help people in Helena and throughout Montana move through the divorce process with guidance, strategy, and support. Whether you’re considering filing for divorce or you’ve already been served, our Helena divorce attorneys are here to explain how the process works and stand by you at every step.
Filing for Divorce in Montana
In Montana, divorce is legally called a “dissolution of marriage.” To file, at least one spouse must have lived in Montana for 90 days before the case begins. You don’t have to prove wrongdoing — Montana is a no-fault divorce state, meaning the marriage just has to be “irretrievably broken.” Our divorce lawyers in Helena help clients prepare and file all the paperwork, making sure your rights are protected from the very start. We explain what documents are needed, how to serve your spouse, and what happens after filing.
Being Served with Divorce Papers
If you’ve been served with divorce papers, you may feel overwhelmed. It’s important to respond quickly so you don’t lose your ability to have a say in the outcome. Our Helena divorce attorneys can help you file your response, explain what the paperwork means, and begin preparing your side of the case. Remember: being served is just the beginning of the process — it does not decide custody, property, or support. You still have every right to be heard, and we’re here to make sure that happens.
How the Divorce Process Works in Montana
The divorce process looks different for every family, but most cases include the following steps:
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Filing the petition – One spouse files for divorce.
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Serving papers – The other spouse is formally notified.
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Response – The served spouse files an answer with the court.
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Temporary orders – In some cases, temporary decisions about custody, support, or property are made.
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Discovery and negotiation – Both sides exchange information and work toward agreements.
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Settlement or trial – If agreements are reached, the divorce is finalized without trial. If not, a judge makes the final decisions.
Our role as your divorce attorney in Helena is to guide you through these steps, negotiate on your behalf, and fight for your interests in court if needed.
Divorce Issues We Handle
Every divorce comes with unique challenges. Our attorneys handle all aspects of the process, including:
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Property division – Dividing marital property and debts fairly.
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Child custody and parenting plans – Creating workable arrangements for your children.
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Child support – Ensuring children’s needs are met while balancing fairness.
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Alimony (spousal support) – Determining whether support is appropriate and in what amount.
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Modifications – Making changes to existing orders if circumstances change.
Because we work with families across Montana, we understand both the legal and personal sides of divorce.
Why Work With Wall, McLean & Gallagher
We’re not just lawyers — we’re a local Helena team that understands what our neighbors are going through. People across Montana turn to us for divorce representation because we:
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Know Montana’s divorce laws and courts inside and out
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Explain the process in plain language
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Take the time to listen and understand your goals
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Fight for results that help you move forward with stability
Our focus is on helping you through one of life’s toughest transitions with steady guidance and strong advocacy.
Talk to a Divorce Lawyer in Helena, Montana
If you’re thinking about divorce or have already been served, don’t face it alone. Call Wall, McLean & Gallagher to speak with an experienced family law attorney in Helena today. We’ll walk you through the Montana divorce process, answer your questions, and help you make the right decisions for yourself and your family. Request a consultation online or call our office to get started.