Wyoming Family Laws

At least one spouse must have been a resident of Wyoming for at least 60 days immediately preceding the filing of the complaint, or the marriage was solemnized in Wyoming and one party has resided there since.

The court cannot issue a final decree of divorce until at least 20 days after the defendant has been served with divorce papers.

Wyoming allows divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences between the spouses, or incurable insanity if the spouse has been confined to a mental hospital for at least 2 years before filing.

Courts divide property equitably considering the merits of each party, their condition after divorce, how property was acquired, and burdens on the property. Wyoming is a "hotchpot" state — all property is subject to division, including separate property.

Courts consider factors including the quality of each parent's relationship with the child, ability to provide care, willingness to accept parenting responsibilities, and domestic violence history. The court shall not favor or disfavor any particular form of custody.

Wyoming uses an income shares model considering both parents' net incomes and parenting time. If overnight visitation exceeds 25% of the year, a shared responsibility calculation applies (total obligation multiplied by 150%).

Courts may award reasonable alimony based on the paying spouse's ability and the receiving spouse's need. Wyoming recognizes three types: transitional (retraining), compensatory (reimbursement for contributions to the other's career), and spousal maintenance (standard of living).

Victims of domestic abuse can petition for a protection order requiring the abuser to stay away, vacate the home, and surrender firearms. Violations are criminal offenses.