Wyoming Divorce When Your Spouse Won't Cooperate (2026)

If your spouse won't cooperate, file an individual Complaint, serve them, and proceed through Wyoming's default or contested process. The 20-day waiting period still applies.

Individual Complaint — Overview

1. File Complaint for Divorce at Wyoming District Court; pay $75–$100
2. Serve the Defendant
3. Defendant has 20 days to file an Answer (Wyo. R. Civ. P. 12(a))
4. If no Answer: file Motion for Default
5. Proceed to default hearing or submit on papers
6. Decree of Divorce entered

Service Options

Option 1 — Acceptance of Service

Ask your spouse to sign an Acceptance of Service form. Fastest option.

Option 2 — Process Server

Private process server. Cost: ~$75–$150.

Option 3 — County Sheriff

Wyoming county sheriff can serve. Cost: ~$30–$60.

Option 4 — Publication

If your spouse cannot be located after diligent search:

1. File Motion for Service by Publication with Affidavit of Due Diligence
2. Court grants permission
3. Publish notice in Wyoming newspaper approved by court
4. File Affidavit of Publication

After Service — 20-Day Response Deadline

The Defendant has 20 days after personal service to file an Answer (Wyo. R. Civ. P. 12(a)). File a Motion for Default if no Answer is received.

Default Process

1. File Motion for Default after 20-day deadline
2. Default entered against Defendant
3. Proceed to default hearing or submit proposed Decree on papers
4. Present evidence of residency, grounds (irreconcilable differences), and proposed property division
5. Judge enters Decree of Divorce by default

20-Day Waiting Period — Still Applies

Wyoming's 20-day waiting period applies in default cases as well. Count from the date of service.

Temporary Orders

File a Motion for Temporary Orders during the case:

• Temporary alimony/spousal support
• Exclusive possession of the marital home
• Temporary custody and child support (if children)
• Injunction against dissipation of marital assets

Last reviewed: March 2026 | 60-day residency (Wyo. Stat. § 20-2-107) | 20-day waiting period | 20-day response deadline (Wyo. R. Civ. P. 12(a)) | Default hearing required | Equitable distribution (Wyo. Stat. § 20-2-114) | Temporary orders available | District Court | courts.state.wy.us/court-self-help | wyolaw.org

Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.