Divorce in Nevada: What to Expect in Douglas and Washoe Counties

Going through a divorce can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Questions about money, children, and the future can feel overwhelming, and the legal system adds another layer of uncertainty.


If you’re considering divorce in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, here’s a complete guide to how divorce works in Nevada — from filing requirements to final judgment.




Residency Requirements


To file for divorce in Nevada, at least one spouse must live in the state for six consecutive weeks before filing. Residency must be proven, often with a signed affidavit from a witness who can confirm your presence in the state.


This relatively short residency requirement makes Nevada one of the easier states in which to file for divorce.




Where to File


Divorces must be filed in the district court for the county where either spouse lives:


  • Douglas County: Ninth Judicial District Court in Minden
  • Washoe County: Second Judicial District Court in Reno


Filing in the correct county ensures your case proceeds smoothly.




Grounds for Divorce in Nevada


Nevada is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you don’t have to prove wrongdoing like adultery or abandonment. Instead, most divorces are filed under:


  • Incompatibility (irreconcilable differences)
  • Living separately for at least one year without cohabitation




Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce


  • Uncontested divorce: Both spouses agree on all issues, including custody, property division, and support. This is the fastest and least expensive option, sometimes finalized within weeks.
  • Contested divorce: Spouses disagree on one or more major issues. This process can take months or longer, often requiring hearings, mediation, or a trial.




Key Issues in Nevada Divorces


1. Division of Property

Nevada is a community property state. This means all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally divided 50/50. Separate property — assets owned before marriage or received as gifts/inheritances — typically remains with the original owner. Disputes often arise over business interests, retirement accounts, and real estate.


2. Spousal Support (Alimony)

Alimony isn’t automatic in Nevada. Courts consider factors such as:


  • Length of the marriage
  • Financial needs and earning capacity of each spouse
  • Contributions to the household or one spouse’s career
  • Standard of living during the marriage


Support may be temporary, rehabilitative (helping one spouse retrain for work), or long-term.


3. Child Custody and Support

Custody decisions are made based on the best interest of the child (NRS 125C.0035). Courts prefer joint custody when possible, but factors such as stability, parental fitness, and history of domestic violence or substance abuse weigh heavily.


Child support is calculated using Nevada’s statutory guidelines, which consider the parents’ income and the number of children.




Divorce Timeline in Nevada


  • Uncontested divorce: As little as 6–8 weeks
  • Contested divorce: 6 months to over a year, depending on complexity and court schedules




Costs of Divorce


The cost of divorce varies. Court filing fees in Washoe and Douglas Counties are typically several hundred dollars. Attorney fees depend on whether the divorce is uncontested or contested — contested divorces are significantly more expensive due to additional hearings and trial preparation.




Mediation and Alternatives


Nevada courts encourage mediation for custody and parenting disputes. Mediation can help couples avoid long, costly trials while maintaining more control over the outcome.




Modifying Divorce Decrees


Life changes after divorce. Custody, support, and even alimony orders can sometimes be modified if you show a significant change in circumstances, such as job loss, relocation, or new financial needs.



Local Representation in Douglas and Washoe Counties


Divorce is never easy, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Max Stovall Law, we guide clients in Douglas County, Washoe County, and throughout Northern Nevada through every step of the divorce process. From straightforward uncontested cases to complex, contested divorces, we fight to protect your rights, your children, and your financial future.

Petty Theft in Nevada: Penalties and Defenses

By Max Stovall • November 5, 2025
Petty theft is one of the most common charges in Nevada, especially for first-time offenders . But while it may sound minor, a conviction can leave you with a permanent criminal record and lasting consequences for your employment and reputation. Whether your case is in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, it’s important to understand what’s at stake. What Counts as Petty Theft in Nevada? Petty theft — also called petit larceny — is defined as intentionally stealing property valued at less than $1,200. Common examples include: Shoplifting small items from a store Taking property from a friend, roommate, or co-worker Switching price tags to pay less Walking out of a business without paying for services Penalties for Petty Theft Petty theft is a misdemeanor in Nevada. If convicted, you could face: Up to 6 months in jail Fines up to $1,000 Restitution to the victim Possible community service While jail time is rare for first-time offenders, a conviction still creates a permanent criminal record that can affect job applications, housing, and professional licensing. Petty Theft vs. Grand Larceny If the value of the property is $1,200 or more, the charge becomes grand larceny, which is a felony with much harsher penalties. Prosecutors will often rely on store records or victim statements to determine value, so challenging that valuation can sometimes be a defense strategy. Defenses to Petty Theft Charges Potential defenses include: Lack of intent to steal Mistaken identity Wrongful accusation Disputing the value of the property Violation of your rights during the search or arrest In some cases, your attorney can negotiate for dismissal if you agree to pay restitution, attend theft prevention classes, or complete community service. Keeping a Conviction Off Your Record First-time offenders in Douglas and Washoe Counties may be eligible for diversion programs that result in charges being dropped after you meet certain conditions. This option is worth pursuing to avoid having theft on your record. We Defend Petty Theft Cases in Northern Nevada At Max Stovall Law, we’ve helped many clients — including first-time offenders — avoid the long-term consequences of a petty theft conviction. We know how to negotiate for reduced charges, push for dismissal, and protect your reputation. If you’ve been charged with petty theft, don’t assume it’s “just a ticket.” Contact us today for a free consultation to learn your options.

Driving with a Suspended License in Nevada: What Can Happen

By Max Stovall • October 22, 2025
If your driver’s license has been suspended in Nevada, getting behind the wheel might seem tempting — especially if you need to get to work, school, or take care of family. But driving on a suspended license is more than just a traffic violation. It’s a criminal offense with penalties that can make your situation much worse. Whether your case is in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere else in Northern Nevada, here’s what you need to know about the risks, penalties, and possible defenses. Why Licenses Get Suspended in Nevada A suspension can happen for many reasons, including: DUI convictions or administrative suspensions Too many demerit points on your driving record Failing to pay traffic tickets or court fines Driving without insurance Certain criminal convictions, like reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter In many cases, you’ll receive notice from the Nevada DMV about your suspension, including the length of time and any steps you must take to reinstate your license. The Penalties for Driving While Suspended Driving with a suspended license in Nevada is usually a misdemeanor, but the penalties can be serious. For most cases, you could face: Fines: Up to $1,000 Jail time: Up to 6 months (though many first-time offenders receive probation instead) Extended suspension: The DMV will typically add more time to your suspension period If your suspension is related to a DUI, the penalties can be even harsher — including possible mandatory jail time and a longer extension on your suspension. How You Can Be Caught Police can learn about your suspension in several ways: Running your license during a traffic stop Automated license plate readers (ALPR) in patrol cars After an accident investigation Even if you’re driving safely, being pulled over for a minor infraction can lead to a suspended license charge if your driving privileges aren’t valid. Possible Defenses Depending on the circumstances, an attorney may be able to challenge the charge by showing: You were not aware your license was suspended (though this defense has limits) The DMV or court made an administrative error in suspending your license You were driving in a true emergency situation In some cases, your lawyer may be able to negotiate for a reduced charge — such as driving without a valid license — which carries lighter penalties. How to Reinstate Your License The best way to avoid a suspended license charge is to get your license reinstated before driving again. This usually involves: Paying any outstanding fines or fees Providing proof of insurance (SR-22 in some cases) Completing any required classes or court-ordered programs Waiting until the full suspension period has ended Local Defense for Suspended License Charges At Max Stovall Law, we represent clients facing suspended license charges in Douglas County, Washoe County, and across Northern Nevada. We know the local courts, the DMV process, and how to fight for reduced penalties — or get charges dismissed when possible. If you’ve been cited for driving with a suspended license, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s start working toward getting you back on the road legally.