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.

Child Custody in Nevada: How Courts Decide

August 27, 2025
Few issues in family law cause more stress than child custody. Parents want to know: What will happen to my kids? How will the court decide? In Nevada, custody decisions are based on what the court believes is in the best interest of the child. If you’re going through a divorce or separation in Douglas County, Washoe County, or elsewhere in Northern Nevada, here’s what you need to know about how custody is decided. Types of Custody in Nevada Nevada recognizes two main types of custody: • Legal custody: The right to make important decisions about your child’s education, healthcare, and upbringing. • Physical custody: Where the child lives and who provides day-to-day care. Custody can be joint (shared between parents) or sole (granted primarily to one parent). Courts prefer joint custody when possible, believing children benefit from ongoing relationships with both parents. The “Best Interest of the Child” Standard Under Nevada law (NRS 125C.0035), judges must prioritize the child’s best interests above all else. Factors the court considers include: • The child’s relationship with each parent • Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home • The child’s physical, developmental, and emotional needs • The child’s preference, if mature enough to express it • Any history of domestic violence, neglect, or substance abuse • The willingness of each parent to foster a relationship between the child and the other parent No single factor is decisive — judges weigh all circumstances carefully. Modifying Custody Orders Custody isn’t set in stone. If circumstances change — such as one parent moving, changes in a child’s needs, or concerns about safety — custody orders can be modified. To do this, the requesting parent must show a substantial change in circumstances and prove the modification would benefit the child. Local Custody Cases in Douglas and Washoe Counties Custody cases in Douglas County are typically heard in the East Fork Justice Court or District Court in Minden, while Washoe County cases are handled at the Second Judicial District Court in Reno. Each court has its own procedures, but both apply the same Nevada custody laws. Having an attorney who knows the local judges and practices can make a real difference. Protecting Your Parental Rights At Max Stovall Law, we know how important your children are. We’ve helped parents across Northern Nevada navigate custody disputes with compassion and strength, fighting for arrangements that serve both the child’s best interests and the parent’s rights. If you’re facing a custody dispute, don’t face it alone. Contact us today for a free consultation.

DUI Laws in Nevada: What Happens After a First Offense

By Max Stovall • August 11, 2025
A first-time DUI in Nevada can be a frightening experience, especially if you’ve never been in legal trouble before. You may be worried about losing your license, going to jail, or how this charge could affect your job and reputation. Whether your arrest happened in Douglas County, Washoe County, or anywhere in Northern Nevada, it’s important to understand the law — and what to expect in the weeks and months ahead. Nevada’s DUI Laws In Nevada, you can be charged with driving under the influence if: Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (0.04% for commercial drivers, 0.02% for drivers under 21), or You are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination, regardless of BAC This applies whether you were driving in downtown Reno, on a rural Douglas County highway, or anywhere else in the state. Penalties for a First DUI Offense A first-time DUI in Nevada is typically a misdemeanor, but the penalties can still be serious. If convicted, you may face: Jail time: 2 days to 6 months (often converted to community service for first-time offenders) Fines: $400 to $1,000 plus court costs License suspension: 185 days (with possible eligibility for a restricted license after 90 days) DUI education: Mandatory alcohol/drug education program Victim Impact Panel: Attendance at a panel hosted by groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) If your BAC was 0.18% or higher, you may also be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for 185 days. Criminal Case vs. DMV Hearing One important thing to understand is that a DUI triggers two separate processes: The criminal case in court The DMV administrative hearing about your license These are completely separate. Even if your criminal case is dismissed, the DMV can still suspend your license unless you successfully contest the administrative action. You only have 7 days from your arrest to request a DMV hearing — miss that deadline and your suspension will begin automatically. Possible Defenses for a First DUI Every case is different, but common defenses in first-offense DUI cases may include: Challenging the accuracy of the breath or blood test Questioning whether the traffic stop was lawful Showing that field sobriety tests were improperly administered Demonstrating that medical conditions or other factors caused “false positives” for impairment The sooner you involve an attorney, the more opportunities you have to protect your record and your license. Why You Should Take a First DUI Seriously Many people make the mistake of thinking a first DUI is “no big deal” — but a conviction stays on your record for 7 years. Any future DUI arrest during that time will be treated as a second offense, with much harsher penalties. A first offense can also raise your insurance rates and limit employment opportunities. Local Representation for DUI Charges At Max Stovall Law, we represent clients facing DUI charges in Douglas County, Washoe County, and throughout Northern Nevada. We know the local court systems, the prosecutors, and the strategies that work in these cases. Our goal is to protect your license, your record, and your future. If you’ve been arrested for a first DUI, don’t wait. The clock on your DMV hearing is already ticking. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s start building your defense .