The first legal document filed in a divorce is the “complaint.” The person who files this document is referred to as the “Plaintiff,” while the non-filing spouse is referred to as the “Defendant.” These labels are not significant in terms of legal advantages. The purpose of the complaint is to advise the court that a divorce has been filed and what issues are involved (property division, alimony, children, etc.). Finally, the complaint informs the court what the filing spouse would like to be awarded in the divorce.

Step 1: Download the Untie Online Step-by-Step Guide. Pages 3 & 4 discuss the initial legal documents required to file for divorce, including the Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage.

Step 2: Download the Untie Online Workbook. Complete the information requested on Page 3 entitled “Essential Background Information.” This is the information you will need to be able to complete your Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage.

Step 3: Go to the “Forms” tab on the menu bar of the Untie Online Membership website.

Step 4: Click on “Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage” graphic under the “Initial Documents heading”

Step 5: Read the instructions and view the Sample Complaint document.

Step 6: Click the “Draft Complaint” button and prepare your Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage.

When you complete the Complaint form through the Untie Online platform, the Appendix 3 and Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage form will be automatically prepared for you as well.

• Appendix 3 is a form that includes personal and confidential information regarding the parties and minor children. This filing is not part of the court file or made public, however it is required.
• The Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage form (also known as the Vital Statistics Worksheet) must be filed with the Clerk as well. This is a worksheet that will go to the State of Nebraska Vital Records Department. This form is available online to complete as a fillable PDF document. This form can be found here. A PDF of this document will also be emailed to you with your completed Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage
  • Note: You may leave section 12b and section 18 of the worksheet blank.

Step 7: After you prepare the Complaint, you must print it and have it signed before a Notary.

Step 8: File the Complaint, Appendix 3, and the Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage form with the Clerk of the District Court