Disclaimer: All facts gleaned from the filings stated hereafter are only as truthful as the petitioner. The tone of this article expresses a style of writing historically employed by America’s greatest writers and, as such, is for opinion purposes only. No intentional harm is due. Do not read if the topic of divorce (even your own) causes you emotional distress. Continue at your own risk.
The unraveling of a marriage that once held promise has now reached the legal corridors of Jackson County, Missouri. On March 6, 2025, Michael David Kirkland formally filed a petition for dissolution of marriage against Aletha Rose Kirkland, asserting that their nearly 14-year union is beyond repair. Represented by attorney R. Scott Richart of Albano Richart Welch & Bajackson, LLC, Michael lays out the contours of a life that has come apart at the seams.
The couple, married on June 19, 2011, shared a home in Independence but have, in spirit, already separated since February 2025. In his petition, Michael claims that their marriage is irretrievably broken and seeks sole legal and physical custody of their minor child, citing Aletha’s alleged illicit drug use and unstable mental state. The child, he argues, would be best served under his full guardianship, with his residence designated as the official address for all educational and mailing purposes.
Michael also requests that Aletha be ordered to provide child support, with payments deducted directly from her wages when she becomes employed. Additionally, he asks the court to ensure that she contributes to the child’s medical, dental, and counseling expenses. He further calls for a fair division of marital assets and debts while maintaining that neither party should be awarded maintenance or attorney’s fees.
While some relationships dissolve quietly, others leave behind a paper trail of grievances and counterclaims. The case now awaits its turn before the court, where the future of a fractured family will be decided by legal decree.
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