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Lesley Manning Gatewood has taken a decisive step toward dissolving her marriage to Brian Mansfield Gatewood by filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in Jackson County on December 30, 2024. Their marriage, which began on September 12, 2020, in Kansas City, Missouri, lasted just over four years before it ended due to irreconcilable differences. Lesley, represented by attorney Alexandra Middlecamp of The Worstell Law Firm, is seeking joint legal and physical custody of their child, proposing a comprehensive Parenting Plan to be submitted to the court. As part of her petition, she also requests child support in accordance with Missouri law, the continuation of health insurance for their child, and an order for both parents to share equally in the costs of uninsured medical, dental, hospitalization, prescribed medication, orthodontic, eye care, ear care, and counseling expenses.
The dissolution petition also outlines that neither party is seeking maintenance, as both are capable of supporting themselves. Furthermore, Lesley is asking the court to divide the marital property and debts equitably, setting aside non-marital property for each party. She has specified that if the case drags on due to any actions by Brian, she reserves the right to request compensation for her legal fees.
The contrast between the finality of their marriage and the close of the year is palpable. While the calendar turns toward new beginnings, for Lesley and Brian, the last vestiges of their shared life are being legally untangled. In the coming months, the court will make critical decisions regarding their child’s future, property division, and the continuation of their co-parenting responsibilities.
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