Legal Question in Family Law in Missouri

Yes, if grounds exist that would justify the termination of the biological parent's (ex-spouse's) parental rights. There are many ways to do this but none of them are necessarily easy. The best bet is to try to get the ex's consent. Depending on their relationship with the child (or lack thereof), this may not be difficult. It will certainly make the adoption less expensive, and you may be able to avoid the homestudy requirement, depending on the requirements of your jurisdiction.