Divorce Process: How to File for Divorce in Connecticut
Divorce Process: How to File for Divorce in Connecticut
| Step | Description |
| 1 | Meet residency requirements: Either you or your spouse must have been a resident of Connecticut for at least 12 months prior to filing for divorce. |
| 2 | Fill out the necessary forms: You must fill out a Summons, Complaint, and Notice of Automatic Court Orders. You can get these forms at the clerk’s office or online. |
| 3 | File the forms with the court: Bring the completed forms to the clerk’s office and pay the filing fee. The court will give you a case number and a date for a hearing. |
| 4 | Have your spouse served: You must have your spouse served with a copy of the divorce papers. This can be done by a marshal or by certified mail. |
| 5 | Attend the hearing: Both you and your spouse must attend the hearing. If everything is in order, the judge will issue a decree of dissolution of marriage. |
Overview of Divorce Process in Connecticut
- Grounds for Divorce: In Connecticut, you must have grounds for divorce. Grounds include adultery, fraud, abandonment, and irretrievable breakdown of the marriage (which means there are irreconcilable differences).
- Filing the Complaint: To start the divorce process in Connecticut, one spouse must file a complaint with the court. The complaint outlines why they want a divorce and what they’re asking for (such as custody or property division).
- Serving Your Spouse: Once you’ve filed your complaint with the court clerk’s office, you’ll need to serve your spouse with copies of all documents related to the case.
- Mediation or Trial: If both parties agree on all issues related to their separation (like child custody and property division), then they may not need to go through mediation or trial. Otherwise, couples will need to attend mediation first before going through a trial.
- Judgment of Dissolution: After any necessary hearings and motions are completed successfully by either an agreement being reached during Mediation or by having gone through Trial proceedings resulting in rulings by a judge; A Judgment of Dissolution will be issued which finalizes your separation from your former partner
This is just an overview of what’s involved when filing for divorce in Connecticut. It can be helpful to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through each step and ensure that everything goes smoothly.
Introduction to Divorce Process in Connecticut
- You or your spouse must have been living in Connecticut for at least one year before filing the joint petition
- The joint petition must indicate that both spouses agree about all aspects related to ending their marriage such as child support payments or distribution of marital assets/liabilities;
- If children are involved then a parenting plan needs to be included as part of this paperwork
No matter what type of divorce you choose, it’s important to remember that the process can be lengthy and emotional. It’s highly recommended to seek professional legal help from a family law attorney who is experienced in Connecticut divorce proceedings. They will guide you through the entire process and ensure that all legal requirements are met.
Understanding Connecticut Divorce Law
- Residency Requirements: To file for divorce in Connecticut, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least one year before filing.
- No-Fault Divorce: Connecticut allows no-fault divorce on the grounds of irretrievable breakdown of the marriage (meaning that there are irreconcilable differences).
- Distribution of Property: In Connecticut, marital property is divided equitably between both spouses. Equitable distribution means that assets and liabilities will be divided fairly based on factors such as length of marriage and each spouse’s financial contributions during the marriage.
- Custody and Support: Child custody and support are determined based on what is in the best interests of the child. Factors considered include age, health, education, relationship with parents, and living situation. Child support payments are calculated using a specific formula outlined in state law.
It’s important to note that every case is different and may have unique circumstances that require special attention. Consulting with an experienced family law attorney can provide valuable insight into your particular case.