Getting a Divorce in Connecticut: A Simple Explainer

Talking about divorce is never easy, but having the right information can make things clearer. This page is all about understanding divorce in Connecticut.

We’re here to guide you through the basics and make things a little less overwhelming. Don’t forget, there’s also more detailed info and links available on this page.

Divorce Laws in Connecticut

In Connecticut, you can file for a no-fault divorce, which means no one is blamed for the marriage ending. Alternatively, there are fault-based grounds like adultery or cruelty. To file for divorce here, one spouse needs to have lived in Connecticut for at least 12 months.

Connecticut’s approach to divorce has some unique points, like how it handles fault-based reasons, which might differ from other states.

Process of Filing for Divorce

Starting a divorce in Connecticut begins with deciding if it’s no-fault or fault-based. You file in the county where you or your spouse lives. Connecticut has specific forms you need to fill out.

After that, these forms must be legally given or “served” to your spouse. Remember, Connecticut has its own rules for serving divorce papers, so it’s good to know these.

Get a step-by-step look at the process in this article: How to File for Divorce in CT

Child Custody and Support

Connecticut puts the child’s best interests at the heart of custody decisions. Custody can be joint or sole, depending on what’s best for the child. Child support is based on both parents’ incomes and other factors. The state has its own guidelines for figuring out custody and support, which can vary from other states.

Alimony/Spousal Support

In Connecticut, alimony is based on several factors. The court looks at the length of the marriage, each person’s income, and if someone needs extra financial help. Every situation is different, so alimony varies from case to case.

Property Division

When it comes to dividing property, Connecticut uses “equitable distribution.” This means the court divides things fairly, but not always equally, based on various aspects of your marriage and financial situation.

Resources

Interested in more about divorce in Connecticut? Look at the links we’ve put together. They’ll take you to official court sites, government resources, and places for legal help.

For No-Fault Divorce with Mutual Consent:

• Summons (JD-CV-001): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/forms/cv001.pdf
• Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage (JD-FM-16): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/forms/fm159.pdf
• Acceptance of Service (JD-FM-35): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/
• Affidavit of Service (JD-FM-36): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/forms/fm006-long.pdf
• Waiver of Financial Disclosure (JD-FM-88): http://jud.ct.gov/webforms/forms/fm006-long.pdf
• Stipulation and Agreement (JD-FM-89): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/
• Proposed Judgment (JD-FM-90): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/default.aspx?load_catg=Family
• Certification of Dissolution of Marriage (DOH-2168): http://www.jud.ct.gov/divorce.htm

Additional Forms Depending on Circumstances:

• Financial Disclosure Affidavit (JD-FM-86): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/forms/fm006-long.pdf (if not using a waiver)
• Request for Entry of Judgment by Agreement (JD-FM-104): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/
• Motion for Attorney Fees (JD-CL-092): https://www.jud.ct.gov/external/super/courtfee.htm
• Order for Temporary Relief (JD-FM-33): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/default.aspx?load_catg=Family
• Notice of Intention to Resume Prior Surname (JD-FM-27): https://www.jud.ct.gov/directory/juddir.pdf
• Child Support Guideline Worksheets: https://portal.ct.gov/AG/Childrens-Issues/Child-Support
• Parenting Plan (JD-FM-24): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/default.aspx?load_catg=Family
• Request for Appointment of Guardian Ad Litem (JD-FM-25): https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/forms/jm194.pdf

Additional Resources:

• Connecticut Judicial Branch – Family Law Forms: https://www.jud.ct.gov/webforms/default.aspx?load_catg=Family
• Self-Help Services – Dissolution of Marriage: http://www.jud.ct.gov/divorce.htm
• Connecticut Courts Guide to Representing Yourself in a Divorce: https://www.jud.ct.gov/publications/fm179.pdf

Disclaimer

Just a reminder, this information is for guidance, not legal advice. For specific advice, talking to a lawyer is always the best choice.