Divorce in Connecticut
In Connecticut, divorce is a no-fault legal process. You don’t need your spouse’s consent or prove wrongdoing—simply that the marriage has “broken down irretrievably.” Either spouse can file for divorce if one of you has lived in Connecticut for at least 12 months before the divorce is finalized.
The process starts by filing a divorce complaint with the Superior Court and paying a filing fee (typically $360). After serving your spouse, both parties must exchange financial information and resolve issues such as property division, alimony, child custody, and child support. Connecticut has a 90-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized, though this can be waived in uncontested cases.
You may represent yourself or seek legal help to navigate the process.
Do I need my spouse’s agreement to get a divorce in Connecticut?
No. Connecticut allows unilateral divorce—only one spouse needs to believe the marriage has broken down beyond repair.
How long does it take to finalize a divorce in Connecticut?
There’s a mandatory 90-day waiting period, but divorces can take longer depending on whether the case is contested or requires court hearings.
Can I file for divorce in Connecticut if I just moved here?
You can file immediately, but the court cannot grant your divorce until one of the spouses has lived in Connecticut for at least 12 months, or meets one of a few exceptions (e.g., if the marriage broke down after moving to the state).
Divorce Process in Connecticut – Step by Step
Step 1: File Complaint & Pay Fee
Start the divorce by filing a Complaint (Form JD-FM-159) with the Connecticut Superior Court and paying the court filing fee.
Step 2: Serve Divorce Papers
Serve your spouse with official divorce papers through a State Marshal or other legally acceptable method.
Step 3: Exchange Financial Affidavits
Both spouses must complete and exchange Financial Affidavits (JD-FM-6) to disclose income, assets, and debts. You must also address child support, custody, and property division.
Step 4: Final Judgment
After the 90-day waiting period (unless waived), submit final documents and attend a court hearing if required. If everything is in order, the judge will sign the divorce decree.
Residency Requirements Explained
To file for divorce in Connecticut, you must meet one of the following residency conditions:
- You have lived in Connecticut for at least 12 months before the divorce is finalized.
- You moved to Connecticut before the breakdown of the marriage.
- You were married in Connecticut and have returned to the state with the intention of living here permanently.
These rules ensure that Connecticut courts have proper jurisdiction over your divorce case.