Residency Requirements

In order to file for a divorce in Connecticut, one spouse must have resided in the State for at least one year. A “return date” will be assigned by the court, by which time the responding spouse must file an appearance with the court. There is a 90-day waiting period before a divorce may be granted in the state of Connecticut.

Grounds

Connecticut recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds for divorce. One may file a divorce based on no-fault grounds when the marriage is irretrievably broken or when there has been incompatible and voluntary separation for 18 months with no reasonable prospect for reconciliation.

Fault grounds for divorce include adultery or life imprisonment of one of the spouses; fraudulent behavior; confinement for incurable insanity for five years; cruel and inhuman treatment; or willful desertion and non-support for one year.

Child Custody

The court may award joint or individual custody according based on the parties’ agreement, or subsequent to a trial. In a contested situation, the court will consider the wishes of the child, if he or she is sufficiently mature. Satisfactory completion and participation in a parenting education program may also be a factor in the court’s decision regarding child custody.

Child Support

Connecticut’s specific child support guidelines apply in virtually every case, unless special circumstances are present. Both parties’ gross income and certain child related expenses are taken into consideration when calculating the child support amount. Child support will continue until the child reaches 18 years of age, and may be extended through his or her secondary education.

Mediation

Dissolution issues can be addressed through mediation, which Connecticut courts can require. The parties may agree to submit their disputed issues to mediation at any time, before or after the divorce is initiated.

Filing Fees

Court filing fees are in addition to the cost of using CompleteCase.com. This cost may vary by county. Please check with your local courthouse to determine the exact amount.