When you file for divorce in Connecticut, the court opens your case, sets a return date, and starts reviewing your requests about money, property, and children. No two divorces are the same.
Some are simple, but many involve complex issues like dividing property, creating parenting schedules, or finding hidden assets. Our firm helps people through every kind of divorce, from middle-class families with shared homes to higher-asset cases with unequal finances.
Our divorce lawyer in New Haven will explain what to expect and guide you through each step with clarity and compassion. We focus on thoughtful solutions and look out for you as we work to help you move forward.
Filing the Paperwork Starts the Divorce Process
To begin a divorce in Connecticut, one spouse must file a document called a complaint for divorce with the local Superior Court. This complaint includes basic details like:
- Names and addresses of both spouses
- Date and place of marriage
- Grounds for divorce (most people use “no-fault” grounds, which means the marriage has broken down)
- Requests related to children, property, and support
Once you or your spouse files the paperwork, the court opens the case and sets a return date to officially begin the legal timeline.
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Serving the Other Spouse
If you file for a divorce, the next step is to serve the divorce papers to your spouse. This means having a marshal deliver the documents so that your spouse is legally notified of the case.
Serving papers correctly is a critical step. If it isn’t done right, it can delay everything. Our attorney will ensure service is handled properly, especially if your spouse doesn’t want to be found or is out of state.
The Waiting Period
Connecticut has a 90-day waiting period after the return date. This period gives both parties time to think, gather documents, and begin resolving issues. Sometimes, the court may waive this waiting period if both parties agree and meet certain conditions.
During this time, you might start working on a separation agreement, especially if you and your spouse want to settle things outside of court.
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Temporary Orders and Emergency Issues
In some divorces, you might need temporary help before the case wraps up. These are called temporary orders and can include:
- Who stays in the home.
- Who pays bills or debts.
- Parenting time and decision-making.
- Temporary alimony or child support.
If someone is in danger or there are urgent concerns about children, the court can issue emergency orders right away.
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What If You and Your Spouse Agree on the Terms of the Divorce?
When both people agree on all the issues—property, parenting, support—you can submit a final agreement to the court. In many cases, this is the best path forward. It is faster, less expensive, and less stressful for everyone involved, especially children.
We guide clients through mediation or negotiation to reach an agreement that is fair and respectful.
What Happens If You and Your Spouse Don’t Agree?
If you and your spouse do not agree, the court may require mediation, custody evaluations, or hearings. Eventually, a judge may need to decide:
- How to split property and debts.
- Who gets legal and physical custody of the children.
- Whether there will be alimony or child support payments.
Disagreements can make divorce more emotional and expensive. Having the right legal team can help protect your interests while keeping the process focused and respectful. Before you sign on with an attorney, here are key questions to ask a divorce lawyer.
Divorce and Children in Connecticut
If you have children under age 18, your case will include a parenting plan. This plan outlines:
- Where the child lives.
- How decisions are made.
- Visitation schedules.
- Holidays, travel, and more.
Connecticut courts focus on what’s best for the child. Our lawyers use a child-centered approach and help clients build parenting plans that support stability and peace, not just for now, but long-term.
Property and Financial Disclosure
Each spouse must fill out a financial affidavit listing income, assets, debts, and expenses. This is used to divide property, decide alimony, and calculate child support.
Some cases may need deeper investigation, especially if one person is hiding money or has more control over family finances. At our firm, we have access to a retired former detective who can help uncover important financial details when needed.
Finalizing the Divorce
A divorce is final once a judge approves the agreement (or makes a decision after trial) and signs the divorce decree. This legal order makes everything official.
Once the court grants the divorce, both people are free to move forward. However, the process doesn’t always end there. Some may need help modifying custody or enforcing court orders later.
If this is your situation, our family lawyers will help you reach a solution that supports your family’s needs.
We Help With Filing for Divorce and What Happens After
Even if your divorce seems simple, many details can affect your future. A skilled Connecticut family lawyer from our firm will help you:
- Understand your rights and options.
- Gather documents and prepare for court.
- Negotiate fair settlements.
- Protect your children’s best interests.
- Manage delays, emotions, and legal rules.
Our team doesn’t just handle the paperwork. We help you find peace, protect what matters most, and move forward with confidence.
When You Need Answers About Filing for a Divorce, We Are Here
Every divorce is different. Whether you’re facing a high-conflict situation or hoping for an easy resolution, you don’t have to go through it alone.
A Connecticut family lawyer at Happy Even After will guide you through the legal process, help protect your peace of mind, and make sure your voice is heard.
We use over 60 years of combined experience to simplify the process, resolve issues with care, and help you build a stronger path forward. Your Peace Is Our Purpose ™. Let us help you take the first step. Call us today for a private consultation.
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