Ready to start your divorce? Download the Connecticut divorce forms today and take the first step towards a new beginning. You can divorce papers with a state-specific template here.
Get your divorce papersWhat Divorce Papers needs to be valid in Connecticut
- You or your spouse must have lived in Connecticut for at least 12 months before filing for divorce.
- Grounds for divorce include irretrievable breakdown, adultery, desertion for one year, or other statutory reasons.
- You must complete the mandatory Connecticut Parenting Education Program if you have minor children.
- Both spouses must provide financial affidavits and other required financial disclosures.
- You need to properly serve the divorce papers to your spouse, or obtain a waiver of service if they agree.
- If you have minor children, you must propose a parenting plan that addresses custody and visitation.
How to set up a Divorce Papers in Connecticut
- Download and complete the Connecticut divorce forms: the Summons (JD-CV-1), Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage (JD-FM-158), and other necessary forms.
- Sign the forms in front of a notary public, as Connecticut requires notarization for the complaint.
- File the completed forms with the Superior Court in the judicial district where you or your spouse lives.
- Pay the filing fee or apply for a fee waiver if you qualify based on income.
- Arrange for service of process: have a marshal or sheriff deliver the papers to your spouse, or obtain a signed Waiver of Service (JD-FM-168).
- Attend your court hearing or submit a settlement agreement for an uncontested divorce; if contested, follow the court's schedule for further proceedings.
How much it costs
The court filing fee for a dissolution of marriage in Connecticut is currently $350 (as of 2023). There may be additional costs for process service, notary fees, and certified copies of your final decree. If you cannot afford the fee, you can apply for a waiver using the Connecticut Judicial Branch's fee waiver form.
Before You Begin: CT Divorce Papers Checklist
Take care of these essentials before you file for divorce in Connecticut to avoid delays and keep the process smooth.
- Gather key documents: marriage certificate, financial records (tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs), property and debt information, and any prenuptial agreements.
- Confirm you meet Connecticut's residency requirement: either you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least 12 months before filing.
- Decide your grounds for divorce: Connecticut is a no-fault state, so 'irretrievable breakdown' is common, but you may also cite other grounds if applicable.
- Complete the required forms: the Summons, Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage, and a Notice of Automatic Court Orders (JD-FM-6), which are available on the Connecticut Judicial Branch website.
- Arrange for service of process: your spouse must be officially served with the papers, but make sure you are not the person who serves them.
- Be aware of notary requirements: some forms must be signed in front of a notary, and Connecticut witnesses are not required for the divorce forms themselves, but notarization may be needed for certain documents.
DIY vs. hiring a lawyer for your Divorce Papers
| Option | Cost | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY with a template | ~$40 | Minutes | Standard situations |
| State-specific template (recommended) | Low, one-time | ~15 min | Most people |
| Hire an attorney | $200–$1,500+ | Days–weeks | Complex cases |
Most people complete their divorce papers online in about 15 minutes with a state-specific template — the same structure attorneys use, without the hourly bill.
Questions people ask
How long does it take to get a divorce in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, there is a mandatory 90-day waiting period after the divorce papers are filed before the court can finalize the divorce. If your divorce is uncontested and all paperwork is in order, you can expect the process to take roughly 3 to 6 months from start to finish.
Do I need a lawyer to file divorce papers in Connecticut?
No, Connecticut allows you to file for divorce without a lawyer (pro se). However, if your divorce is complex or contested, it's wise to consult with an attorney. The court provides self-help resources and forms to guide you through an uncontested divorce.
What is the difference between dissolution of marriage and divorce?
In Connecticut, the legal term for divorce is 'dissolution of marriage.' They mean the same thing. When you file for divorce, you are filing a 'Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage.'
Can I get a divorce if my spouse doesn't agree?
Yes, you can file for divorce even if your spouse doesn't agree. You will need to serve them with the divorce papers, and they have the right to respond. If they don't respond, you may be able to get a default judgment, but the court will still need to approve your case.