Ready to start your Vermont divorce? Get your forms organized today and take the first step.
Get your divorce papersWhat Divorce Papers needs to be valid in Vermont
- You or your spouse must have lived in Vermont for at least 6 months before filing (residency requirement).
- You must have a legal ground for divorce, such as 'irretrievable breakdown' (no-fault) or other recognized grounds.
- Both spouses must complete and sign a financial affidavit (unless waived for uncontested cases).
- If you have children, you must provide information for child support and parenting plans.
- You must attend a mandatory parenting education class if you have minor children (unless exempt).
- You need to pay the filing fee or request a fee waiver if you qualify.
How to set up a Divorce Papers in Vermont
- Gather the necessary Vermont divorce forms, including the complaint, summons, and financial affidavits. You can find these on the Vermont Judiciary website or get them from your local family court.
- Fill out the forms carefully. Be sure to provide accurate information about your marriage, property, debts, and any children.
- File the completed forms with the family court in the county where you or your spouse reside. The court clerk will stamp them and assign a case number.
- Arrange for the divorce summons and complaint to be served to your spouse (or have them sign an acceptance of service). Your spouse has 20 days to respond if they live in Vermont, 30 days if out of state.
- If your spouse agrees to the divorce (uncontested), you can proceed with a final hearing. If not, you may need to attend mediation or a contested hearing.
- Attend the final hearing (if required) and obtain a final divorce decree from the judge.
How much it costs
The filing fee for a divorce in Vermont is generally around $90, but it can vary by county. Additional costs may include service of process fees, notary fees, and fees for mandatory parenting classes. If you cannot afford the fee, you may apply for a fee waiver.
Before You Begin: Vermont Divorce Papers
Ensure you have the necessary information and meet Vermont's requirements before starting your divorce filing. This checklist helps you avoid common delays.
- Meet residency: You or your spouse must have lived in Vermont for at least 6 months before filing.
- Gather documents: income info, tax returns, property deeds, retirement accounts, and your marriage certificate.
- Decide on grounds: Vermont allows no-fault divorce (irreconcilable differences) or fault grounds.
- Know the filing office: file with the Family Division of the Superior Court in the county where you or your spouse resides.
- Consider notarization: many divorce forms must be signed before a notary public; check each form's requirements.
- Prepare for filing fees: check the current fee schedule; fee waiver may be available if you qualify financially.
Questions people ask
How long does it take to get a divorce in Vermont?
An uncontested divorce in Vermont can be finalized in as little as 30 to 60 days after filing, depending on the court's schedule. Contested divorces take longer, often several months.
Do I need a lawyer to file divorce papers in Vermont?
No, you can file for divorce on your own (pro se). However, if your divorce is complicated or contested, consulting with a family law attorney is recommended.
What are the residency requirements for divorce in Vermont?
You or your spouse must have been a Vermont resident for at least 6 months before filing for divorce.
Can I get a divorce without going to court?
If your divorce is uncontested and both parties agree on all issues, you may not need to appear in court. Some courts allow a 'uncontested hearing' or even a 'administrative' finalization, but a judge must sign the final order.