Connecticut Divorce Laws

Grounds for Divorce in Connecticut

No-Fault Grounds

Connecticut recognizes no-fault divorce based on:

• Irretrievable breakdown

Fault-Based Grounds

Connecticut also allows divorce based on fault, including:

• Adultery
• Fraudulent contract
• Willful desertion
• Absence (7 years)
• Habitual intoxication
• Cruel treatment
• Imprisonment
• Mental illness

Residency Requirements

To file for divorce in Connecticut, you must meet the following residency requirements:

You must be able to prove residency at the time of filing. Proof typically includes driver's license, voter registration, utility bills, or other official documents showing your address.

Property Division

Connecticut follows the Equitable Distribution (all property) method for dividing marital property.

Under equitable distribution, the court divides marital property fairly, but not necessarily equally. The court considers various factors including:

• Length of the marriage
• Each spouse's income and earning potential
• Each spouse's contribution to marital property
• Age and health of each spouse
• Custody arrangements for children

Child Custody

Connecticut courts determine custody based on the Best interests of the child standard.

Courts consider multiple factors including:

• The child's relationship with each parent
• Each parent's ability to provide care
• The child's adjustment to home, school, and community
• Mental and physical health of all parties
• Any history of domestic violence
• The child's preferences (depending on age)

Alimony/Spousal Support

When determining alimony in Connecticut, courts typically consider:

• Length of marriage
• Causes of dissolution
• Age and health
• Occupation and earning capacity
• Estate and needs

Important Notes

Filing for Divorce in Connecticut

1. Meet Residency Requirements

   Ensure you meet Connecticut's residency requirement of 12 months (exceptions apply).

2. Gather Documents

   Collect financial records, property documents, and information about debts, assets, and children.

3. File Petition

   File a divorce petition with the appropriate court. Filing fees are typically $350-$400.

4. Serve Your Spouse

   Your spouse must be officially served with the divorce papers according to state law.

5. Waiting Period

   Connecticut has a waiting period of 90 days.

6. Negotiate or Litigate

   Work toward a settlement agreement or proceed to court if issues cannot be resolved.

7. Final Decree

   Once all issues are resolved, the court will issue a final divorce decree.

Official Resources

For official forms and additional information, visit the Connecticut court website: