|
|
Last Modified on Dec 19, 2025
If you are considering a divorce, you are likely asking the question, “How long does a divorce take in Connecticut?” The time involved will vary based on the unique circumstances of your case and the complexity of the issues around property, support, and custody (if there are children in the marriage).
Hire a Divorce Lawyer With Years of Professional Experience
The legal team at Reich & Truax, PLLC, has over 136 years of combined professional experience and can assist with navigating the complexities of divorce law. Our practice focuses on providing representation in family law matters, including divorce, custody, property division, and alimony.
Our attorneys can provide a clear explanation of what to expect during a divorce and will advocate for outcomes that protect your rights. Hiring an experienced divorce attorney can prevent time-consuming mistakes during your case. A family attorney will also handle all communication and negotiations so you do not have to engage in this emotionally taxing process.
Types of Divorce in Connecticut
According to data from the Family Court, 9,555 divorce cases were heard in Connecticut in 2024. There are two categories of divorce in Connecticut: uncontested and contested. An uncontested divorce typically takes less time to resolve and means the spouses agree on the terms of the divorce.
Connecticut recognizes two categories of uncontested divorce: non-adversarial simplified divorce and divorce with an agreement. The process will start when you file the paperwork with the Clerk’s Office in the jurisdiction where you or your spouse resides. In Stamford, the Clerk’s Office is located at 123 Hoyt Street, Stamford, 06905.
In a non-adversarial, simplified divorce, the spouses agree to all parts of the divorce agreement. This is the quickest option when seeking a divorce and may not require a court appearance. After filing the required paperwork with the Clerk’s Office, the divorce can be granted as soon as 35 days.
A non-adversarial simplified divorce does have a list of eligibility requirements that includes:
- The couple cannot have any children
- The marriage must have lasted nine years or less
- Neither spouse can be pregnant
- The spouses cannot have a joint interest in real estate
- Neither spouse can possess a defined benefit pension plan
- The spouses cannot be involved in a pending bankruptcy case
- There cannot be a protective or restraining order between the spouses
- The couple cannot own property valued over $80,000
- The couple cannot have a pending divorce action
A divorce with agreement is an option for couples who agree on all divorce issues but do not meet the requirements of a non-adversarial simplified divorce. This option will require a court appearance, but the couple can waive the 90-day waiting period that begins after filing.
A contested divorce or a divorce without agreement typically takes the longest to resolve. In this type of divorce, spouses cannot agree on issues such as alimony, child support, property division, or child custody. The spouses will be required to attend at least one court appearance.
The steps for pursuing a contested divorce/divorce without agreement include:
- File paperwork with the Clerk’s Office where you or your spouse lives
- If you are the plaintiff, ensure the required paperwork is served to the defendant (your spouse)
- If you are the defendant, file an appearance with the Superior Court
- Attend a court-stipulated Resolution Plan Date
- Attend additional court appearances scheduled by the court
- If both spouses do not agree on the terms of the divorce during the 90-day waiting period, litigation proceedings will begin
How Does a Resolution Plan Date Impact the Length of a Divorce?
A Resolution Plan Date is required by the Connecticut courts in contested divorces. You and your spouse will meet with a court-appointed family relations counselor. The counselor will ask questions and determine if your issues can be resolved or if you will need the court to make these decisions.
If the counselor determines you can reach an agreement, the process will typically resolve quickly. Cases that cannot reach an agreement will enter traditional court proceedings, which can take months to complete.
FAQs
How Long Does the Divorce Process Take in Connecticut?
The time it takes to go through the divorce process in Connecticut will typically be determined by how quickly the spouses can agree on key issues, the complexity of the case, and court schedules. In a standard divorce, Connecticut requires a 90-day waiting period after the divorce is filed. The 90 days begin based on the Return Date the clerk of the court gives you when you file your original divorce paperwork with their office.
Why Is Moving Out the Biggest Mistake in a Divorce?
Moving out can be seen as abandoning the family if you are in a contested divorce case. Moving out of the marital home can also impact child and spousal support and the distribution of property. For example, the court may view a parent who stays in the home with the children as more stable, which could impact the custody agreement. Moving out can also initiate temporary orders for child or spousal support.
What Are the Residency Requirements in Connecticut to File for Divorce?
In Connecticut, either partner who has established residency in the state can file for divorce. Acceptable proof of residency includes a printed pay stub that includes the individual’s name and the name and address of the employer; a statement from a hospital, mortgage lender, or bank; a Connecticut voter registration card, a W-2 form; or a Connecticut handgun permit.
How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Connecticut?
The cost of a divorce in Connecticut tends to vary widely based on the unique characteristics of your situation. Key factors include the complexity of your parenting or financial situation and the level of conflict between the spouses. There are some fixed costs associated with divorce in Connecticut, including a filing fee. This fee can be paid at the clerk’s office of the Superior Court in the judicial district where you live.
Contact an Experienced Connecticut Divorce Attorney to Assist With Your Case
Connecticut divorce laws can be difficult to navigate. A skilled divorce attorney will have relationships with judges, other attorneys, and court staff and be able to advocate for your needs and rights during court proceedings. At Reich & Truax, PLLC, our attorneys have professional experience handling all procedures accurately and efficiently. Contact the office to schedule a consultation.
