- Residency requirement
- 12 months before the decree
- Waiting period
- 90 days after the return date
- Grounds
- No-fault and fault-based
- Property division
- Equitable distribution
- Where to file
- Superior Court
Residency requirements in Connecticut
Before a Connecticut court can grant a divorce, residency must be established: 12 months before the decree. If you recently moved, you may need to wait or file in the state where you or your spouse previously lived.
Grounds for divorce
Connecticut allows no-fault divorce and also recognizes fault-based grounds (such as adultery, cruelty, or abandonment). Fault can sometimes affect support or property outcomes, so it’s worth discussing with an attorney.
How long a divorce takes in Connecticut
The mandatory waiting period is 90 days after the return date. Uncontested cases often finish soon after that period ends, while contested cases can take many months depending on the issues and the court’s calendar.
Dividing property and debt
Connecticut follows equitable distribution. Courts divide marital property fairly, which isn’t always 50/50, considering factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and contributions, and future needs.
Custody and child support
Connecticut courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child and calculate child support using state guidelines based on both parents’ incomes. Parents are encouraged to agree on a parenting plan.
Filing in Connecticut
Divorce cases are filed in the Superior Court in the county where you or your spouse lives. Filing fees vary by county; fee waivers are available if you qualify. Most courts post forms and self-help resources online.
Related: How to file for divorce · Child custody explained
Laws change. This summary is general information for Connecticut and may not reflect the latest updates or local court rules. Confirm details with a licensed Connecticut attorney.
Attorney advertising. Divorcesify is not a law firm, is not a lawyer referral service, and does not provide legal advice. Information on this site is general and may not reflect current law in your state. Using this site or submitting a form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Divorcesify matches visitors with independent, licensed attorneys who pay a fee to participate. We do not endorse or guarantee any attorney, and the choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely on advertisements. Read full disclosures.