How Long Does a Divorce Take in Connecticut?

selective focus of couple sitting at table with divorce documents

Divorce can be a challenging and emotionally taxing process. One of the most common questions individuals in Connecticut face when contemplating divorce is, “How long does it take?” The duration of a divorce process varies based on numerous factors, including the complexity of the case, the level of cooperation between parties, and the court’s schedule.

At Darius Law Group, LLC, our Connecticut divorce attorneys are highly experienced in ending your marriage and everything that goes with it. Whether you need help with asset division, child custody, and the many other matters related to your divorce, we are here to assist you.

Understanding the Divorce Process in Connecticut

To accurately estimate the length of a divorce, it is necessary to understand the steps involved in the process. Connecticut follows a no-fault divorce system, meaning you do not need to prove wrongdoing to obtain a divorce.

Instead, you must state that the marriage has irretrievably broken down. Here are the primary stages of a typical divorce process in Connecticut:

Filing for Divorce

The process begins with filing a Complaint for Divorce (also known as a Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage) with the Superior Court in the appropriate jurisdiction. The filing spouse, known as the plaintiff, must serve the other spouse, the defendant, with the divorce papers. Once served, the defendant has a specific period to respond to the complaint, typically within 30 days.

Automatic Orders and Case Management

Upon filing, automatic orders take effect, which prevent either party from making significant financial changes or relocating children without consent. The court schedules a case management conference, typically within 90 days, to discuss the case’s progress and set timelines for future steps.

Discovery and Negotiation

During this phase, both parties exchange information and documents related to assets, debts, income, and other relevant matters. This process, known as discovery, can take several months, depending on the case’s complexity.

Pretrial Conference and Final Hearing

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If the parties cannot reach a settlement, the court schedules a pretrial conference to encourage resolution and prepare for trial. A final hearing is held where both parties present their evidence and arguments. The judge then issues a divorce decree, finalizing the divorce.

Factors Influencing the Duration of a Divorce

Several factors can impact how long a divorce takes in Connecticut:

Complexity of the Case: Cases involving substantial assets, business interests, or contentious child custody issues may take longer to resolve due to the need for thorough evaluation and negotiations.
Level of Cooperation: The willingness of both parties to cooperate and reach amicable agreements significantly affects the timeline. Mutual agreement can expedite the process, while disputes may lead to prolonged litigation.
Court’s Schedule: The availability of court dates and the caseload of the assigned judge can influence the overall duration. Busy courts may result in longer wait times for hearings and decisions.
Use of Mediation: Mediation can be a valuable tool for resolving disputes outside of court. Engaging in mediation early in the process can lead to quicker settlements and reduce the need for prolonged litigation.

Typical Timeline for a Divorce in Connecticut

While every divorce case is unique, here is a general timeline to provide an estimate of how long a divorce may take in Connecticut:

Uncontested Divorce: If both parties agree on all major issues, an uncontested divorce can be finalized within approximately three to six months.
Contested Divorce: In cases where disputes require court intervention, a contested divorce may take between nine months to two years or more to reach a resolution.

Speak to a Connecticut Divorce Attorney Right Away

To expedite the divorce process, get in touch with an experienced Connecticut divorce attorney right away. Gathering the evidence you need and filing timely can significantly impact the length of your divorce, among the factors listed above.

Our team at Darius Law Group, LLC can help with your divorce. Contact us today for a consultation.