You Have to Meet Certain Residency Requirements to File for Divorce in CT
According to statistics, there are 1.6 divorces per one thousand inhabitants in Connecticut. (1) If you’re also thinking of filing for divorce, you first need to prepare yourself by properly understanding the legal process.
Before filing for divorce in Connecticut, you have to meet certain residency requirements. Failing to meet these requirements will render your divorce application invalid. As long as you or your spouse have established residence in Connecticut, you will be able to file your initial divorce papers in the state. However, if you want to finalize your divorce, you will have to meet additional residency requirements.
The following residency requirements need to be met before you can finalize your divorce:
- You or your spouse should have lived in Connecticut for the last year before you filed for divorce, or before the divorce decree is signed by a judge
- If you or your spouse were married in Connecticut but moved out of the state, you must return with the intention of staying by the filing date
- The reason for your divorce took place after you moved to Connecticut
- For matters related to children, your child must have lived with you for six months right before you filed for divorce
It can be confusing to figure out if you have fulfilled all the residency requirements, and for that reason, it is always best to get in touch with a qualified attorney regarding such legal matters. There are also some exceptions to the residency rules, and it takes an educated professional to properly understand and explain the details.
Once you meet the residency requirements, you will need to figure out other technicalities, such as whether your divorce is categorized as contested, or uncontested.
Is Your CT Divorce Considered Contested or Uncontested?
There is a significant difference between uncontested and contested divorce. An uncontested divorce makes the process a lot easier since both parties agree to dissolve their marriage permanently, and they agree to most of the details as well. In an uncontested divorce, you won’t have a lot of pushback from the other party, making it a lot less expensive, and a lot easier than a contested divorce. However, you will still have to create a dissolution agreement or a marital settlement agreement so you can document all the legal issues regarding your marriage. These issues include the division of your debts and property, alimony, and child support and custody if children are involved.
A contested divorce, on the other hand, involves a much longer process since your spouse will be fighting tooth and nail to have their point of view heard. There are many sensitive matters that have to be discussed and decided during the divorce process. When the two individuals cannot agree to certain factors such as their finances, their custody arrangements, or their support payments, then the divorce becomes contested.
A contested divorce will have to be resolved in court in front of a judge. If you find yourself in this situation you will need the help of a family lawyer to assist you through the legal process so they can ensure your needs and rights are being prioritized.
Get Help with Your Family Law Case in CT With a Qualified Family Lawyer Today
Are you ready to file for divorce but are unsure of the legal process?
Contact family lawyer, Heidi Opinsky, at the Law Offices of Heidi Opinsky, LLC, today to learn more about the residency requirements for divorce and how you can start the process as soon as possible.
Visit our website to send us a message or call 203-653-3542 now and we will get back to you at our earliest convenience.
References:
1. https://www.statista.com/statistics/207144/divorce-rate-in-connecticut/