How to File for Divorce in Connecticut Without a Lawyer (Guide)

Filing for divorce in Connecticut without a lawyer is possible when both spouses agree on major issues. Connecticut calls divorce a Dissolution of Marriage and has a mandatory 90-day waiting period. The filing fee is approximately $360. This guide covers the complete process, required forms, and costs for a DIY divorce in Connecticut.

How to File Divorce in Connecticut Step-by-Step Guide)

Connecticut residency requirement

At least one spouse must meet one of these residency requirements to file for divorce in Connecticut:

One spouse has lived in Connecticut for at least 12 months before filing, OR
One spouse lived in Connecticut when the marriage took place and has returned with the intention of staying permanently, OR
The grounds for divorce arose in Connecticut after either spouse moved there

You must file in the Superior Court of the judicial district where either spouse lives.

Connecticut divorce waiting period

Connecticut has a mandatory 90-day waiting period from the date the divorce complaint is filed and served before the dissolution can be finalized. This waiting period cannot be waived. The court will not schedule a final hearing until after the 90 days have passed.

Step-by-step process for divorce in Connecticut

Step 1 — Download Connecticut dissolution forms
Connecticut has an excellent self-help center with free forms available at the Connecticut Judicial Branch website at jud.ct.gov. Connecticut provides complete divorce form packets for different situations including with and without children.

Step 2 — File at your judicial district Superior Court
File your completed Summons and Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage at the Superior Court clerk’s office in your judicial district. The filing fee is approximately $360. You will receive a Return Date when you file — this starts the 90-day clock.

Step 3 — Serve your spouse
After filing, your spouse must be formally served by a state marshal. You cannot serve your spouse yourself in Connecticut — it must be done by a state marshal. The cost is typically $40–$75 for service.

Step 4 — Your spouse files an Appearance
Your spouse must file an Appearance form with the court within 2 days of the Return Date. For an uncontested divorce, your spouse simply files the Appearance and agrees to the terms without needing to file a formal Answer.

Step 5 — File financial affidavits
Both spouses must complete and file a Financial Affidavit with the court. This document lists all income, expenses, assets, and debts. Connecticut requires this even for uncontested divorces.

Step 6 — Wait 90 days and attend the final hearing
After the 90-day waiting period, the court schedules a final hearing called an uncontested dissolution hearing. Both spouses typically need to appear. The hearing is brief — the judge reviews the paperwork and signs the Decree of Dissolution of Marriage.

Required forms for divorce in Connecticut

JD-FM-3 — Summons, Family Actions
JD-FM-159 — Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage
JD-FM-175 — Appearance form (filed by spouse)
JD-FM-6 — Financial Affidavit (both spouses must file)
Separation Agreement signed by both spouses
JD-FM-172 — Decree of Dissolution of Marriage
If children are involved: JD-FM-166 — Parenting Education Program Certificate

All forms are available free at jud.ct.gov.

Important: Connecticut parenting education requirement

If minor children are involved, Connecticut requires both parents to complete a Parenting Education Program before the divorce can be finalized. This is a court-approved class focused on helping parents understand the impact of divorce on children. You must file a certificate of completion with the court.

How much does a divorce cost in Connecticut?

The court filing fee in Connecticut is approximately $360. Additional costs include state marshal service fees ($40–$75) and certified copies of the decree. For a DIY uncontested divorce, your total cost is typically $450–$550. Attorney fees for an uncontested divorce in Connecticut typically range from $1,500 to $5,000.

How long does a divorce take in Connecticut?

The minimum time for any divorce in Connecticut is 90 days due to the mandatory waiting period. Most uncontested DIY divorces in Connecticut are finalized in 3–6 months. Contested divorces typically take 12–24 months or longer.

Frequently asked questions — Connecticut divorce

Is Connecticut a no-fault divorce state?

Yes. Connecticut allows no-fault divorce based on the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. You do not need to prove wrongdoing by either spouse. Connecticut also allows fault-based grounds, but most couples use the no-fault option.

What is a Return Date in a Connecticut divorce?

The Return Date is a date set by the court when you file your divorce complaint. It is not a hearing date — it is an administrative date that starts the divorce process and the 90-day waiting period. Your spouse must file an Appearance by the second day after the Return Date.

Do both spouses need to appear in court in Connecticut?

For an uncontested dissolution in Connecticut, both spouses typically need to appear at the final hearing. The hearing is usually brief — the judge asks a few questions and signs the decree.

Can I serve divorce papers myself in Connecticut?

No. Connecticut requires that divorce papers be served by a state marshal. You cannot serve your spouse yourself. You can find a state marshal through the Connecticut State Marshal Commission at ct.gov/csmc.

What if I cannot afford the Connecticut divorce filing fee?

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can apply for a fee waiver by filing an Application for Waiver of Fees (JD-FM-75) with the court. If your income qualifies, the court may waive the filing fee and other court costs.

Divorce guides in other states

Legal disclaimer

The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws in Connecticut vary by judicial district and individual circumstances. If your divorce involves significant assets, children, or disputes, consider consulting a licensed attorney in Connecticut.