How to File for Divorce in New Hampshire Without a Lawyer (Step-by-Step Guide)

Filing for divorce in New Hampshire without a lawyer is possible when both spouses agree on major issues. New Hampshire has no mandatory waiting period for uncontested divorces and a filing fee of approximately $255. This guide explains every step of the DIY divorce process in New Hampshire.

How to File Divorce in New Hampshire Without a Lawyer (Step-by-Step Guide)

Who qualifies for a divorce without a lawyer in New Hampshire?

You may be able to file for divorce without a lawyer in New Hampshire if both spouses agree on all major issues. New Hampshire offers a Joint Petition for Divorce — the simplest option — for couples who agree on all terms and file together.

Both spouses agree on all terms of the divorce
There is no history of domestic violence or coercion
Neither spouse has highly complex assets such as a business or pension
Both spouses are willing to cooperate and sign documents

New Hampshire residency requirement

At least one spouse must have been a resident of New Hampshire for a minimum of 12 months before filing for divorce. You must file in the Circuit Court — Family Division of the county where either spouse lives.

New Hampshire divorce waiting period

New Hampshire has no mandatory waiting period for divorce. Once all paperwork is correctly filed and the court schedules a hearing, the divorce can be finalized relatively quickly. Most uncontested divorces in New Hampshire are finalized within 3–6 months depending on court scheduling.

Step-by-step divorce process in New Hampshire

Step 1 — Download New Hampshire divorce forms
New Hampshire divorce forms are available from the New Hampshire Judicial Branch website at courts.nh.gov. New Hampshire provides free self-help forms and instructions for both Joint Petitions and individual divorce filings.

Step 2 — File at your county Circuit Court Family Division
File your completed Petition for Divorce or Joint Petition at the Circuit Court Family Division in your county. The filing fee is approximately $255 in most New Hampshire counties. Hillsborough County (Manchester and Nashua) and Rockingham County may have slightly different administrative fees.

Step 3 — Serve your spouse
For an individual petition, your spouse must be formally served with the Petition and Summons. For a Joint Petition, both spouses file together so no service is required. Your spouse has 30 days to respond after being served.

Step 4 — Complete financial disclosure
New Hampshire requires both spouses to complete a Financial Affidavit listing all income, expenses, assets, and debts. This is required even for uncontested cases and must be filed with the court before the final hearing.

Step 5 — Attend the final hearing
New Hampshire requires both spouses to appear at a final divorce hearing. The judge reviews the Permanent Stipulation covering all divorce terms and signs the Final Decree of Divorce if everything is in order.

Required forms for divorce in New Hampshire

Petition for Divorce or Joint Petition for Divorce
Summons (for individual petition)
Proof of Service or Acceptance of Service
Financial Affidavit (both spouses)
Permanent Stipulation signed by both spouses
Final Decree of Divorce
If children are involved: Parenting Plan and Child Support Guidelines Worksheet

All forms are available free at courts.nh.gov.

How much does a divorce cost in New Hampshire?

The court filing fee in New Hampshire is approximately $255 in most counties. For a DIY uncontested divorce, your total cost is typically $255–$400. Attorney fees for an uncontested divorce in New Hampshire typically range from $1,500 to $4,000. Contested divorces with attorneys can cost $15,000–$30,000 or more.

How long does a divorce take in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire has no mandatory waiting period so the timeline depends on court scheduling. Most uncontested DIY divorces in New Hampshire are finalized in 3–6 months. Contested divorces typically take 12–24 months or longer.

Frequently asked questions — New Hampshire divorce

Is New Hampshire a no-fault divorce state?

Yes. New Hampshire allows no-fault divorce based on irreconcilable differences. You do not need to prove wrongdoing by either spouse. New Hampshire also allows fault-based grounds including adultery and extreme cruelty, but most couples use the no-fault option.

Is New Hampshire an equitable distribution state?

Yes. New Hampshire is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally, based on factors such as each spouse’s contributions to the marriage, economic circumstances, and the length of the marriage.

Do both spouses need to appear in court in New Hampshire?

Yes. New Hampshire requires both spouses to appear at the final divorce hearing. The hearing is typically brief — the judge reviews the Permanent Stipulation and signs the Final Decree of Divorce after confirming both spouses understand and agree to the terms.

What is a Permanent Stipulation in New Hampshire?

A Permanent Stipulation is the signed agreement between both spouses covering all terms of the divorce including property division, debt allocation, spousal support, and — if applicable — child custody and support. New Hampshire courts require a Permanent Stipulation for all uncontested divorces.

What if I cannot afford the New Hampshire divorce filing fee?

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can apply for a fee waiver by filing a Petition to Waive Filing Fees with the court. If your income is below the poverty guidelines, the court may waive the filing fee entirely.

Divorce guides in other states

Divorce laws vary significantly by state. Select your state below to find the complete guide.

Legal disclaimer

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