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

Filing for divorce in Vermont without a lawyer is possible when both spouses agree on major issues. Vermont requires spouses to live separately for at least 6 months before the divorce can be finalized. The filing fee is approximately $295. This guide explains every step of the DIY divorce process in Vermont.

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

Who qualifies for a divorce without a lawyer in Vermont?

You may be able to file for divorce without a lawyer in Vermont if both spouses agree on all major issues. Vermont requires a 6-month separation period but allows you to file before completing the separation — the separation period just needs to be complete before the divorce is finalized.

Both spouses agree on all terms of the divorce
The marriage has irretrievably broken down
There is no history of domestic violence or coercion
Both spouses are willing to cooperate and sign documents

Vermont residency requirement

Vermont has specific residency requirements depending on the situation:

Either spouse must have lived in Vermont for at least 6 months before filing, AND
Either spouse must have lived in Vermont for at least 1 year before the divorce is final — OR the grounds for divorce occurred in Vermont

You must file in the Family Court of the county where either spouse lives.

Vermont divorce separation requirement

Vermont requires spouses to have lived separately for at least 6 months before the divorce can be finalized. You can file the divorce petition before completing the 6 months but the court will not grant the divorce until the separation period is complete. Most couples file immediately and the 6-month clock runs during the court process.

Step-by-step divorce process in Vermont

Step 1 — Download Vermont divorce forms
Vermont divorce forms are available from the Vermont Judiciary website at vermontjudiciary.org. Vermont provides free self-help forms and instructions for uncontested divorce cases.

Step 2 — File at your county Family Court
File your completed Complaint for Divorce at the Family Court clerk’s office in your county. The filing fee is approximately $295 in most Vermont counties. Chittenden County (Burlington) handles the highest volume of cases.

Step 3 — Serve your spouse
After filing, your spouse must be formally served with the Complaint and Summons. If your spouse agrees to cooperate, they can sign an Acceptance of Service. Otherwise use the county sheriff or a process server. Your spouse has 21 days to respond after being served.

Step 4 — Complete financial disclosure
Vermont 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 Family Court.

Step 5 — Wait 6 months and attend final hearing
After the 6-month separation period is complete, the court schedules a brief final hearing. For an uncontested divorce in Vermont, at least the filing spouse must appear. The judge reviews the Stipulation Agreement and signs the Final Order of Divorce.

Required forms for divorce in Vermont

Complaint for Divorce
Summons
Acceptance of Service or Proof of Service
Financial Affidavit (both spouses)
Stipulation Agreement signed by both spouses
Final Order of Divorce
If children are involved: Parenting Plan and Child Support Guidelines Worksheet

All forms are available free at vermontjudiciary.org.

How much does a divorce cost in Vermont?

The court filing fee in Vermont is approximately $295 in most counties. For a DIY uncontested divorce, your total cost is typically $295–$450. Attorney fees for an uncontested divorce in Vermont 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 Vermont?

Due to the 6-month separation requirement, the minimum total time for a divorce in Vermont is approximately 6–9 months. Most uncontested DIY divorces in Vermont are finalized within that timeframe. Contested divorces typically take 12–24 months or longer.

Frequently asked questions — Vermont divorce

Is Vermont a no-fault divorce state?

Yes. Vermont allows no-fault divorce based on the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage with 6 months of separation. You do not need to prove wrongdoing by either spouse. Vermont also allows fault-based grounds including adultery and intolerable severity, but most couples use the no-fault option.

Is Vermont an equitable distribution state?

Yes. Vermont 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 I need to appear in court for a divorce in Vermont?

For an uncontested divorce in Vermont, at least the filing spouse must appear at the final hearing. The hearing is typically brief — the judge reviews the Stipulation Agreement and signs the Final Order of Divorce.

Can I file for divorce in Vermont without my spouse’s cooperation?

Yes. You can file a contested divorce in Vermont without your spouse’s agreement. Your spouse must be formally served and has 21 days to respond. If they do not respond, you may proceed with a default divorce after the separation period.

What if I cannot afford the Vermont divorce filing fee?

If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can apply for a fee waiver by filing a Motion to Waive Filing Fee with the Family 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 Vermont vary by county and individual circumstances. If your divorce involves significant assets, children, or disputes, consider consulting a licensed attorney in Vermont.