How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Bridgeport, CT (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)

Divorcing without a lawyer in Bridgeport is absolutely possible — and for many Connecticut couples, it’s the fastest and most affordable way to end a marriage. Connecticut allows spouses to represent themselves (“pro se”) in divorce cases, and the Fairfield Judicial District Superior Court provides a clear process for completing an uncontested divorce without hiring an attorney.

This guide explains every step of filing for divorce without a lawyer in Bridgeport, including required forms, filing fees, timelines, and the statewide rules that apply to all Connecticut divorces.

Can You Really Divorce Without a Lawyer in Bridgeport, CT?

Yes. Many couples in Bridgeport complete their divorce without ever hiring an attorney — especially when their case is uncontested.

A DIY divorce is ideal when:

• You and your spouse agree on property, finances, and parenting issues

• You want to avoid attorney fees of $8,000–$20,000+

• You’re comfortable following structured instructions

• Your situation is low-conflict and straightforward

If disagreements come up later, you can always add legal help — but most cooperative couples finish the process without it.

Two Main Paths for No-Lawyer Divorce in Connecticut

Connecticut offers two approaches for uncontested cases:

1. Standard Uncontested Divorce (90-Day Process)

The most common method.

Requirements:

• One spouse files a Complaint

• Both spouses exchange financial affidavits

• A 90-day statutory waiting period applies

• You finalize through a hearing or an “affidavit divorce”

2. Nonadversarial (Simplified) Divorce (30-Day Process)

Fastest option, but eligibility is limited.

Both spouses must:

• Agree on everything

• Have no minor children (or meet strict exceptions)

• Have been married fewer than 9 years

• Own limited assets

• Not own real estate

Most divorces in Bridgeport proceed through the standard uncontested process.

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Bridgeport — Step by Step

1. Meet Connecticut’s Residency Requirement

To file for divorce in Bridgeport:

• One spouse must have lived in Connecticut for at least 12 months,
  or

• One spouse lived in Connecticut at the time of marriage and returned with intent to stay.

Once residency is met, your case is filed in the Fairfield Judicial District at Bridgeport.

2. Prepare the Required Connecticut Divorce Forms

Most Bridgeport divorces require:

• Divorce Complaint (JD-FM-159)

• Summons (JD-FM-3)

• Notice of Automatic Court Orders (JD-FM-158)

• Financial Affidavits (long or short form)

• Appearance form

• Parenting Plan (if children)

• Child Support Guidelines Worksheet

• Case Management Agreement

• Dissolution Agreement (your settlement)

• Request for Divorce Judgment

• Final Divorce Decree

Local Notes for Fairfield Judicial District

Bridgeport may require:

• Certified copies for certain documents

• Parenting education class certificates (if minor children)

• Additional instructions for affidavit divorces

Divorce.com prepares all required CT + Fairfield District forms for you.

3. File Your Divorce Forms with the Fairfield Judicial District Court

Fairfield Judicial District Superior Court at Bridgeport
1061 Main Street
Bridgeport, CT 06604

Filing Fee

• $360 to file for divorce

• Additional fees for service and certified copies

• Fee waivers are available (JD-FM-75 + JD-FM-76)

You may file:

• In person

• By mail

• Online (for limited document types)

4. Serve Your Spouse Properly

Connecticut requires formal service of process unless the case qualifies for the nonadversarial process.

Acceptable methods include:

• State marshal (most common in CT)

• Acceptance of service with notarized signature

• Service via mail only if approved by the court

After service, file:

• Return of Service

• Proof of delivery

5. Exchange Financial Affidavits

Connecticut requires complete financial disclosure from both spouses.

This includes:

• Income documentation

• Assets and debts

• Retirement account information

• Expenses and liabilities

Judges will not approve a divorce without complete affidavits.

6. Complete Your Dissolution Agreement

Your agreement must address:

• Property and debt division

• Child custody and parenting schedule

• Child support

• Alimony (if any)

• Health insurance and uncovered expenses

• Taxes, insurance, and future obligations

Divorce.com helps you build a clear, complete settlement that meets CT standards.

7. Attend Your Hearing (or Qualify for Affidavit Divorce)

Standard Uncontested Divorce Hearing

• Occurs after the 90-day waiting period

• Very short (5–10 minutes)

• Judge reviews your settlement and forms

• Marriage is dissolved once the judge signs your decree

Affidavit Divorce (No Hearing)

Possible if:

• All paperwork is correct

• Both spouses sign required affidavits

• No disputes remain

• The judge approves without questions

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Bridgeport?

Timing depends on your filing type:

• Standard uncontested divorce: 3–5 months

• Nonadversarial divorce: as fast as 30 days

• Contested cases: 9–18+ months

Bridgeport’s Superior Court is generally efficient with uncontested matters.

How Much Does It Cost to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Bridgeport?

Typical costs:

• $360 filing fee

• $50–$100 for service of process

• $0 if you prepare forms yourself

• $499–$1999 using Divorce.com to prepare all forms and agreements

Hiring a Connecticut divorce attorney typically costs $12,000–$25,000+, making DIY divorce far more affordable.

When You Should Still Consider Hiring a Lawyer

You may want legal help if:

• Domestic violence or safety concerns exist

• A spouse hides money, assets, or debts

• You own a business or real estate

• Child custody issues are high-conflict

• A spouse refuses to cooperate

For amicable cases, most Bridgeport couples complete the process without an attorney.

Why Bridgeport Couples Choose Divorce.com

Divorce.com helps Fairfield County couples:

• Prepare all state + district-required paperwork

• Build a complete divorce agreement

• Avoid mistakes that cause delays

• Navigate service, waiting periods, and hearings

• Access optional attorney support if needed

It’s the most affordable, guided way to complete a no-lawyer divorce in Bridgeport.

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Bridgeport, CT is straightforward when you understand the forms and follow the Fairfield Judicial District’s procedures. With complete disclosures, a solid settlement agreement, and accurate filing, you can finalize your divorce quickly and cost-effectively.

Divorce.com provides everything you need to file and complete your Bridgeport divorce from start to finish.