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

Divorcing without a lawyer in Hartford is completely possible — and for many Connecticut couples, it’s the most straightforward and affordable way to end a marriage. Connecticut allows individuals to represent themselves (“pro se”), and the Hartford Judicial District Superior Court offers a clear path for completing an uncontested divorce without paying thousands in attorney fees.

This guide explains every step of filing for divorce without a lawyer in Hartford, including forms, waiting periods, court procedures, and when you may still want legal assistance.

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

Yes. Many Hartford residents complete their divorce without hiring a lawyer — especially when the case is uncontested and both spouses cooperate.

A DIY divorce is a good fit when:

• You agree on property, custody, child support, and alimony

• You want to avoid high attorney fees ($8,000–$20,000+)

• You’re comfortable following structured instructions

• You have simple finances and minimal conflict

If your situation involves complex assets or disagreements, you may still consult a lawyer — but it’s not mandatory for uncomplicated cases.

Two Ways to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Connecticut

Connecticut offers two pathways for filing without an attorney:

1. Standard Uncontested Divorce (Most Common) — 90-Day Process

This is the default option for most Hartford couples.

Features:

• One spouse files a Complaint

• 90-day waiting period

• Both spouses sign financial affidavits

• Finalized through a hearing or affidavit submission

2. Nonadversarial (Simplified) Divorce — As Fast as 30 Days

Available only if all of the following apply:

• Married less than 9 years

• No minor children (or meet strict exceptions)

• Neither spouse owns real estate

• Minimal assets and debts

• Both spouses agree on everything

Most couples in Hartford use the standard uncontested process.

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

1. Meet Connecticut’s Residency Requirement

You can file for divorce in Hartford if:

• You or your spouse have lived in Connecticut for 12 months, OR

• You lived in CT when you married and returned intending to stay

Once residency is met, the case is filed in the Hartford Judicial District.

2. Gather Required Connecticut Divorce Forms

Most Hartford divorces require:

• Divorce Complaint (JD-FM-159)

• Summons (JD-FM-3)

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

• Appearance form (JD-CL-12)

• Financial Affidavits (long or short)

• Case Management Agreement

• Parenting Plan (if children)

• Child Support Guidelines Worksheet

• Dissolution Agreement

• Request for Divorce Judgment

• Final Judgment forms

Hartford Judicial District Notes

Hartford may require:

• Certified copies for certain attachments

• Parenting education class certificates (if children)

• Specific formatting for affidavit divorces

Divorce.com prepares all CT + Hartford-specific forms automatically.

3. File Your Forms with the Hartford Judicial District Superior Court

Hartford Judicial District Superior Court
95 Washington Street
Hartford, CT 06106

Filing Fee

• $360
  Additional costs may include:

• Marshal service

• Certified copies

• Parenting education classes

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

4. Serve Your Spouse Properly

Most divorces in Hartford require formal service of process.

Accepted methods:

• Connecticut state marshal (most common)

• Spouse signs Acceptance of Service (must be notarized)

• Mail service only with court approval

File the Return of Service after completion.

5. Exchange Financial Affidavits

Connecticut requires complete financial transparency from both spouses.

Each spouse must disclose:

• Income

• Assets (bank accounts, cars, retirement, investments)

• Debts

• Monthly expenses

Judges will not finalize a Hartford divorce without signed financial affidavits.

6. Complete Your Dissolution Agreement (Settlement Agreement)

Your agreement should cover:

• Property and debt division

• Custody and visitation schedule

• Child support (must meet CT guidelines)

• Alimony, if any

• Health insurance and uncovered expenses

• Taxes and future financial obligations

Divorce.com helps you build a fully compliant, court-ready settlement.

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

Standard Uncontested Divorce Hearing

Occurs after the 90-day waiting period ends.

What to expect:

• Hearing lasts 5–15 minutes

• Judge reviews your file and agreement

• You answer simple questions:

  • Residency

  • Separation

  • Whether the marriage has broken down

  • Whether the agreement is fair

If everything is in order, the judge dissolves your marriage the same day.

Affidavit Divorce (No Hearing)

Possible if:

• All paperwork is complete

• Both spouses sign required affidavits

• No disputes exist

• Judge approves without questions

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Hartford?

Most cases follow this timeline:

• 90-day waiting period

• + 1–2 months for court scheduling and paperwork review

Total: 3 to 5 months

A nonadversarial divorce can finish in as little as 30 days if eligible.

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

Typical costs include:

• $360 court filing fee

• $50–$100 marshal service

• $0 if preparing forms yourself

• $499–$1999 using Divorce.com for all forms + settlement agreement

Traditional attorney-led divorces in Connecticut often cost $12,000–$25,000+, making DIY divorce far more affordable.

When You Should Still Consider Hiring a Lawyer

You may want legal guidance if:

• Domestic violence or safety issues exist

• Your spouse is hiding assets

• You own a business or multiple properties

• Custody is high-conflict

• A spouse refuses to cooperate

But for amicable couples, most Hartford divorces proceed smoothly without legal representation.

Why Hartford Couples Choose Divorce.com

Divorce.com helps Connecticut residents:

• Prepare all state + district-required forms

• Build a complete and fair settlement agreement

• Avoid filing errors that delay cases

• Understand service, affidavits, and hearing rules

• Access optional attorney support when needed

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

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Hartford, CT is entirely achievable — especially if your case is uncontested and you follow the Superior Court’s required steps. With complete paperwork, a thorough settlement agreement, and proper service, you can finalize your divorce efficiently and affordably.

Divorce.com provides everything needed to file and complete your Hartford divorce from start to finish.