How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in New Haven, CT: The Real DIY Guide

You're sitting in your car outside Target on Whalley Avenue Googling "how to file for divorce myself" because you just looked at how much New Haven lawyers charge and there's no way you can afford $10,000 right now.

Here's the truth: a lot of New Haven divorces don't need lawyers. But "don't need" and "easy" are different things. Connecticut divorce forms are complicated.

Can You Actually Do This Yourself?

Yes. Connecticut lets you file without a lawyer. New Haven Superior Court processes hundreds of DIY divorces.

But DIY only works if you and your spouse agree on basically everything.

When DIY Makes Sense

Good candidate if: Both agree it's over. No kids under 18 or simple custody. Assets are simple. Similar incomes. Nobody's hiding anything. Can talk without fighting.

The Connecticut Process

You're filing: Complaint, Summons, Affidavit Concerning Children (if kids), Financial Affidavit, Separation Agreement, Dissolution Decree.

Connecticut requires 90-day waiting period from filing. You're waiting 90 days minimum.

Filing Fee

Connecticut costs $360. Can't afford it? File Application for Waiver of Fees.

Serving Your Spouse

Connecticut requires formal service. You can't serve yourself.

Options: State marshal ($60-$150), process server, or Acknowledgment of Service (if cooperating).

What Could Go Wrong

You divide property wrong. Connecticut's equitable distribution is specific.

Tax implications. Agree to something unfair. Custody plan too vague.

When to Hire a Lawyer

Probably need help if: Fighting about custody, own house in East Rock or Westville, Yale benefits, big income gap, spouse has lawyer, domestic violence, or completely lost.

Using Divorce.com

Flat fee $499-$1,999 depending on package. They walk you through Connecticut forms. Make sure everything's right for New Haven Superior Court. They handle filing and service of process for you.

Works if you both agree. Not legal advice. They help with forms.

Total with Divorce.com: $859-$2,359 (Divorce.com fee + $360 filing - service included)

The Bottom Line

Can you divorce without a lawyer in New Haven? Yes. Should you? Depends.

If you both genuinely agree and situation is simple, DIY ($445-$570) or Divorce.com ($859-$2,359) saves thousands.

If there's complexity—New Haven real estate, Yale benefits—you need help.