SIMPLIFYING YOUR DIVORCE
Connecticut Divorce Papers
Filing for divorce in Connecticut can feel overwhelming, especially when you're staring at a list of court forms with unfamiliar numbers and legal-sounding titles. Take a breath — this guide is here to walk you through it in plain language. Whether you and your spouse agree on everything or you're still working through the details, knowing which forms exist and what each one does is the first step toward feeling more in control of the process.
Connecticut keeps things relatively organized compared to many states: the Judicial Branch publishes a single set of standardized forms that are used statewide, so you won't be hunting for different paperwork depending on which county you live in. The state also offers two distinct paths — a traditional divorce track and a streamlined nonadversarial track for couples who meet specific eligibility limits.
Below, we'll cover the main Connecticut divorce forms, where to find them, how the process generally flows, and the state-specific rules that set Connecticut apart. We'll also point out a few common mistakes that trip people up. This is general information about how the forms and process work — it is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult an attorney.
Which Connecticut Divorce Forms Will You Need?
The exact forms you'll need depend on your circumstances — whether you have minor children, real estate, or a full agreement with your spouse, and whether you qualify for Connecticut's simplified nonadversarial track. Connecticut's forms are standardized statewide through the Judicial Branch, so the same form numbers apply everywhere in the state. Here's what the most common forms are and what each one does. This is informational only; for advice on which forms fit your situation, consult an attorney.
Starting the Case
Summons Family Actions (JD-FM-3)
Initiates the divorce action and is served on the respondent spouse along with the complaint.
Divorce Complaint (Dissolution of Marriage) (JD-FM-159)
The formal petition filed by the plaintiff spouse to begin divorce proceedings.
Notice of Automatic Court Orders (JD-FM-158)
A mandatory notice of the automatic restraining orders that take effect upon filing — for example, orders prohibiting either spouse from disposing of certain assets.
Motion for Orders Before Judgment (Pendente Lite) in Family Cases (JD-FM-176)
Used to request temporary court orders for support, custody, or use of property while the case is still pending.
Joint Petition – Nonadversarial Divorce (Dissolution of Marriage) (JD-FM-242)
Used instead of a complaint and summons when both spouses jointly file under Connecticut's simplified nonadversarial divorce track.
Responding to the Case
Dissolution Answer (JD-FM-160)
The respondent spouse's formal answer or response to the divorce complaint.
Appearance (JD-CL-12)
Filed by the responding spouse to formally enter an appearance in the case.
Certification of Waiver of Service of Process – Divorce, Legal Separation, Annulment (JD-FM-249)
Used when the respondent spouse waives formal service of process.
Financial & Disclosure Forms
Financial Affidavit (JD-FM-6)
A mandatory financial disclosure required from each spouse. It comes in two versions: the short form (JD-FM-6-SHORT) is used when both gross annual income and total net assets are each under $75,000, and the long form (JD-FM-6-LONG) is used when either gross annual income or total net assets is $75,000 or more.
Forms for Divorces With Children
If you have minor children, Connecticut requires several additional forms covering custody, support, and a mandatory parenting education program.
Affidavit Concerning Children (JD-FM-164)
Discloses information about minor children, including any prior custody proceedings. Required in cases involving minor children.
Worksheet for the Connecticut Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines (CCSG-1)
The child support calculation worksheet required in all cases involving minor children. Connecticut does not use a separate numbered "child support form" — support is computed on this worksheet, which applies the state's income-shares guidelines.
Advisement of Rights Re: Income Withholding (JD-FM-71)
Advises the parties of income withholding rights for child support. Required when minor children are involved.
Custody Agreement and Parenting Plan (JD-FM-284)
Sets out the legal and physical custody arrangements and the parenting schedule for minor children.
Parenting Education Program – Order, Certificate and Results (JD-FM-149)
The certificate documenting completion of Connecticut's mandatory parenting education program. Each spouse must complete a state-approved program in cases involving minor children.
Settlement or Separation Agreement
Dissolution/Legal Separation Agreement (JD-FM-172)
The full settlement agreement covering division of property and debt, alimony, and — where applicable — custody and child support.
Agreement – Nonadversarial Divorce (JD-FM-243)
The settlement agreement form specific to the nonadversarial divorce track.
Finalizing Your Case
Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce) Judgment (JD-FM-177)
The final judgment, or decree, of dissolution entered by the court that legally ends the marriage.
Where to Get Connecticut Divorce Forms
Connecticut's divorce forms are available from several sources. Because the state uses standardized statewide forms, you don't need county-specific versions.
Official State Courts Website
The Connecticut Judicial Branch publishes the complete, current set of family forms for free. You can download them directly from the official forms page at jud.ct.gov. This is the authoritative source, and using the most recent version of each form helps avoid rejected filings.
Superior Court Clerk's Office
Divorce cases in Connecticut are handled in the Superior Court. The clerk's office can provide printed forms and answer general procedural questions about filing, though clerks cannot give legal advice.
Legal Aid & Court Self-Help Resources
Connecticut's Judicial Branch maintains self-help materials and Court Service Centers, and legal aid organizations may assist those who qualify. These resources can help you understand the forms and the process without representing you.
Online Divorce Services (Divorce.com)
If you'd rather not assemble the paperwork yourself, Divorce.com can help you prepare your Connecticut divorce forms by guiding you through a simple questionnaire and generating completed documents based on your answers. It's a convenient middle ground between going it alone and hiring an attorney.
Hire an Attorney
For contested cases, complex assets, or situations where you want personalized legal guidance, a Connecticut family law attorney can prepare and file forms on your behalf and advise you on your specific circumstances.
The Connecticut Divorce Process
While every case is different, most Connecticut divorces follow a similar sequence. Here's a general overview of how the process tends to flow.
1. Meet the Residency Requirement
At least one spouse must be a Connecticut resident. A complaint can be filed as soon as residency is established, but the court generally cannot enter a final decree until one spouse has lived in Connecticut for at least 12 consecutive months. (More on the exceptions below.)
2. File the Initial Forms
The case typically begins by filing the complaint, summons, and notice of automatic court orders — or, for eligible couples, the joint nonadversarial petition. Filing triggers automatic restraining orders that apply to both spouses.
3. Serve the Other Spouse
In a traditional divorce, the respondent spouse is served with the summons and complaint. The respondent can then file an appearance and, if they choose, an answer. When both spouses cooperate, service may be waived using the waiver form.
4. Exchange Financial Disclosures
Each spouse completes a Financial Affidavit (short or long form, depending on income and assets). In cases with minor children, the child support worksheet and related children's forms are also prepared.
5. Observe the Waiting Period
Connecticut has a waiting period from the return date before a dissolution decree can be entered. This waiting period can be waived by the court when the spouses have reached a full agreement on all terms. Couples on the nonadversarial track can often complete the process in roughly 35 days without appearing before a judge.
6. Finalize the Decree & Get Certified Copies
Once any agreement is reviewed and the waiting period is satisfied or waived, the court enters the dissolution judgment. After the divorce is final, you can request certified copies of the judgment for your records and for changing names, accounts, or beneficiaries.
Connecticut-Specific Requirements You Should Know
Connecticut has a few rules and features that set it apart. Understanding them up front can help you avoid surprises.
Residency. At least one spouse must be a Connecticut resident. A complaint may be filed immediately upon establishing residency, but the court generally cannot enter a final decree until one spouse has been a Connecticut resident for at least 12 consecutive months (CGS § 46b-44). There are exceptions: if the grounds for divorce arose in Connecticut, or if one party was domiciled in Connecticut at the time of marriage and returns intending to remain permanently, the court may proceed without the 12-month requirement.
Property division. Connecticut is an equitable distribution state. This means marital property is divided in a way the court considers fair, which is not always an equal 50/50 split.
Grounds for divorce. Connecticut allows no-fault divorce based on (1) the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, or (2) living apart due to incompatibility for a continuous period of at least 18 months with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation. Fault grounds also exist under CGS § 46b-40, including adultery; fraudulent contract; willful desertion for one year with total neglect of duty; seven years' absence without word from the absent spouse; habitual intemperance; intolerable cruelty; a life sentence or conviction of certain infamous crimes involving a violation of conjugal duty; and legal confinement due to mental illness.
Waiting period. A waiting period from the return date applies before a decree can enter (CGS § 46b-67), and it can be waived by the court when all terms are fully agreed.
Two procedural tracks. Connecticut offers two distinct paths. The traditional divorce uses the Pathways Process — a case-management system (implemented in 2021 and applied statewide to all Superior Court family matters) with Track A for minimal involvement, Track B for moderate, and Track C for highly contested cases, each involving a Resolution Plan Date meeting with a Family Relations Counselor. The nonadversarial (simplified) divorce is available only to couples who meet strict limits: married 9 years or less, no minor children, no real property, combined net assets under $80,000, no pensions, no Medicaid, no restraining orders, and no bankruptcy. Qualifying couples file jointly, do not need to appear before a judge, and can finish in roughly 35 days. Couples who don't qualify use the traditional track. Note that a Notice of Revocation (JD-FM-244/JD-FM-245) lets either party back out of the nonadversarial process before a decree is entered.
Parenting education. Connecticut requires a mandatory parenting education program (CGS § 46b-69b) for all divorcing parents with minor children. Each spouse must complete a state-approved program and file the completion certificate (JD-FM-149). Connecticut is not a covenant marriage state and has no conciliation requirement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming you qualify for the nonadversarial track
The simplified track has strict eligibility limits — marriage length (9 years or less), no children, no real property, an asset cap, and more. If even one limit doesn't apply to you, the traditional track is required.
Using the wrong Financial Affidavit
The Financial Affidavit comes in a short form and a long form. Use the short form only if both your gross annual income and your total net assets are each under $75,000. If either figure reaches or exceeds $75,000, use the long form. Using the wrong version can cause delays.
Overlooking the parenting education requirement
In cases with minor children, each parent must complete the state-approved parenting education program and file the certificate (JD-FM-149). Forgetting this step can hold up your case.
Missing the residency timing rule
While you can file a complaint as soon as you establish residency, the court generally cannot finalize the divorce until the 12-month residency requirement is met — unless an exception applies.
Using outdated forms
Because Connecticut updates its standardized forms, downloading the current versions from the official Judicial Branch site helps prevent rejected filings.
How Divorce.com Can Help
Gathering, completing, and tracking Connecticut's divorce forms takes time and attention to detail. Divorce.com is designed to make that part easier by guiding you step by step and preparing your documents based on your answers — so you can focus on moving forward rather than deciphering form numbers. Here's what you can expect:
A simple online questionnaire that walks you through your information at your own pace
Completed Connecticut divorce documents generated from your answers
Plain-language guidance so you understand what each form does
An affordable alternative to handling everything alone or hiring a full-service attorney
Support designed around Connecticut's statewide forms and process
Which Connecticut Divorce Forms Will You Need?
The exact forms you'll need depend on your circumstances — whether you have minor children, real estate, or a full agreement with your spouse, and whether you qualify for Connecticut's simplified nonadversarial track. Connecticut's forms are standardized statewide through the Judicial Branch, so the same form numbers apply everywhere in the state. Here's what the most common forms are and what each one does. This is informational only; for advice on which forms fit your situation, consult an attorney.
Starting the Case
Summons Family Actions (JD-FM-3)
Initiates the divorce action and is served on the respondent spouse along with the complaint.
Divorce Complaint (Dissolution of Marriage) (JD-FM-159)
The formal petition filed by the plaintiff spouse to begin divorce proceedings.
Notice of Automatic Court Orders (JD-FM-158)
A mandatory notice of the automatic restraining orders that take effect upon filing — for example, orders prohibiting either spouse from disposing of certain assets.
Motion for Orders Before Judgment (Pendente Lite) in Family Cases (JD-FM-176)
Used to request temporary court orders for support, custody, or use of property while the case is still pending.
Joint Petition – Nonadversarial Divorce (Dissolution of Marriage) (JD-FM-242)
Used instead of a complaint and summons when both spouses jointly file under Connecticut's simplified nonadversarial divorce track.
Responding to the Case
Dissolution Answer (JD-FM-160)
The respondent spouse's formal answer or response to the divorce complaint.
Appearance (JD-CL-12)
Filed by the responding spouse to formally enter an appearance in the case.
Certification of Waiver of Service of Process – Divorce, Legal Separation, Annulment (JD-FM-249)
Used when the respondent spouse waives formal service of process.
Financial & Disclosure Forms
Financial Affidavit (JD-FM-6)
A mandatory financial disclosure required from each spouse. It comes in two versions: the short form (JD-FM-6-SHORT) is used when both gross annual income and total net assets are each under $75,000, and the long form (JD-FM-6-LONG) is used when either gross annual income or total net assets is $75,000 or more.
Forms for Divorces With Children
If you have minor children, Connecticut requires several additional forms covering custody, support, and a mandatory parenting education program.
Affidavit Concerning Children (JD-FM-164)
Discloses information about minor children, including any prior custody proceedings. Required in cases involving minor children.
Worksheet for the Connecticut Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines (CCSG-1)
The child support calculation worksheet required in all cases involving minor children. Connecticut does not use a separate numbered "child support form" — support is computed on this worksheet, which applies the state's income-shares guidelines.
Advisement of Rights Re: Income Withholding (JD-FM-71)
Advises the parties of income withholding rights for child support. Required when minor children are involved.
Custody Agreement and Parenting Plan (JD-FM-284)
Sets out the legal and physical custody arrangements and the parenting schedule for minor children.
Parenting Education Program – Order, Certificate and Results (JD-FM-149)
The certificate documenting completion of Connecticut's mandatory parenting education program. Each spouse must complete a state-approved program in cases involving minor children.
Settlement or Separation Agreement
Dissolution/Legal Separation Agreement (JD-FM-172)
The full settlement agreement covering division of property and debt, alimony, and — where applicable — custody and child support.
Agreement – Nonadversarial Divorce (JD-FM-243)
The settlement agreement form specific to the nonadversarial divorce track.
Finalizing Your Case
Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce) Judgment (JD-FM-177)
The final judgment, or decree, of dissolution entered by the court that legally ends the marriage.
Where to Get Connecticut Divorce Forms
Connecticut's divorce forms are available from several sources. Because the state uses standardized statewide forms, you don't need county-specific versions.
Official State Courts Website
The Connecticut Judicial Branch publishes the complete, current set of family forms for free. You can download them directly from the official forms page at jud.ct.gov. This is the authoritative source, and using the most recent version of each form helps avoid rejected filings.
Superior Court Clerk's Office
Divorce cases in Connecticut are handled in the Superior Court. The clerk's office can provide printed forms and answer general procedural questions about filing, though clerks cannot give legal advice.
Legal Aid & Court Self-Help Resources
Connecticut's Judicial Branch maintains self-help materials and Court Service Centers, and legal aid organizations may assist those who qualify. These resources can help you understand the forms and the process without representing you.
Online Divorce Services (Divorce.com)
If you'd rather not assemble the paperwork yourself, Divorce.com can help you prepare your Connecticut divorce forms by guiding you through a simple questionnaire and generating completed documents based on your answers. It's a convenient middle ground between going it alone and hiring an attorney.
Hire an Attorney
For contested cases, complex assets, or situations where you want personalized legal guidance, a Connecticut family law attorney can prepare and file forms on your behalf and advise you on your specific circumstances.
The Connecticut Divorce Process
While every case is different, most Connecticut divorces follow a similar sequence. Here's a general overview of how the process tends to flow.
1. Meet the Residency Requirement
At least one spouse must be a Connecticut resident. A complaint can be filed as soon as residency is established, but the court generally cannot enter a final decree until one spouse has lived in Connecticut for at least 12 consecutive months. (More on the exceptions below.)
2. File the Initial Forms
The case typically begins by filing the complaint, summons, and notice of automatic court orders — or, for eligible couples, the joint nonadversarial petition. Filing triggers automatic restraining orders that apply to both spouses.
3. Serve the Other Spouse
In a traditional divorce, the respondent spouse is served with the summons and complaint. The respondent can then file an appearance and, if they choose, an answer. When both spouses cooperate, service may be waived using the waiver form.
4. Exchange Financial Disclosures
Each spouse completes a Financial Affidavit (short or long form, depending on income and assets). In cases with minor children, the child support worksheet and related children's forms are also prepared.
5. Observe the Waiting Period
Connecticut has a waiting period from the return date before a dissolution decree can be entered. This waiting period can be waived by the court when the spouses have reached a full agreement on all terms. Couples on the nonadversarial track can often complete the process in roughly 35 days without appearing before a judge.
6. Finalize the Decree & Get Certified Copies
Once any agreement is reviewed and the waiting period is satisfied or waived, the court enters the dissolution judgment. After the divorce is final, you can request certified copies of the judgment for your records and for changing names, accounts, or beneficiaries.
Connecticut-Specific Requirements You Should Know
Connecticut has a few rules and features that set it apart. Understanding them up front can help you avoid surprises.
Residency. At least one spouse must be a Connecticut resident. A complaint may be filed immediately upon establishing residency, but the court generally cannot enter a final decree until one spouse has been a Connecticut resident for at least 12 consecutive months (CGS § 46b-44). There are exceptions: if the grounds for divorce arose in Connecticut, or if one party was domiciled in Connecticut at the time of marriage and returns intending to remain permanently, the court may proceed without the 12-month requirement.
Property division. Connecticut is an equitable distribution state. This means marital property is divided in a way the court considers fair, which is not always an equal 50/50 split.
Grounds for divorce. Connecticut allows no-fault divorce based on (1) the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, or (2) living apart due to incompatibility for a continuous period of at least 18 months with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation. Fault grounds also exist under CGS § 46b-40, including adultery; fraudulent contract; willful desertion for one year with total neglect of duty; seven years' absence without word from the absent spouse; habitual intemperance; intolerable cruelty; a life sentence or conviction of certain infamous crimes involving a violation of conjugal duty; and legal confinement due to mental illness.
Waiting period. A waiting period from the return date applies before a decree can enter (CGS § 46b-67), and it can be waived by the court when all terms are fully agreed.
Two procedural tracks. Connecticut offers two distinct paths. The traditional divorce uses the Pathways Process — a case-management system (implemented in 2021 and applied statewide to all Superior Court family matters) with Track A for minimal involvement, Track B for moderate, and Track C for highly contested cases, each involving a Resolution Plan Date meeting with a Family Relations Counselor. The nonadversarial (simplified) divorce is available only to couples who meet strict limits: married 9 years or less, no minor children, no real property, combined net assets under $80,000, no pensions, no Medicaid, no restraining orders, and no bankruptcy. Qualifying couples file jointly, do not need to appear before a judge, and can finish in roughly 35 days. Couples who don't qualify use the traditional track. Note that a Notice of Revocation (JD-FM-244/JD-FM-245) lets either party back out of the nonadversarial process before a decree is entered.
Parenting education. Connecticut requires a mandatory parenting education program (CGS § 46b-69b) for all divorcing parents with minor children. Each spouse must complete a state-approved program and file the completion certificate (JD-FM-149). Connecticut is not a covenant marriage state and has no conciliation requirement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming you qualify for the nonadversarial track
The simplified track has strict eligibility limits — marriage length (9 years or less), no children, no real property, an asset cap, and more. If even one limit doesn't apply to you, the traditional track is required.
Using the wrong Financial Affidavit
The Financial Affidavit comes in a short form and a long form. Use the short form only if both your gross annual income and your total net assets are each under $75,000. If either figure reaches or exceeds $75,000, use the long form. Using the wrong version can cause delays.
Overlooking the parenting education requirement
In cases with minor children, each parent must complete the state-approved parenting education program and file the certificate (JD-FM-149). Forgetting this step can hold up your case.
Missing the residency timing rule
While you can file a complaint as soon as you establish residency, the court generally cannot finalize the divorce until the 12-month residency requirement is met — unless an exception applies.
Using outdated forms
Because Connecticut updates its standardized forms, downloading the current versions from the official Judicial Branch site helps prevent rejected filings.
How Divorce.com Can Help
Gathering, completing, and tracking Connecticut's divorce forms takes time and attention to detail. Divorce.com is designed to make that part easier by guiding you step by step and preparing your documents based on your answers — so you can focus on moving forward rather than deciphering form numbers. Here's what you can expect:
A simple online questionnaire that walks you through your information at your own pace
Completed Connecticut divorce documents generated from your answers
Plain-language guidance so you understand what each form does
An affordable alternative to handling everything alone or hiring a full-service attorney
Support designed around Connecticut's statewide forms and process
Which Connecticut Divorce Forms Will You Need?
The exact forms you'll need depend on your circumstances — whether you have minor children, real estate, or a full agreement with your spouse, and whether you qualify for Connecticut's simplified nonadversarial track. Connecticut's forms are standardized statewide through the Judicial Branch, so the same form numbers apply everywhere in the state. Here's what the most common forms are and what each one does. This is informational only; for advice on which forms fit your situation, consult an attorney.
Starting the Case
Summons Family Actions (JD-FM-3)
Initiates the divorce action and is served on the respondent spouse along with the complaint.
Divorce Complaint (Dissolution of Marriage) (JD-FM-159)
The formal petition filed by the plaintiff spouse to begin divorce proceedings.
Notice of Automatic Court Orders (JD-FM-158)
A mandatory notice of the automatic restraining orders that take effect upon filing — for example, orders prohibiting either spouse from disposing of certain assets.
Motion for Orders Before Judgment (Pendente Lite) in Family Cases (JD-FM-176)
Used to request temporary court orders for support, custody, or use of property while the case is still pending.
Joint Petition – Nonadversarial Divorce (Dissolution of Marriage) (JD-FM-242)
Used instead of a complaint and summons when both spouses jointly file under Connecticut's simplified nonadversarial divorce track.
Responding to the Case
Dissolution Answer (JD-FM-160)
The respondent spouse's formal answer or response to the divorce complaint.
Appearance (JD-CL-12)
Filed by the responding spouse to formally enter an appearance in the case.
Certification of Waiver of Service of Process – Divorce, Legal Separation, Annulment (JD-FM-249)
Used when the respondent spouse waives formal service of process.
Financial & Disclosure Forms
Financial Affidavit (JD-FM-6)
A mandatory financial disclosure required from each spouse. It comes in two versions: the short form (JD-FM-6-SHORT) is used when both gross annual income and total net assets are each under $75,000, and the long form (JD-FM-6-LONG) is used when either gross annual income or total net assets is $75,000 or more.
Forms for Divorces With Children
If you have minor children, Connecticut requires several additional forms covering custody, support, and a mandatory parenting education program.
Affidavit Concerning Children (JD-FM-164)
Discloses information about minor children, including any prior custody proceedings. Required in cases involving minor children.
Worksheet for the Connecticut Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines (CCSG-1)
The child support calculation worksheet required in all cases involving minor children. Connecticut does not use a separate numbered "child support form" — support is computed on this worksheet, which applies the state's income-shares guidelines.
Advisement of Rights Re: Income Withholding (JD-FM-71)
Advises the parties of income withholding rights for child support. Required when minor children are involved.
Custody Agreement and Parenting Plan (JD-FM-284)
Sets out the legal and physical custody arrangements and the parenting schedule for minor children.
Parenting Education Program – Order, Certificate and Results (JD-FM-149)
The certificate documenting completion of Connecticut's mandatory parenting education program. Each spouse must complete a state-approved program in cases involving minor children.
Settlement or Separation Agreement
Dissolution/Legal Separation Agreement (JD-FM-172)
The full settlement agreement covering division of property and debt, alimony, and — where applicable — custody and child support.
Agreement – Nonadversarial Divorce (JD-FM-243)
The settlement agreement form specific to the nonadversarial divorce track.
Finalizing Your Case
Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce) Judgment (JD-FM-177)
The final judgment, or decree, of dissolution entered by the court that legally ends the marriage.
Where to Get Connecticut Divorce Forms
Connecticut's divorce forms are available from several sources. Because the state uses standardized statewide forms, you don't need county-specific versions.
Official State Courts Website
The Connecticut Judicial Branch publishes the complete, current set of family forms for free. You can download them directly from the official forms page at jud.ct.gov. This is the authoritative source, and using the most recent version of each form helps avoid rejected filings.
Superior Court Clerk's Office
Divorce cases in Connecticut are handled in the Superior Court. The clerk's office can provide printed forms and answer general procedural questions about filing, though clerks cannot give legal advice.
Legal Aid & Court Self-Help Resources
Connecticut's Judicial Branch maintains self-help materials and Court Service Centers, and legal aid organizations may assist those who qualify. These resources can help you understand the forms and the process without representing you.
Online Divorce Services (Divorce.com)
If you'd rather not assemble the paperwork yourself, Divorce.com can help you prepare your Connecticut divorce forms by guiding you through a simple questionnaire and generating completed documents based on your answers. It's a convenient middle ground between going it alone and hiring an attorney.
Hire an Attorney
For contested cases, complex assets, or situations where you want personalized legal guidance, a Connecticut family law attorney can prepare and file forms on your behalf and advise you on your specific circumstances.
The Connecticut Divorce Process
While every case is different, most Connecticut divorces follow a similar sequence. Here's a general overview of how the process tends to flow.
1. Meet the Residency Requirement
At least one spouse must be a Connecticut resident. A complaint can be filed as soon as residency is established, but the court generally cannot enter a final decree until one spouse has lived in Connecticut for at least 12 consecutive months. (More on the exceptions below.)
2. File the Initial Forms
The case typically begins by filing the complaint, summons, and notice of automatic court orders — or, for eligible couples, the joint nonadversarial petition. Filing triggers automatic restraining orders that apply to both spouses.
3. Serve the Other Spouse
In a traditional divorce, the respondent spouse is served with the summons and complaint. The respondent can then file an appearance and, if they choose, an answer. When both spouses cooperate, service may be waived using the waiver form.
4. Exchange Financial Disclosures
Each spouse completes a Financial Affidavit (short or long form, depending on income and assets). In cases with minor children, the child support worksheet and related children's forms are also prepared.
5. Observe the Waiting Period
Connecticut has a waiting period from the return date before a dissolution decree can be entered. This waiting period can be waived by the court when the spouses have reached a full agreement on all terms. Couples on the nonadversarial track can often complete the process in roughly 35 days without appearing before a judge.
6. Finalize the Decree & Get Certified Copies
Once any agreement is reviewed and the waiting period is satisfied or waived, the court enters the dissolution judgment. After the divorce is final, you can request certified copies of the judgment for your records and for changing names, accounts, or beneficiaries.
Connecticut-Specific Requirements You Should Know
Connecticut has a few rules and features that set it apart. Understanding them up front can help you avoid surprises.
Residency. At least one spouse must be a Connecticut resident. A complaint may be filed immediately upon establishing residency, but the court generally cannot enter a final decree until one spouse has been a Connecticut resident for at least 12 consecutive months (CGS § 46b-44). There are exceptions: if the grounds for divorce arose in Connecticut, or if one party was domiciled in Connecticut at the time of marriage and returns intending to remain permanently, the court may proceed without the 12-month requirement.
Property division. Connecticut is an equitable distribution state. This means marital property is divided in a way the court considers fair, which is not always an equal 50/50 split.
Grounds for divorce. Connecticut allows no-fault divorce based on (1) the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, or (2) living apart due to incompatibility for a continuous period of at least 18 months with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation. Fault grounds also exist under CGS § 46b-40, including adultery; fraudulent contract; willful desertion for one year with total neglect of duty; seven years' absence without word from the absent spouse; habitual intemperance; intolerable cruelty; a life sentence or conviction of certain infamous crimes involving a violation of conjugal duty; and legal confinement due to mental illness.
Waiting period. A waiting period from the return date applies before a decree can enter (CGS § 46b-67), and it can be waived by the court when all terms are fully agreed.
Two procedural tracks. Connecticut offers two distinct paths. The traditional divorce uses the Pathways Process — a case-management system (implemented in 2021 and applied statewide to all Superior Court family matters) with Track A for minimal involvement, Track B for moderate, and Track C for highly contested cases, each involving a Resolution Plan Date meeting with a Family Relations Counselor. The nonadversarial (simplified) divorce is available only to couples who meet strict limits: married 9 years or less, no minor children, no real property, combined net assets under $80,000, no pensions, no Medicaid, no restraining orders, and no bankruptcy. Qualifying couples file jointly, do not need to appear before a judge, and can finish in roughly 35 days. Couples who don't qualify use the traditional track. Note that a Notice of Revocation (JD-FM-244/JD-FM-245) lets either party back out of the nonadversarial process before a decree is entered.
Parenting education. Connecticut requires a mandatory parenting education program (CGS § 46b-69b) for all divorcing parents with minor children. Each spouse must complete a state-approved program and file the completion certificate (JD-FM-149). Connecticut is not a covenant marriage state and has no conciliation requirement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming you qualify for the nonadversarial track
The simplified track has strict eligibility limits — marriage length (9 years or less), no children, no real property, an asset cap, and more. If even one limit doesn't apply to you, the traditional track is required.
Using the wrong Financial Affidavit
The Financial Affidavit comes in a short form and a long form. Use the short form only if both your gross annual income and your total net assets are each under $75,000. If either figure reaches or exceeds $75,000, use the long form. Using the wrong version can cause delays.
Overlooking the parenting education requirement
In cases with minor children, each parent must complete the state-approved parenting education program and file the certificate (JD-FM-149). Forgetting this step can hold up your case.
Missing the residency timing rule
While you can file a complaint as soon as you establish residency, the court generally cannot finalize the divorce until the 12-month residency requirement is met — unless an exception applies.
Using outdated forms
Because Connecticut updates its standardized forms, downloading the current versions from the official Judicial Branch site helps prevent rejected filings.
How Divorce.com Can Help
Gathering, completing, and tracking Connecticut's divorce forms takes time and attention to detail. Divorce.com is designed to make that part easier by guiding you step by step and preparing your documents based on your answers — so you can focus on moving forward rather than deciphering form numbers. Here's what you can expect:
A simple online questionnaire that walks you through your information at your own pace
Completed Connecticut divorce documents generated from your answers
Plain-language guidance so you understand what each form does
An affordable alternative to handling everything alone or hiring a full-service attorney
Support designed around Connecticut's statewide forms and process
Filing for divorce in Connecticut can feel overwhelming, especially when you're staring at a list of court forms with unfamiliar numbers and legal-sounding titles. Take a breath — this guide is here to walk you through it in plain language. Whether you and your spouse agree on everything or you're still working through the details, knowing which forms exist and what each one does is the first step toward feeling more in control of the process.
Connecticut keeps things relatively organized compared to many states: the Judicial Branch publishes a single set of standardized forms that are used statewide, so you won't be hunting for different paperwork depending on which county you live in. The state also offers two distinct paths — a traditional divorce track and a streamlined nonadversarial track for couples who meet specific eligibility limits.
Below, we'll cover the main Connecticut divorce forms, where to find them, how the process generally flows, and the state-specific rules that set Connecticut apart. We'll also point out a few common mistakes that trip people up. This is general information about how the forms and process work — it is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult an attorney.
The Bottom Line
Connecticut makes divorce paperwork more manageable than many states by using a single set of standardized statewide forms, so the same documents apply whether you live in Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, or Waterbury. The right combination of forms depends on your situation — especially whether you have minor children, real property, or qualify for the simplified nonadversarial track.
You can download every current Connecticut family form for free from the official Judicial Branch site at jud.ct.gov. If you'd prefer guided help preparing your documents, Divorce.com can walk you through the process step by step.
This page is general information about how Connecticut's divorce forms and process work, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult an attorney.
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