Q: How long do I need to live in Connecticut before filing for divorce? A: Generally 12 months. One spouse must have lived in Connecticut for at least 12 continuous months immediately before filing. Exceptions: if you got married in Connecticut and one spouse has returned to live here permanently, or if grounds for divorce arose after moving to Connecticut. This is one of the longest residency requirements in the US. | Q: Does Connecticut have a waiting period for divorce? A: Yes. Connecticut has a mandatory 90-day waiting period from the date you file the complaint. The divorce cannot be finalized until 90 days have passed, even if both spouses agree on everything. | Q: Do I have to take a parenting class in Connecticut? A: Yes, if you have minor children. Both parents must complete the "Focus on Children" program (2 hours, $60 per person) before the final divorce hearing. This is mandatory statewide for all divorces involving children. The program is available online and in-person. | Q: Do I have to go to court for an uncontested divorce? A: Yes. Connecticut requires a brief uncontested hearing before a judge even if both spouses agree on everything. The hearing is typically short (10-15 minutes) and the judge will review your separation agreement and ask some questions before signing the judgment. | Q: Is Connecticut a 50/50 divorce state? A: No. Connecticut is an equitable distribution state, meaning property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. Courts consider many factors including length of marriage, age, health, earning capacity, and contributions. It is not automatic 50/50. | Q: Can I speed up my Connecticut divorce? A: You cannot waive the 90-day waiting period. However, you can avoid additional delays by: meeting the 12-month residency requirement before filing, serving your spouse immediately, completing parenting education right away if you have children, preparing your separation agreement during the 90-day wait, filing your motion for judgment on day 91. | Q: What are automatic orders in Connecticut divorce? A: Automatic orders are restrictions that take effect when a divorce is filed. They prohibit either spouse from selling property, incurring unreasonable debt, changing beneficiaries, or making major financial changes. These orders remain in effect until the divorce is final unless the court grants a waiver. | Q: How long does a contested divorce take in Connecticut? A: Contested divorces in Connecticut take 10-24 months if settled before trial, or 18-36+ months if going to trial. The 90-day waiting period applies, plus extensive discovery, mandatory mediation, and potentially trial. Fairfield County cases often take longest due to complexity and court backlog.