If you’re thinking about getting divorced in Connecticut—or you’ve just been served with divorce papers—there are rules that apply to you immediately, even before you ever step into a courtroom. These rules are called automatic orders, and violating them can seriously damage your divorce case.
I’m Matt Dolan with Dolan Divorce Lawyers in Connecticut, and in this article, I’ll explain what Connecticut automatic divorce orders are and what you need to know, including when they go into effect, what they require, and the most common mistakes I see people make that end up costing them time, money, and credibility with the court.
In every Connecticut divorce case, the court automatically issues a set of standing orders known as automatic orders. You do not need to request them, and a judge does not need to separately approve them. They apply by default in every divorce case statewide.
The purpose of automatic orders is straightforward: they are designed to preserve the status quo and prevent either spouse from taking drastic or unfair actions while the divorce is pending.
This is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—parts of Connecticut divorce law and how automatic orders factor into your case.
Many people get into trouble by saying, “I didn’t know,” or “I hadn’t talked to a lawyer yet.” Unfortunately, those explanations do not excuse a violation. Once the orders apply, you are legally required to follow them.
You need to understand that automatic orders in Connecticut divorces cover several critical areas. Here are the most important ones.
You may not sell, transfer, give away, conceal, or waste marital assets without either a written agreement from your spouse or a court order—except for ordinary, day-to-day living expenses or reasonable attorney’s fees.
That means:
Even actions that seem harmless or temporary can raise red flags with the court.
Both parties must maintain all existing insurance coverage exactly as it existed at the start of the case. This includes:
Canceling or changing insurance coverage during a divorce is one of the fastest ways to get yourself in serious trouble with a judge.
If you have children, automatic orders prohibit either parent from permanently removing the children from Connecticut without the written consent of the other parent or a court order. This rule applies even if you believe the move would be better for the child.
If parents are living apart during the divorce, both must assist their children in maintaining contact with the other parent. That contact should be consistent with the family’s recent routines and habits.
Judges take this issue extremely seriously. Cutting off communication or access to the children can have lasting consequences in custody decisions.
Here are three mistakes I see over and over again when it comes to Connecticut divorces and violations of automatic orders.
Judges do not view unilateral financial moves as self-protection. They see them as violations.
Ownership does not override automatic orders. Even accounts in your name alone are subject to these rules.
Timing matters. Getting this wrong can be expensive.
Violating automatic orders, even due to innocent mistakes such as these, can result in:
In cases involving children, violations can even impact custody and parenting time orders. Judges remember who followed the rules—and who did not.
What you need to know is that automatic orders in Connecticut divorce cases are not suggestions—they are binding court orders that apply immediately. If you are considering divorce, or you’ve just been served with divorce papers, understanding these rules before you act can save you from serious legal trouble.
If you have questions about how automatic orders apply to your specific situation, or if you are looking for experienced representation in a Connecticut divorce or family law matter, I invite you to contact Dolan Divorce Lawyers for help.
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