If you are considering the uncontested divorce process in New Haven, it may elicit mixed emotions. You and your ex-partner may agree on major issues, which spares you the hostility of most divorces. However, you are still dealing with a legal process that affects your future. An experienced uncontested divorce attorney at Dolan Divorce Lawyers can walk you through each step. From preparing and filing paperwork to making sure the agreement protects your rights, our team can help you navigate the process.
In Connecticut, an uncontested divorce is meant to proceed more smoothly because both spouses agree on matters such as property division, custody, support, and alimony. The process is less confrontational, but the court still reviews everything carefully before approving the agreement.
Starting the process of an amicable divorce requires one New Haven spouse to file a divorce complaint in the Superior Court. At least one spouse should have lived in the state for twelve months before the decree is entered. However, if that spouse was a resident at the time of marriage but later moved away, they can still file for divorce in Connecticut if they move back with the intent to stay. They do not have to wait the full 12 months after their return.
The complaint must identify the cause of the marital breakdown and request relief such as dissolution of the marriage, equitable division of property, child custody, and support. Once the case is filed, a Resolution Plan Date is scheduled within two months, which is where spouses have the opportunity to update the court on the status of their resolution of all the issues, assuming they do not already have all the final paperwork and agreement ready to file.
For many New Haven families, mediation is an effective way to resolve disagreements when proceeding with an uncontested divorce. Cooperative spouses can waive the need for formal service, which also saves time and expense. Mediation and negotiations can help parents design a plan that addresses their family’s specific needs without unnecessary conflict.
If children are involved, state law requires both parents to complete a parenting education program. They must also submit a parenting plan that outlines how legal and physical custody will be shared. It is important to understand that legal custody refers to decision-making authority, not the child’s residence. These requirements ensure the court has a clear picture of how parenting responsibilities will be handled before finalizing the divorce.
Property division follows the principle of equitable distribution. Judges have the authority to divide all marital property, including assets one spouse owned before marriage, unless a valid prenuptial agreement states otherwise. In the course of an uncontested divorce, New Haven couples typically present a written agreement that the court reviews for fairness before making it official.
Financial issues, such as support, also require careful attention. Both parties must complete a Connecticut Child Support Guidelines Worksheet, which calculates weekly support obligations. If a child has an intellectual or developmental disability and depends on a parent, support may continue until age twenty-six. Alimony agreements are also common. A set alimony amount may change if circumstances change significantly. For example, if one spouse loses employment or suffers a serious illness, it may cause a change in the amount and term of alimony.
If you are preparing for the uncontested divorce process in New Haven, it helps to know what to expect before you begin. By planning ahead, you can move through the process more efficiently while protecting your financial security and your relationship with your children. At Dolan Divorce Lawyers, we are ready to help you every step of the way. Contact our office today to learn how our team can support you as you finalize your uncontested divorce.
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