There are various options available under Connecticut law for obtaining a divorce. While most people pursue a no-fault divorce, others choose an at-fault divorce, which requires one side to prove the other was to blame for the relationship ending.
Proving fault often turns a divorce into a more contentious and emotionally charged process. However, with guidance from our compassionate divorce attorneys, you can approach this challenge with confidence. Reach out to a New Haven fault-based divorce lawyer today to begin the process.
No-fault divorce is by far the most common option in the state, and for good reason. When spouses do not have to argue over who caused the breakdown of the marriage, it can be easier to reach an agreement on other major issues in the case. A no-fault divorce often moves more quickly because the parties rarely dispute the reason for ending the marriage.
However, some people have valid reasons for choosing the at-fault type of divorce. For those with strong religious convictions, this approach may be the only acceptable way to end a troubled marriage and remain in good standing with their church.
For others, pursuing an at-fault divorce is about formally proving misconduct that violates a prenuptial agreement. Showing that a spouse engaged in wrongful behavior can either enforce or nullify the agreement, depending on the specific terms.
Finally, the court will consider fault when determining issues such as spousal support or property division. If a party or their attorney can prove that the other party was to blame, the court may factor that misconduct into its decisions on how to divide assets or award support in a New Haven divorce.
A New Haven attorney can help clients understand that in Connecticut, an at-fault divorce is based on the specific conduct by one ex-partner that led to the breakdown of the marriage. The following are the legal grounds a person can rely on when filing for divorce.
Adultery is a common ground for at-fault divorce. The court views marital infidelity as a serious breach of trust and requires clear evidence to establish it as a cause for ending the marriage.
Cruelty includes both physical and emotional harm. If an ex-partner’s behavior creates an unsafe or intolerable living situation, the court may grant a divorce on this basis.
Habitual intemperance refers to ongoing alcohol or drug abuse that disrupts the marriage. The pattern of substance use must be significant enough to undermine the marital relationship.
If an ex-partner intentionally abandons the marriage for at least one year without reasonable cause, the court can treat this as a ground for divorce.
A person can challenge their partner for entering a marriage through fraud or deceit. If one partner misrepresented material facts, the court may dissolve the marriage on this basis.
Convictions of certain crimes that lead to imprisonment may also serve as grounds for divorce. The length and nature of the sentence often determine whether this applies.
If you are going through a divorce, it is vital that you carefully select the process that best fits your needs. At-fault divorce can seem intimidating at first, but the right legal team can put you in a position to get the best possible outcome. Reach out to a New Haven fault-based divorce lawyer today. At Dolan Divorce Lawyers PLLC, we are ready to help.
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