Connecticut Uncontested Divorce Lawyer

Proficient Uncontented Divorce Attorneys Serving The State of Connecticut

CT uncontested divorce lawyerFor couples seeking a quick divorce in Connecticut, an uncontested divorce may be an attractive option. An uncontested divorce allows spouses to finalize their divorce with minimal delay and lower costs compared to a contested or litigated divorce, which typically requires more billable hours and attorney’s fees. Call our Connecticut Uncontested Divorce Lawyer if you have questions and need answers. The sooner you get help, the less delay and cost will be.

FAQs about uncontested divorce in Connecticut:

Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce in Connecticut?

If you have a mortgage together, a child, and joint liabilities, it’s best to go to divorce mediation. We strongly advise against a “do it yourself” approach if you have joint mortgages and children. However, if you have a short-term marriage, no children, and no joint mortgage, you can handle the entire divorce yourself beginning to end.

Why is uncontested divorce so common?

Spouses often know what they want and are better off working together. There are essential steps to take in the divorce process, and it is often less conflictual when both individuals create their own agreements. How to get an Uncontested Divorce in CT

Do I have to go to court for an uncontested divorce in Connecticut?

You have to file with the Court to open and finalize the case, but it is possible to never set foot inside a courtroom in an uncontested divorce in CT. Yes, you have to file with the Court to open and finalize your uncontested divorce, but it is possible to never set foot inside a courtroom in an uncontested divorce in Connecticut.

How long does it take to get an uncontested divorce in Connecticut?

If you meet the criteria for quick divorces in Connecticut, it will take approximately one month, provided the other spouse cooperates and you work together. Other conditions and circumstances may prolong this time period.

Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce in Connecticut?

If you have a mortgage together, a child, and joint liabilities, it’s advised to go to divorce mediation. We strongly advise against a “do it yourself” approach if you have joint mortgages and children. If you have a short-term marriage, no children, and no joint mortgage, you can do the entire divorce yourself.

How much does an uncontested divorce in Connecticut cost?

If you hire a mediator attorney in CT for an uncontested divorce or separation, you can typically expect to pay between $2,500 – $6,000 (total for both spouses). Mediation fees are based on the level of conflict and financial complexity. If you hire an attorney, expect to pay between $2,500 – $7,000 for each spouse. Court Fees are in addition to the mediator fees or attorney fees.

Can you explain how to file for divorce in Connecticut with no money?

The Connecticut Courts have resources for getting divorced with a low income. Simply go to the Connecticut Court in your jurisdiction and ask for help.

What qualifies as an uncontested divorce in Connecticut?

Cases that often qualify as uncontested divorce are those where all property issues have been resolved, children are grown, or there’s no conflict regarding them, and the parties agree on everything except the process to get an amicable divorce completed from beginning to end.

Why is uncontested divorce in CT so common?

Spouses often know what they want and are better off working together. There are essential steps to take in the divorce process, and it is often less conflictual when both individuals create their own agreements and work together. Uncontested divorce is common because spouses often have a clear understanding of their wants and needs. Additionally, they realize that
working together, despite internal conflicts and disagreements, leads to beneficial outcomes through creating mutual agreements. There are essential steps in the divorce process, including paperwork filing and legal considerations as per Connecticut family statutes. Couples who work together understand that utilizing mediation or expert divorce mediators can
keep them out of courts and save money. Although divorce proceedings can be complex, couples should thoroughly assess their assets and ensure all necessary documentation is in place before finalizing the divorce decree. An experienced and reputable divorce mediation attorney can simplify the process.

What qualifies as an uncontested divorce in CT Connecticut?

The uncontested divorce cases we see most often are typically those where the party comes in and says, “Hey, we’ve sold the house and divided the proceeds. I’m keeping my retirement, and she’s keeping hers. I’m keeping my bank account, and she’s keeping hers. Just draft an agreement and help us with the Financial Affidavits and all the legal documents to get divorced.” And that’s it. Sometimes the family knows what they want. ” I want to keep the house, she keeps the other house, we need to clean mortgages and divide the bank accounts. These are cases where all property issues have been resolved, children are grown or there is no conflict about them , and you basically agree on everything. You just do not know how to get an amicable divorce completed from beginning to end.

How to get an uncontested divorce in Connecticut?

If you and your spouse have agreed on “almost” everything or are amicable and can work together to reach agreements, an uncontested divorce in Connecticut may be the right choice for you. It’s important to note that while most couples have some disagreements during the divorce process, many meet the requirements for an uncontested divorce. If you qualify and are willing to collaborate, the procedure for an uncontested, amicable divorce in Connecticut is quite straightforward.

How to file an uncontested divorce in Connecticut

To file for an uncontested divorce in Connecticut, one of the spouses must have resided in Connecticut for at least 12 months when the uncontested divorce is finished in the CT Court. You can start the filing of divorce legal documents in Court. You must go to the Court, ideally together and file for divorce. The next step is to prepare the Financial Affidavits and, if you have children, the Child Support Guidelines that come next. Next step is to prepare or write the Separation Agreement or Agreement of the Parties and include with all the necessary details. The final step is to go to Court again and sign all the documents in front of the Clerks and submit all the legal documents for Court Approval. In an Uncontested Divorce Mediation, all the steps are completed together, in joint sessions with the mediator, and are processed by the office without going to Court.

Is a Connecticut no-fault divorce the same as an uncontested divorce in Connecticut?

Connecticut is a no-fault state. Clients often ask us how to get a divorce in Connecticut when no one is at fault—a Connecticut no-fault divorce—and whether a no-fault divorce is the same as an uncontested divorce in Connecticut. Again, CT is a no-fault state. Meaning the who’s fault is for the marriage falling apart does not really matter. Uncontested vs. Contested is a separate issue. Uncontested means we are amicable and we can work together. Contested means I want everything, or most things, and you deserve very little to not much.

However, that doesn’t mean the couple’s divorce would automatically be an uncontested divorce. Even if they agree that neither party is at fault, the couple may still disagree about property division, child custody and other matters. If the couple only disagrees on one matter, they still wouldn’t be able to file uncontested divorce Connecticut paperwork.

On the other hand, if the couple agrees that neither party is at fault for the divorce, and they also agree on all other matters pertaining to the divorce, they may be able to get a Connecticut uncontested divorce.

Wondering how to get a fast divorce in Connecticut, whether you qualify for uncontested divorce or not?

One of the best ways to get a low-cost divorce in Connecticut is to minimize unnecessary work—and billable hours—for your mediator. For example, if you can organize your financial documents so they’re easy to process that will save time and save you money.

Again, we highly recommend you enlist the help of a mediation attorney to assist you both when making these requests. If money truly is an issue for you, you will find a number of helpful resources by looking up Greater Hartford Legal Aid or other Legal Aid offices in your area or visiting CT Judicial Websites and searching for getting divorced with a low income.

Considering an uncontested divorce? It’s best to hire a divorce mediator who is also an attorney from the start to avoid costly mistakes. Here’s why: Many people believe they don’t need an attorney for an uncontested divorce in Connecticut, but they often discover they do. Some families opt for a non-attorney mediator to save on costs, only to find that the overall expense ends up being much higher. That’s because certain legal documents, such as Financial Affidavits, Child Support Guidelines, Separation Agreements, Retirement Division, and Title and Conveyance Tax Forms, must be prepared by an attorney licensed to practice law in CT. Non-attorney mediators may eventually refer the couple to separate lawyers, resulting in additional expenses. A reputable divorce mediation attorney who exclusively practices divorce mediation can save the couple money in the long run and expedite the divorce process. They can also help prevent complications, especially when there are property and children involved. It’s highly recommended to hire a divorce mediation attorney from the beginning.

When to hire a CT Divorce Mediator to help with an uncontested divorce in Connecticut

If you and your spouse are hoping for a mutual divorce in Connecticut, agree on everything, own no real property, and don’t have minor children, you may not need an attorney-mediator. You can request the appropriate Connecticut uncontested divorce forms from your county clerk’s office or download them from the state’s website. It is always easier to go to the Family Court in your area together. Bring a checkbook for your filing fee.

However, if you and your spouse agree on most things and need an impartial attorney to sort out a few details and prepare the Final Decree of Divorce, hiring a divorce mediator can simplify and even expedite the process.

We do not recommend doing things yourself if you have a joint mortgage, children, and are dividing retirement funds. One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to handle a divorce on their own is finalizing their divorce decree and failing to prepare the ancillary closing documents related to the divorce. It’s very challenging to go back years later and do a QDRO, locate the other party, track down the retirement plans, and other important documents. It’s not just the divorce decree itself that family law mediation attorneys handle. Other documents—especially those that effectuate the transfer of property—often get left out when people try to get divorced without an attorney who is also a mediator.

When a divorce is uncontested in Connecticut and involves a child, it means that the couple has resolved all matters relating to the division of assets and child custody. They simply need to address a few remaining issues and ensure that all paperwork is completed accurately and submitted. An attorney mediator specializing in family law can help answer any questions and properly prepare the CT Child Support Guidelines. However, it’s important to note that a mediation attorney in an uncontested divorce in Connecticut cannot provide independent legal advice to either party separately. If either party requires legal or financial advice, the mediator can present all available options. Furthermore, the mediator is unable to offer separate legal guidance to one spouse without the presence of the other. In situations like these, most parents are able to establish parenting arrangements and long-term financial plans for caring for their children without involving the Courts.

It’s important to understand the difference between a mediation attorney and a divorce mediator in Connecticut. Mediation attorneys are licensed to practice law in the state, while many mediators in Connecticut have not attended law school or earned a law degree. Hiring a mediator who is not well-versed in family law, particularly in matters related to divorce, child custody, child support, division of property, and alimony, may result in an unfavorable or incomplete divorce decree. In such cases, the judge may require you to seek the assistance of an attorney-mediator to ensure that the work is completed correctly.

Can you save money with an uncontested divorce in Connecticut?

Absolutely. If you and your partner are amicable and can come to agreements for the benefit of your children, you may save money on legal proceedings. If you both want to have control over your negotiations and are willing to compromise to ensure that both parties are satisfied, uncontested divorce in Connecticut is not only possible but also happens regularly. Private, low-cost, and detailed uncontested divorces are facilitated in our conference rooms every day.”

How can CT Mediation Center help with my uncontested divorce?

If you’re not sure whether your divorce would be suitable for an uncontested divorce in Connecticut and you want to speak with us, we are here to help. We have office locations throughout the state of CT and most importantly you can have virtual consultations. The best way to start is by scheduling an initial consultation or case evaluation with our family law paralegal or mediation attorney.   You can call us at (860) 986 -1141 or email us at info@ctmediationcenter.com.

Uncontested Divorce FAQ’s

In Connecticut, for a case to be considered an uncontested divorce, both spouses must want to handle the matters outside the court and agree on most issues in their case. Two spouses must want to work together with their mediator to reach a common goal. At least one spouse must have lived in Connecticut for 12 months before the action is filed. The court requires full financial disclosure for both spouses. Both spouses are also required to each fill out their financial affidavits outlining all financial matters. At the end of the process, you and your spouse must submit a final, signed separation agreement that resolves every issue pertaining to property, assets, and liabilities, alimony, insurance, child custody, and child support. The separation agreement is ultimately ruled on by the judge.

There is no typical flat fee price for an uncontested divorce. For divorce mediation, pricing may depend on the level of conflict and the complexity of assets. A typical range for divorce mediation is between $3,500 and $7,500+. Those prices are the total average for both spouses.  

In Connecticut, court costs not included in the original pricing include the $360 filing fee for filing your initial documents with the court. If you have minor children, Connecticut requires both parents to take a Parenting Education Course, which is $150 per parent. In divorce mediation, there is no service of process. During the mediation process, you and your spouse will file a Notice of Mediation, stating that you are handling your case in mediation and that the Defendant waives service. Therefore, there are no Marshal fees associated with the divorce mediation process.

An uncontested divorce can be finalized in Connecticut within 35-45 days if you have a complete and signed agreement and all supporting documentation is filed with the Court. The State of Connecticut does not have the mandatory 90-day waiting period.

Some common aspects to note that might slow the process include the mandatory parenting education program and the completion of financial affidavits.

Yes, you still qualify for an uncontested divorce. Couples with minor children have some additional steps to their process, but you may still qualify for an amicable divorce if both spouses agree on all parenting issues. The parenting education course is offered throughout Connecticut. It is a 6-hour course that can be completed in person or virtually and is required for all parents with minor children during the divorce process. The course does come with a $150 fee per spouse. Additionally, the separation agreement will include provisions for child custody, the parenting plan, and possible child support.

If you obtain a partial settlement, you do not need to abandon the entire agreement. An important factor to consider is whether anything has been signed and notarized. If the agreement was verbal, it is not legally binding. Spouses have the right and may change their minds throughout the divorce mediation process. If it were a memorandum of understanding drafted by the mediator, outlining the parties' agreement, it would not yet be a formal contract. If the partial agreement was in writing and signed, you may leave the contested issue for the judge to decide. The Judge may hold a hearing on a single contested issue.

One attorney cannot represent both parties in an uncontested divorce. It is an unethical practice of law, as you cannot represent both parties’ interests. The parties can have one attorney mediator, who does not represent either party but serves as a facilitator of the process. The parties may, however, hire their own outside review counsel to ensure that their interests and needs are met during the mediation process. You and your spouse cannot hire the same review counsel to review the agreement. You may take the documentation discussed during the mediation process to your review counsel.

In Connecticut, mandatory financial disclosure includes providing twenty-four months of financial documents to your spouse, or the other side. In divorce mediation, you and your spouse agree on a time frame in which you would like to request an exchange. You will cross-reference each other on these statements, so everyone is on the same page.

You and your spouse must fill out a financial affidavit, outlining all financials from assets to liabilities and everything in between. This document is required by the State of Connecticut to obtain a divorce and is submitted along with your separation agreement and other legal documentation.

The parties must attend the final court hearing or resolution plan date if judgment has not been entered. In many uncontested cases, neither party has to appear in court. However, the attorney mediator cannot go to court to stand in for you to answer the judge's questions or on behalf of the mediation clients. The attorney mediator did not represent either spouse. The parties may bring the mediator to an uncontested hearing, but do not enter an appearance on the client's behalf.

Yes, there is always the risk that a judge may reject the agreement or have questions about the agreement. However, it is uncommon, and most agreements submitted to the court are granted, allowing the parties to get divorced without ever having to step foot in court. A Judge must ensure the agreement is fair and equitable, given the circumstances. 

 

Further, if the Judge has questions about the agreement once all final paperwork is submitted, there is a court date called a Resolution Plan Date. Both you and your spouse will attend the RPD, where the Judge might canvas both parties, ask some questions to ensure that you both understand the agreement, or to clarify any questions the Judge has.

 

The Judge may have questions regarding the child support guidelines, the best interests of the child standard, or the standard of unconscionability in financial matters.

Yes, you can proceed with an uncontested divorce if one spouse lives outside Connecticut or in another country. Connecticut requires only one spouse to meet the 12-month residency requirement before filing the action. 

In addition to the legal implications, as long as the spouse who lives outside the state has access to technology and a notary, all sessions can be conducted virtually. The last signing session will be in person with the spouse who lives in the state, and the out-of-state spouse can be present virtually during this session. The original paperwork is shipped to the out-of-state spouse for review and signature in front of a notary.