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Divorce in Connecticut: Frequently Asked Questions

Every marriage is unique, and every divorce is unique. Still, there are some general questions that people have about the process.

How long does divorce take in Connecticut?

There is typically a statutory 90-day waiting period from the date the divorce petition is filed, but that waiting period can be waived if both parties are in agreement on all divorce matters. In some cases, if the divorce is contested, it can take up to a year to finalize. Whatever your situation is, talk to an attorney before agreeing to the terms of a divorce.

If I vacate the home during my divorce, is that abandonment?

First and foremost, if your safety is threatened, do what is best for your health and safety. Then contact my law office as soon as possible. I can help you address any claims of abandonment if they arise.

In an ideal situation where your safety is not threatened, you should consult with your lawyer before leaving the home — just to make sure your decision to leave aligns with your goals for property division and child custody.

Are health insurance and day care included in child support?

Usually, no. Instead, there are three separate payments: child support, medical care and day care. I can help you address these concerns and make sure all child-related costs are considered.

Does child support terminate when a child turns 18?

Connecticut uses a program and formula for calculating child support and its duration. In special circumstances, child support may continue after a child turns 18. For example, continued support may be required if the child has special needs. Also, if there are multiple children, child support may be adjusted as children age out of the program.

Am I entitled to alimony?

A formal request must be submitted to the court for a divorcing spouse to receive alimony. Before approving or denying an alimony request, the court will consider multiple factors, including:

  • The duration of the marriage
  • The income, occupation, vocational skills and employability of both spouses
  • Each spouse’s age and health
  • Each spouse’s need for support
  • Whether child support will be ordered for either spouse
  • Whether the children would benefit if the parent with residential custody were to receive alimony while pursuing employment

Judges have broad discretion in matters of alimony. When making an alimony decision, a judge may give weight to various causes of the breakdown of the marriage. However, the judge is not required to do so or to give more weight to one matter over another.

What are the types of alimony in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, a judge may award three types of alimony: temporary, rehabilitative or permanent.

  • Temporary alimony is meant to help the lesser-earning spouse make ends meet while the divorce is being finalized.
  • Rehabilitative alimony is meant to provide support to the lesser-earning spouse while he or she attends school or otherwise obtains job skills in order to be self-supporting.
  • Permanent alimony is meant to support a spouse who has a disability or other condition that prevents the spouse from becoming self-supporting. Permanent alimony is rare these days.

Contact Lisa C. Dumond of ZNC Law | Zeldes Needle and Cooper, P.C.

To discuss your goals and concerns with an experienced family law attorney, please call me, Attorney Lisa C. Dumond of ZNC Law | Zeldes Needle and Cooper, P.C., at 800-772-1167, or complete my contact form. I advise and represent clients in Prospect and throughout New Haven County and the surrounding areas.