Are you going through a divorce or thinking about filing? Whether the split is amicable or not, divorce is rarely simple, especially when emotions are high and families are involved.
The process can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You’re suddenly faced with major decisions about property, finances, and even custody. But you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself—a Glastonbury divorce lawyer can guide you through what comes next and make sure your rights are protected.
At Rich Rochlin Family Law, we have over 35 years of combined experience. Together, our attorneys will handle your case with a passionate, personal, and proven approach. We know the law, and we know how personal this is. Let us help you as your Glastonbury family lawyer.
Legal Grounds for Divorce in Connecticut
Connecticut law provides both “no-fault” and “fault-based” grounds for divorce. The most commonly used ground is the “irretrievable breakdown” of the marriage, meaning that the relationship has broken down to the point where reconciliation is not possible.
Another no-fault ground is living apart for at least 18 months due to incompatibility without a reasonable chance of reconciliation.
For those pursuing a fault-based divorce, these are the grounds:
- Adultery
- Fraud
- Willful desertion for at least a year
- Absence for at least seven years without communication
- Alcohol or drug addiction
- Intolerable cruelty
- Imprisonment for life or a certain type of “infamous” crime
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What to Expect During the Divorce Process in Connecticut
The divorce process in Connecticut typically begins with the filing of a complaint for dissolution of marriage. This document outlines the grounds for divorce and any requests for relief, such as child custody, child support, alimony, and property division.
Once filed, the other spouse is served with the complaint and has an opportunity to respond. After the initial pleadings, the court may schedule a hearing or trial. In many cases, mediation is encouraged to help the parties reach an agreement without the need for a trial.
Mediation allows both spouses to discuss their issues with a neutral third party, aiming for a mutually acceptable resolution. If an agreement is reached, the terms are submitted to the court for approval. If no agreement is possible, the case proceeds to trial.
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Property Division in Connecticut
Connecticut follows the principle of equitable distribution when dividing property in a divorce. This means that assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally.
The court considers various factors, including the length of the marriage, the causes for the divorce, the age and health of both spouses, their occupations, income, and employability, as well as the contribution of each spouse to the acquisition and preservation of the marital estate.
It’s important to note that Connecticut does not distinguish between marital and separate property in the same way some other states do. All property, regardless of how it is titled or when it was acquired, can be subject to division during a divorce.
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How Alimony Works in Connecticut
Alimony, or spousal support, may be awarded in Connecticut divorce cases. The court often considers the following factors:
- Length of the marriage
- The causes for the divorce
- The age, health, station, and occupation of each person
- The amount of money each person makes
- The specifics of your sources of income
- Any vocational skills you have
- Your employability
- The estate and the needs of each of the parties
Alimony can be temporary, rehabilitative, or permanent, depending on the circumstances. Temporary alimony is often awarded during the divorce proceedings to maintain the status quo.
Rehabilitative alimony is intended to support a spouse while they gain the skills or education needed to become self-sufficient. Permanent alimony is less common and is typically awarded in long-term marriages where one spouse may not be able to support themselves adequately.
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Determining Child Custody and Support in Your Case
When children are involved, the court’s primary concern is the best interests of the child. Connecticut recognizes both legal and physical custody. Legal custody refers to the right to make major decisions about the child‘s life:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Religious upbringing
Physical custody pertains to where the child lives and the time spent with each parent. In many cases, courts favor joint custody arrangements, believing that children benefit from maintaining strong relationships with both parents.
However, the specific circumstances of each case, including the child’s age, health, and the parents’ ability to cooperate, influence custody decisions. It is determined based on guidelines that consider the combined net income of both parents and the needs of the child.
The court may also consider factors such as the child’s standard of living before the divorce and the financial resources of both parents.
The Process of Finalizing Your Divorce
Once all issues are resolved, either through negotiation or trial, the court will issue a final judgment of dissolution of marriage. This document legally ends the marriage and outlines the terms of the divorce, including:
- Property division
- Alimony
- Child custody
- Support arrangements
It’s important to comply with all terms outlined in the final judgment. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences. If circumstances change after the divorce, such as a significant change in income or living arrangements, either party may request a modification of the court’s orders.
Call Our Divorce Law Firm in Glastonbury for Legal Representation in Your Family Law Proceedings
If you’re facing a divorce, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our Glastonbury divorce attorneys know how heavy this process can feel, from dividing your life’s assets to navigating custody and support concerns—it’s a lot to carry on your own.
Reach out to Rich Rochlin Family Law. Our team knows what’s at stake, and we’re ready to stand by your side, advocate for your interests, and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Don’t wait to take that next step. The sooner you connect with us, the sooner we can start working together to protect what matters most.
Let us help navigate your family legal matters schedule your consultation now.
