The end of a marriage can produce a wide range of emotions as you and your spouse work through what comes next. As you file divorce papers, divide up assets, and potentially make custody decisions, a divorce lawyer in Litchfield can guide you through the process and protect your rights. They lead with experience and compassion, so you receive the support and results you need.
Rich Rochlin Family Law helps clients navigate a variety of challenging legal issues. With nearly 25 years of experience, Rich Rochlin possesses a deep knowledge of the law and uses his experience to build relationships and apply tailored solutions to settle disputes and resolve cases. A Litchfield family lawyer from our firm will handle your divorce with care and discretion as we prioritize your needs.
Grounds for Divorce in Litchfield, Connecticut
Many people may wonder if there is ever a right time for divorce, and the answer to that often depends on the couple’s circumstances. Couples get divorced for a variety of reasons, and some may enter into divorce amicably or contentiously. Resentment, arguments, lack of intimacy, mental health challenges, and unhappy children may factor into a couple’s decision to dissolve their union.
Regardless of your situation, you will need to provide the reason for your divorce when filling out divorce papers. Connecticut allows for both fault and no-fault divorces. For no-fault divorces, couples can cite an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. With this method, couples do not have to demonstrate a particular reason for filing. Legal separation is another common no-fault reason for divorce.
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Legal Separation is an Alternative to Divorce
For those filing for an at-fault dissolution of marriage in Connecticut, grounds may include adultery, desertion or absence, cruelty, fraud, excessive use of drugs or alcohol, incapacity, or a lifetime prison sentence. To file for divorce on one of these grounds, you will need to provide evidence of the reason during divorce proceedings.
Divorce may not be for everyone, and if you don’t want to get divorced or are uncertain, legal separation may be a good alternative. This allows couples to live apart while still retaining the benefits of being married. It’s important to understand the benefits of legal separation in Connecticut when making your decision.
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What to Expect When Filing for Divorce in Litchfield
In 2021, Connecticut modified its divorce process requirements to ensure there were available resources and the process was more efficient. The state’s pathways process in your divorce, custody, or visitation case provides different options depending on a couple’s circumstances, preparedness, and level of agreement.
When filing for divorce, couples are given a resolution plan date by which they should be able to reach an agreement on various aspects. During your resolution plan date meeting, areas of agreement and disagreement will be determined, as well as the likelihood of resolving differences. The family relations counselor assigned to your case will make recommendations for how to proceed.
Depending on the determination made during the resolution plan date, couples will move forward on one of three tracks. These tracks are based on the level of time and resources needed. Couples who have minimal disagreements will be put on Track A, while Track B is for those who have a moderate level of disagreement, and Track C is for contentious divorces.
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A Litchfield Divorce Attorney Can Provide Guidance on Division of Assets
Division of assets is a central part of the divorce process, as every couple must complete this requirement. This is often where disagreements arise between couples, as each individual may have different expectations about what they should receive. Conflicts may be further exacerbated when couples have complex estates to divide.
Connecticut is an equitable distribution property state, which means that all property is subject to division, according to Connecticut General Statutes § 46b-81. While most states distinguish between marital and separate property, Connecticut doesn’t make this distinction and can allocate part or all of an estate to either spouse. The state generally focuses on a fair split of all assets.
When dividing property between couples, the courts take several factors into account to determine what is fair. They will often look at each party’s individual situation. For example, if one parent has primary custody of the couple’s children, then the court may decide to allocate the house to them while issuing additional assets to the noncustodial parent. A lawyer can provide clarity on which factors apply to you.
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Divorcing Couples May Also Need to Navigate Child Custody and Alimony
Divorcing couples in Litchfield must also reach an agreement in other areas beyond asset division before a divorce can be finalized. Couples must make decisions about child custody/support if children are involved, and/or reach an alimony agreement. These big decisions often contribute to disputes, and a Litchfield divorce lawyer can provide solutions and valuable insight.
Child custody and child support require parents to make a whole host of decisions about living arrangements, education, decision-making, financial responsibilities, and more. These terms are outlined in a parenting plan that the court must approve. Child support payments will also be calculated based on the financial situation of each parent.
Alimony allows one spouse to provide financial support to the other spouse. It is up to the court to grant an alimony request, and it will take several factors into consideration when reviewing a petition. If granted, each spouse’s financial situation will be evaluated to determine the value and duration of payments.
Navigate Your Divorce With the Help of Rich Rochlin Family Law
Rich Rochlin Family Law understands that filing for divorce may feel monumental, and we are here to provide you with support and guidance.
We help you through all the big decisions and work to reduce your stress and potential conflicts. Your rights and overall well-being are important to us, and we advocate for you from start to finish. Contact a divorce attorney in Litchfield to schedule a consultation.
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