
Dear Attorneys,
I’m planning to file for divorce. However, things are amicable between my wife and I now, so we have been working together to reach an agreement we can both live with. Does that mean that if we reach an agreement, we can get divorced without attorneys?
Sincerely,
Ned the Negotiator
Dear Ned,
That’s great that you and your wife are able to work through things on your own! In Connecticut, you are not required to retain an attorney to get a divorce. Many people do it on their own, and they are referred to as either self-represented parties or pro se litigants. However, you may want to at least consult with an attorney to ensure that your financial affidavit is correct and that the agreement you reached addresses everything that it needs to. You can actually go to the clerk’s office with your spouse and file all of the dissolution documents at the same time (or you can do the same online), so that you file a complaint, your spouse waives service, and you file your final agreement and accompanying documents altogether so that you do not have to go back to court. However, please note that while it is possible to modify a dissolution agreement subsequent to it being entered, it requires a substantial change in circumstances in most instances. So if you have any questions or concerns now, it would be best to address those before filing.
Wolf & Shore Law Group is here to help you make your family law matters easier, not harder. We are realistic and direct with our clients. We encourage potential clients to seek out a firm where they will feel comfortable and confident. Ever argue with a woman? Let Wolf & Shore Law Group go to work for you. Call us at 203.745.3151 or email us at info@wolfandshorelaw.com.
Very Truly Yours,
Wolf & Shore Law Group
*The situations represented in our Dear Attorneys column are entirely fictional and any resemblance to a specific case is unintentional. We cannot, and will not, offer legal advice to anyone who is not a client. However, if you do have questions or concerns, you should contact an attorney at your convenience.