If you are considering divorce, one of the first questions you probably have is: How long does divorce take in Connecticut?
The honest answer is that it depends. The timeline is not the same for every case. Some divorces are finalized relatively quickly, while others can take many months or longer.
Understanding what affects the Connecticut divorce timeline can help you set realistic expectations and make informed decisions.
Is There a Mandatory Waiting Period in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut has a statutory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
In most cases, there is a 90-day waiting period from the return date before a divorce judgment can enter. However, this waiting period can sometimes be waived by the court if certain conditions are met and both parties agree.
This means that even in the most cooperative cases, there are procedural requirements that must be satisfied before a divorce becomes final.
Uncontested Divorce in Connecticut
An uncontested divorce in CT typically moves the fastest.
This happens when both spouses agree on all major issues, including:
- Division of assets and debts
- Alimony
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Child support
If the paperwork is prepared properly and both parties are in agreement, the case can move through the system efficiently. In some circumstances, particularly when all documents are submitted together and the waiting period is waived, a divorce can be finalized much sooner than people expect.
The key factor is cooperation.
Divorce Through Mediation or Negotiation
Many cases fall somewhere in the middle.
Both parties want to get divorced, but they need time to resolve certain issues. Mediation, attorney negotiation, or collaborative divorce can help couples reach agreements without full litigation.
In these situations, a Connecticut divorce timeline often ranges from several months to six months, depending on how quickly financial disclosures are completed and agreements are reached.
This path is generally less costly and less stressful than a contested divorce, while still allowing both parties to protect their interests.
Contested Divorce in Connecticut
A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more significant issues.
These cases involve:
- Court appearances
- Discovery requests
- Motions
- Potential trial preparation
A contested divorce in Connecticut typically takes longer. Many cases resolve before trial, but if the matter proceeds to trial, the timeline can extend to nine months or more, sometimes longer depending on court availability and case complexity.
Litigation also tends to increase legal fees and emotional strain.
What Actually Determines How Long Divorce Takes?
While court procedures matter, the biggest factor in most cases is the level of agreement between spouses.
Divorces tend to take longer when:
- One spouse is blindsided
- Financial information is delayed
- There is high conflict
- Child custody disputes are unresolved
Divorces tend to move faster when:
- Both parties are motivated to resolve matters
- Financial documents are exchanged promptly
- Communication is constructive
- Negotiation is approached in good faith
In many situations, the timeline is less about the court and more about how quickly agreements can be reached.
How to Avoid Unnecessary Delays
If your goal is to resolve your divorce as efficiently as possible, consider:
- Gathering financial documents early
- Being open to mediation
- Focusing on long-term solutions instead of short-term conflict
- Consulting with an experienced Connecticut family law attorney early in the process
Early guidance often prevents costly mistakes and delays later.
Final Thoughts
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how long divorce takes in Connecticut. The timeline depends heavily on the circumstances of your case and the level of agreement between spouses.
If you are considering divorce and want a clearer understanding of what your timeline may look like, I would be happy to break everything down for you.
