How Do You File for Divorce in Connecticut If You Have Kids and a House?

A question we often hear is: “I want to file for divorce in Connecticut, but I’m not sure how. We have children and own a home, but don’t have many other assets. What are the steps, costs, and how are custody and property handled?”

Divorce Basics in Connecticut

• Residency requirement

  • At least one spouse must meet residency criteria before the final decree is granted.

• Grounds

  • Connecticut allows no-fault divorce (irretrievable breakdown) and fault-based divorce.

• Where to file

  • Divorce petitions are filed in the Superior Court in the county where you or your spouse lives—whether Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, or smaller communities.

• Process overview

  • Petition → service → financial disclosure → temporary orders → mediation/settlement → trial if needed.

Do You Need a Lawyer to Get a Divorce in Connecticut?

• Not required, but highly recommended with children and a home.

• How a lawyer/mediator helps

  • Drafting a parenting plan that addresses custody and decision-making.

  • Handling home equity evaluations and buy-out agreements.

  • Navigating child support calculations.

  • Protecting against unfair debt allocation.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Divorce in Connecticut?

• Court filing fees plus serving fees.

• Attorney or mediator fees depending on conflict.

• Valuations and appraisals for real estate or other assets.

• Additional costs like guardian ad litem appointments if custody is in dispute.

What About the House & Property Division for Divorce in Connecticut?

• Connecticut uses equitable distribution: property is divided fairly, not always 50/50.

• Courts consider both marital and, in some cases, separate property.

• Factors courts consider:

  • Length of the marriage.

  • Contributions of each spouse to finances and child care.

  • Each spouse’s income and debts.

  • Custodial arrangements for the children.

• The house may be sold, awarded to one spouse with an offset, or otherwise divided.

Custody, Parenting Time & Child Support for Divorce in Connecticut

• Custody is decided based on the best interests of the child.

• Legal custody (decision-making) and physical custody (living arrangements) may be shared or sole.

• Parenting time schedules are flexible, focusing on children’s stability.

• Child support is based on Connecticut’s guidelines, factoring in income and children’s needs.

Things You Must Know About Getting Divorced in Connecticut!

• Title on the deed does not always control division.

• Debt division is equally important as asset division.

• Custody and child support can be modified later if circumstances change.

• Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are considered but must be fair.

• Courts often prioritize stability for children when deciding home use.

A Gentle Reminder About Divorce in Connecticut

This post is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Connecticut law has nuances that affect your case, whether in Hartford, New Haven, or Bridgeport.

At Fresh Starts, you can search our Expert Guide by state to find Connecticut-based attorneys, mediators, financial advisors, and child custody professionals who can guide you with care.