Connecticut DIY Divorce Options Guide

Connecticut allows spouses to handle their own divorce without an attorney, and the state offers one of New England’s most streamlined self-help systems for doing so. The nonadversarial (simplified) divorce track lets qualifying couples finalize in as few as 35 days without ever stepping into a courtroom. Even standard uncontested cases can wrap up through a remote approval process that eliminates in-person hearings. With a $360 filing fee, e-filing through the Judicial Branch E-Services portal, and free court-connected mediation, a DIY Connecticut divorce is practical when both spouses agree on the terms. This guide covers your filing paths, required forms, costs, and self-help resources.

Choosing Your DIY Filing Path

Connecticut recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds, but nearly all DIY filers use irretrievable breakdown (CGS § 46b-40)—the state’s no-fault ground. One spouse must have been a Connecticut resident for at least 12 months before a decree can enter, though you can file sooner. You file in the Superior Court for the judicial district where either spouse resides.

Connecticut offers two main DIY paths. The standard uncontested dissolution works for any couple who reaches agreement on all issues—property, support, and custody. The nonadversarial (simplified) divorce is an even faster, paperwork-only track for couples who meet all eligibility criteria: marriage of 9 years or fewer, no minor children, no real property, combined net assets under $80,000, no pension plan, and no pending bankruptcy or protective orders (CGS § 46b-44a). For a broader comparison, see our Connecticut uncontested vs. contested divorce guide.

Forms and Pro Se Resources

The Connecticut Judicial Branch Self-Help Center provides every form you need at no cost. For a standard dissolution, you will need:

• JD-FM-3 — Summons, Family Actions (clerk signs before service)
• JD-FM-159 — Divorce Complaint (Dissolution of Marriage)
• JD-FM-158 — Notice of Automatic Court Orders (must be served with complaint)
• JD-CL-12 — Appearance form (blank copy served on defendant)
• JD-FM-6 — Financial Affidavit (due within 30 days of the return date)

For the nonadversarial path, file JD-FM-242 (Joint Petition), JD-FM-243 (Agreement), JD-FM-260 (Automatic Orders – Nonadversarial), plus each spouse’s appearance and financial affidavit. A step-by-step breakdown of every form is in our Connecticut divorce filing checklist.

Filing Fees and Fee Waivers

Connecticut charges a flat $360 court entry fee to file a dissolution, effective since September 2023 (Judicial Branch fee schedule). Additional costs include:

• State marshal service: $50 per process plus mileage (or $0 if the respondent signs JD-FM-249 to waive service)
• Parenting Education Program: Up to $200 per parent (required when minor children are involved)
• Post-judgment modification: $130 per motion

If you cannot afford the fee, file JD-FM-75 (Application for Waiver of Fees). The court can waive filing fees, marshal costs, and parenting class fees for qualifying applicants.

E-Filing and Mediation Options

Self-represented filers can enroll in the Judicial Branch E-Services portal to file documents electronically rather than traveling to the courthouse. For uncontested cases where all issues are resolved, Connecticut also offers remote approval without a court appearance—submit JD-FM-281 and JD-FM-282 with your signed agreement, and the court can enter the decree without scheduling a hearing.

Free court-connected Family Services mediation is available in every judicial district to help spouses narrow disagreements on custody, support, or property. Private mediation and collaborative divorce are additional options; file JD-FM-278 to notify the court. For full timeline details, see our Connecticut divorce timeline.

Estimate Your Connecticut Divorce Costs

Use the calculator below to get a personalized estimate of your total divorce costs, including filing fees, service expenses, and potential mediation costs.

When Professional Help May Be Worth It

A DIY approach works best for uncontested or nonadversarial cases where both spouses agree on all terms. Consider consulting a family law attorney if your case involves complex property such as business interests, stock options, or pensions requiring QDROs; disputes over child custody or parenting time; spousal support (alimony) claims under CGS § 46b-82; or high-value real estate. Connecticut’s Court Service Centers and Law Libraries offer free procedural guidance but cannot provide legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut allows self-represented (“pro se”) filers in all family cases. The Judicial Branch provides free forms, a Do It Yourself Divorce Guide (JDP-FM-179), and Court Service Centers for procedural questions.

How much does a DIY divorce cost in Connecticut?
The court filing fee is $360. Add $50 for marshal service (waivable) and up to $200 per parent for parenting classes if children are involved. Total DIY costs typically range from $360 to $810.

What is a nonadversarial divorce in Connecticut?
It is a simplified, paperwork-only dissolution for qualifying couples—marriage of 9 years or fewer, no children, no real property, and combined net assets under $80,000. The decree can enter as soon as 30 days after filing without a hearing.