Legal Question in Family Law in Connecticut

Divorce in Connecticut on your own

I am considering divorcing my husband on grounds of mistrust. He has gambled away all of our assets and also is an alcoholic. We recently went through bankruptcy and are presntly looking at losing our home. My name is on all property. Will I need a lawyer or can I file for myself? I am not looking for any financial gains only to save what little financial profile I have left.


Asked on 12/11/97, 5:34 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Robert Friend Robert H. Friend, Attorney at Law

Filing a divorce on your own

I don't know about Connecticut, but in my state, NC, if you have the guts and the patience and the willingness to research exactly what to do and how to do it, you MIGHT be able to pull it off. But in my state you can hire a lawyer and pay court costs too in some areas for less than $200. So you might want to check that out in your state. There are do-it-yourself divorce kits at some bookstores, but the idea scares me because there are so many factors to consider, like "who gets to pay off which debts," alimony, child support, and on and on. At least try to find a lawyer who will quote you a fee (including court costs).

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Answered on 12/12/97, 4:16 pm
Susan K. Smith Attorney at Law

Pro Se Divorces in Connecticut

Yes, it is possible to do your own pro se (literally, "for self") divorce in CT. Most of the family clerk's offices have pro se divorce kits and as of 10-1-97, there are now many forms (including the complaint) that can be done "fill in the blanks."

Your situation does not seem crystal clear, however, and it would be my suggestion that you consult a lawyer, preferably one that is familiar with both family and bankruptcy law to see if it is wise to proceed on your own. If you already have a bankruptcy lawyer, you can direct the inquiry to that person.

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Answered on 12/13/97, 7:47 am


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