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New London Divorce Attorneys

Protecting Your Rights Through the End of a Marriage

When you and your spouse have decided to end your relationship, getting a divorce is the next logical step. The decision to end a marriage is not an easy one, especially if you have children together. However, working with a divorce attorney can expedite the process and make it easier for both parties.

Whether you’ve been married for decades or just a few months, seeking assistance from a divorce attorney is crucial. Not only will it help your divorce go smoother, but our team can protect your rights and ensure you get the assets, custody, and support that you deserve. If you’re interested in learning more about our services and how we can help you, contact Mariani Reck Lane, LLC today by calling (959) 400-9920.

What Are the Legal Grounds for Divorce in Connecticut?

When you file for divorce in Connecticut, you must note a reason for the divorce. The plaintiff spouse, or the person filing, must choose a reason for seeking the divorce.

In Connecticut, you can cite the following reasons for divorce:

  • Irretrievable breakdown
  • Intolerable cruelty
  • Willful desertion and neglect of a spouse for at least 12 months
  • Imprisonment of a spouse

Most couples who don’t have a specific reason for ending the marriage choose to note “irretrievable breakdown.” This is the simplest option and often leads to an amicable, no-fault divorce. However, if you do have a specific reason for seeking a divorce, it’s important to note it on your divorce papers. A judge may grant you more assets or speed up the divorce process if you are in danger or fearful of your spouse.

What Terms Must be Agreed Upon During a Divorce?

In order for a divorce to be filed, both spouses must agree upon and sign the divorce terms. The divorce terms will vary slightly depending on the length of your marriage and whether or not children are involved. However, there are some common divorce terms that you and your spouse will likely discuss.

The most common divorce terms include:

Distribution of Assets

All marital property, or assets that were obtained during the marriage, must be distributed between both spouses. Connecticut uses an “equitable distribution” plan, meaning that assets are distributed equitably, not necessarily equally.

Child Custody

If you and your spouse have children together, creating a child custody agreement is essential. In most cases, both parents get joint custody, meaning they can both make decisions about the child’s education, medical treatments, and living situation. However, you can also fight for sole custody.

Child Support

Child support payments are made by the non-primary parent to cover expenses such as clothing, food, education, and extracurricular activities. The payments are calculated based on each parent’s income plus the custody arrangement.

Spousal Support

Spousal support payments are often made when one spouse is a much higher earner than the other spouse. You can negotiate spousal support payments with help from our team.

How is Marital Property Divided During a Divorce?

Any property acquired during the marriage is considered marital property unless it was a gift or an inheritance that only went to one spouse. Marital property often includes the family home, vehicles, investment accounts, bank accounts, retirement accounts, and more.

In Connecticut, all marital property is subject to an equitable distribution. The court will decide how assets are split based on several factors.

Those factors include:

  • Each party’s income levels
  • The length of the marriage
  • Each party’s future earning potential
  • Which party has primary custody of the children, if applicable
  • The grounds for divorce noted in the paperwork

Having an attorney fight for your right to marital property is essential. Contact us today if you have questions or concerns about your marital property.

What is the Divorce Process in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, either spouse can file for divorce. The process for filing a divorce is similar in most states. However, it involves extensive legal paperwork and could include going to trial.

Generally, the divorce process is as follows:

  • Filing a divorce complaint to begin the process
  • Delivering a summons to the other spouse to notify them of the divorce
  • Discussing the terms of divorce with your spouse
  • Submitting information about your income, parent involvement, background, and more
  • Negotiating the terms of the divorce
  • Going to trial if an agreement cannot be reached

Do I Need a Divorce Attorney?

Making the decision to end a marriage is not an easy one. Working with a divorce attorney speeds up the process and ensures that your rights are protected and advocated for. Whether you’re concerned about getting custody, receiving marital assets, or simply ending your marriage quickly, our team is here to help.

Mariani Reck Lane, LLC understands how difficult this process can be, and we are dedicated to making it easier for all our clients. For more information about how we can assist you through your divorce, please call us today at (959) 400-9920.