Best Family Lawyers in Connecticut

About Family Law in Connecticut, United States

Family law in Connecticut covers the legal responsibilities and relationships between individuals within the family system. This area of law oversees many significant life events, such as marriage, divorce, child custody, child support, alimony, property division, domestic violence, adoption, paternity, and more. Family law cases are typically heard in the Family Division of the Connecticut Superior Court. The goal of family law is to address the needs and best interests of adults and children dealing with family-related legal conflicts or changes.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Family law issues can be both legally complex and emotionally challenging. You may need a lawyer for various reasons, such as:

• Navigating a divorce or legal separation and understanding your rights regarding property, custody, and support
• Negotiating child custody and visitation arrangements
• Seeking or modifying child support or alimony orders
• Responding to allegations of domestic violence or obtaining a restraining order
• Representing your interests in an adoption or guardianship case
• Establishing paternity for legal rights and child support
• Enforcing or contesting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
• Addressing relocation requests or cross-border custody disputes

An experienced family law attorney can help you navigate the Connecticut court system, protect your rights, and achieve the best outcome for you and your family.

Local Laws Overview

Connecticut family law is governed by state statutes and local court rules. Some key points to be aware of include:

• Connecticut is an equitable distribution state for property division during divorce, meaning property is divided fairly, not necessarily equally
• Either spouse can seek alimony, but it is not guaranteed and depends on factors like length of the marriage, income, education, and contributions to the marriage
• Child custody and parenting plans must support the best interests of the child, and both parents are encouraged to play an active role
• Child support amounts are determined by State guidelines based on the parents incomes and needs of the child
• Connecticut recognizes no fault divorce, so spouses do not have to prove wrongdoing to end a marriage
• The state has procedures for protecting victims of domestic violence, including civil restraining orders
• Adoptions go through a court process to legally transfer parental rights and responsibilities
• The court can address paternity issues either at birth or later in the child's life

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the grounds for divorce in Connecticut?

Connecticut allows no fault divorce, meaning you do not need to prove that one spouse caused the breakdown of the marriage. The most common ground is irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

How does the court determine child custody?

Connecticut courts base child custody decisions on the best interests of the child. This includes analyzing factors like the child's relationship with both parents, each parent's ability to provide for the child, and, when appropriate, the preferences of the child.

How is child support calculated?

Child support in Connecticut is determined using state guidelines that consider the incomes of both parents and the needs of the child, such as health care and education.

Can spousal support or alimony be modified?

Yes, spousal support orders can be modified if there has been a substantial change in either party's circumstances, such as job loss or a significant increase or decrease in income.

What steps are involved in an adoption?

Adoption in Connecticut requires background checks, a home study, and approval by the court. Biological parents rights must be legally terminated before the adoption can be finalized.

How do I get a restraining order for domestic violence?

You can request a civil restraining order at your local Superior Court. The court will review the situation and may issue a temporary order before a full hearing is held.

What happens if a parent wants to relocate with a child?

If a custodial parent wishes to move, especially out of state, Connecticut law requires them to demonstrate that the relocation is in the child's best interest and is for a legitimate purpose. The non relocating parent can object, and the court will decide.

Is mediation required in family law cases?

Connecticut often encourages or requires mediation, especially in contested custody and visitation matters, with the goal of resolving disputes outside of court.

How long does it take to finalize a divorce?

The time to finalize a divorce depends on the complexity of the issues and whether there is agreement between the parties. The process can take several months to over a year if contested.

Do grandparents have visitation rights in Connecticut?

Grandparents can petition the court for visitation, but they must show that there is a parent like relationship with the child and that visitation is in the child's best interest.

Additional Resources

• Connecticut Judicial Branch - Family Division
• Connecticut Department of Children and Families
• Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut
• Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence
• Connecticut Bar Association - Lawyer Referral Service
• Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate
• Connecticut Parentage Act information resources

Next Steps

If you are facing a family law issue in Connecticut, consider the following steps:

• Gather all relevant documents, such as marriage licenses, financial records, and any court papers
• Clearly outline your goals and desired outcomes regarding family, property, or children
• Schedule a consultation with a qualified Connecticut family law attorney to discuss your situation in detail
• Contact local legal aid organizations if you need low cost or free legal assistance
• Utilize resources offered by the Connecticut Judicial Branch and other organizations for self help guides and forms
• Stay informed about your rights and responsibilities throughout the legal process

Having professional legal guidance can make a significant difference in understanding Connecticut family law and ensuring your interests and the best interests of your family are protected.