Connecticut Dissolution of Marriage Timeline — How Long Does It Take? (2026)

Connecticut's dissolution timeline is shaped by the 90-day waiting period (waivable), the state marshal service process, and the mandatory Case Management Date.

Overview: Total Timeline

Stage-by-Stage: Agreed Dissolution (With Waiver)

Stage 1 — Pre-Filing Preparation

Duration: 2–4 weeks

Gather financial documents. Complete JD-FM forms and Financial Affidavit. Draft Agreement for Dissolution. Locate a state marshal.

Stage 2 — File at Superior Court

Duration: 1 day

File Complaint. Pay $350. Clerk issues Return Date (90 days from filing) and assigns Case Management Date.

Stage 3 — State Marshal Service

Duration: 3–14 days

The state marshal serves the Respondent and files the Return of Service with the court.

Stage 4 — Respondent Files Appearance

Duration: Within time set in Summons (typically 2 days to 2 weeks after service)

Respondent files JD-CL-12 Appearance form.

Stage 5 — File Motion to Waive 90-Day Period

Duration: Shortly after Respondent's Appearance is filed

Both parties sign the Motion to Waive. File with court along with the Agreement for Dissolution and Financial Affidavits.

Stage 6 — Court Reviews and Enters Judgment

Duration: 2–6 weeks after filing the waiver motion

Judge reviews the Agreement for Dissolution, Financial Affidavits, and supporting documents. If all is in order, the Judgment of Dissolution is entered.

Total with waiver: 3–5 months

Stage-by-Stage: Agreed Dissolution (No Waiver)

Stages 1–4 — Same as above

Stage 5 — 90-Day Waiting Period

Duration: 90 days from Return Date

Cannot be shortened without a waiver. Use this time to finalize the Agreement for Dissolution, complete Financial Affidavits, and (if children) complete the Parenting Education Program.

Stage 6 — Case Management Date

Duration: Typically set at or after the 90-day mark

Appear or submit documents. For agreed cases, present the Agreement for Dissolution. Court may enter Judgment at or shortly after the CMD.

Total without waiver: 5–7 months

The 90-Day Period — What You Need to Know

Connecticut's 90-day period runs from the Return Date (a specific date set by the clerk, typically 4–5 weeks after filing). To count: take the Return Date + 90 days = earliest final Judgment date (unless waiver granted).

The waiver: Both parties must agree. File a Motion to Waive the 90-Day Period signed by both parties. Attach the executed Agreement for Dissolution. The court can then enter the Judgment faster.

Parenting Education Program — Additional Time

When minor children are involved, both parents must complete the Parenting Education Program before the dissolution is finalized. Plan for 6–8 weeks to complete the program (varies by provider). Certificates are filed with the court.

Last reviewed: March 2026 | 90-day wait from Return Date (waivable) | State marshal service | Case Management Date | Parenting Education Program if children | Agreement for Dissolution accelerates completion

Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.