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If you and your spouse have determined you can no longer coexist in your marriage, you may have several difficult decisions and complicated procedures ahead. Even after dealing filing requirements, you will have to determine the distribution of marital property, the custody of any children produced by your marriage, and whether either party will be obligated to offer financial support to the other.
Getting help from our family attorneys who are experienced with these issues can help your divorce proceed more smoothly. Our knowledgeable Westport divorce attorneys can answer every question you have about your situation and help you pursue a fair and mutually agreeable resolution.
Individuals who currently reside in Westport are eligible to file for divorce here if they have lived in the State of Connecticut for one year or more prior to their initial filing date or one year or more after the date of the divorce decree.
Previously, an individual seeking a divorce in Westport would have to name specific grounds for the dissolution of their marriage, such as adultery, cruelty, or the imprisonment of their spouse. Now, our diligent attorneys can help someone pursue what is known as a “no-fault” divorce based on the “irreconcilable breakdown” of the marriage in question.
This initial complaint should demonstrate what the filing party wants in terms of asset division, child custody and support, alimony, and other similar matters. Our divorce lawyers in Westport can help the filing party craft a petition and their claims for relief.
Equitability is the metric by which courts make decisions on matters in Westport divorce proceedings. The courts will only approve agreements or make orders that are fair and equitable to both parties.
Importantly, “equitable” is not synonymous with “equal,” and does not necessarily result in the 50/50 split of marital assets. For example, an equitable distribution of inherited monies may award a disproportionate share to the party who inherited the monies, as opposed to an equal 50/50 division of other non-inherited assets.
However, courts follow a different principle when making decisions about child custody. Their orders will prioritize the child’s best interests regardless of whether their decision is fair to the personal desires of both parents. One of our skilled attorneys in Westport can provide further guidance about how local courts approach these matters during the divorce process.
Even if it is ultimately the right choice, divorce can be hard on everyone involved, especially if the matter is contested. In order to ensure your divorce goes as smoothly as possible, you should strongly consider seeking help from our legal professionals who have experience helping families in similar situations.
One of our seasoned Westport divorce lawyers can serve as your steadfast ally and advocate for your best interests throughout every stage of the dissolution process. To learn more about your legal options, call today.