A divorce is contested when the spouses cannot yet agree on one or more issues required for judgment. A contested case may still settle. The court process creates a structure for temporary relief, information exchange, negotiation and, when necessary, trial.
Common Areas of Dispute
- Custody, parenting schedules or child safety
- Child support or payment of child-related expenses
- Alimony
- Ownership, value or division of property
- Responsibility for debts and taxes
- Use of the home, payment of bills or other temporary arrangements
Temporary Orders
Because a case can take time, either party may request temporary orders governing parenting, support, possession of property or other urgent issues. Temporary orders do not necessarily predict the final judgment, but they must be followed while effective.
Discovery and Expert Evidence
Discovery can include document requests, written questions, subpoenas, depositions and other lawful methods. Complex property, earning-capacity or parenting issues may require appraisers, financial professionals, clinicians or other qualified experts. The need for an expert depends on the disputed issue and the likely value of the evidence.
Negotiation, Pretrial and Trial
Many cases settle after the parties understand the evidence and legal risks. Mediation or judicial pretrial conferences may help narrow disputes. If no complete agreement is reached, the court hears evidence and enters orders. Trial preparation should focus on admissible evidence and the statutory factors, not simply the parties’ frustration with each other.
Control Cost and Conflict
Clear priorities, organized records and realistic proposals can reduce unnecessary expense. Communications should be written with the expectation that a judge may later read them. Children should not be used as messengers or placed in the middle of the dispute.
Related guides: child custody, property division, alimony and mediation.
Talk With a Connecticut Divorce Lawyer
Call (203) 373-9080 or use the form on this page. Submitting a form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Representation begins only after a conflicts check and a written engagement agreement.
Reviewed September 2026. Connecticut law and court procedures can change. This page provides general information and is not legal advice.
