It is often said that it is far easier to get married than it is to get divorced. There are many different types of issues that can arise throughout this complex and lengthy process. It is important to identify at the start of the divorce case what issues are addressed upon filing, what issues can be addressed by temporary orders, and what happens to any of these orders upon finalizing your divorce action.

Automatic Orders in Connecticut Divorce Cases

Certain matters in your case will be addressed by the Court at the very beginning of your case. The Court will issue Automatic Orders (JD-FM-158) at the start of every case. These orders will be effective when the plaintiff signs the divorce complaint and for the defendant when he or she has been served with the complaint. The purpose of these orders is to provide baseline rules that will govern the behaviors of the parties throughout the divorce action. These rules will be in effect until one of three things happens: the parties agree in writing to modify the orders, the court modifies the orders, or the divorce is finalized.

It is important to familiarize yourself with all of the automatic orders, as they will limit you and your spouse’s freedom to relocate, incur new debts and acquire new assets, among other things.

Temporary Orders in Connecticut Divorce Cases

Sometimes, the Automatic Orders do not contemplate all the issues that parties face for their unique situation. Other times, a party will seek a modification or revocation of the automatic orders. Regardless of the reasoning, temporary orders are often helpful for people looking to address important issues in their case without the need to wait for final judgment. Temporary orders can cover a wide range of issues, including child custody, visitation, child support, and the use of marital property.

What To Do If You Think You Need Temporary Orders

To acquire temporary orders in Connecticut divorce cases, a party must file a motion to specify the issues needing immediate attention and the proposed resolution. For example, a parent may request the Court to enter temporary custody orders of the children until a final parenting plan is determined at the end of the case. This request may also include a demand for child support or spousal support for the ordinary household expenses.

If you are going through a divorce and need to understand or obtain temporary orders in Connecticut, you may benefit from the assistance of legal counsel. It will be important for you to use specific language in your request to the Court, know what you can and cannot ask for, and know what evidence you will need to present to support your motion. The divorce attorneys at Diana, Conti & Tunila are equipped and ready to help you with these issues. Contact us today to schedule a free initial case evaluation with one of our family law attorneys to learn more about how we may be able to help you with your legal matter.