How do I get a restraining order during divorce in Connecticut?

Going through a divorce is incredibly stressful, and when you feel unsafe, that stress can become overwhelming. If you're concerned about your safety or the safety of your children, please know that you have options. Getting a restraining order during a divorce in Connecticut is a legal process designed to protect you, your children, and even your financial stability. It’s a powerful tool, and understanding how it works is the first step toward securing peace of mind.

In Connecticut, there isn't just one type of "restraining order." The court system provides different kinds of protective orders depending on your specific situation. The most common are the "Automatic Orders" that apply to every divorce case, and more specific orders you can request if you or your children are at risk of harm. We'll walk you through what these orders are, what they do, and the steps you need to take to get the protection you need.

Understanding Your Options for Protection in a CT Divorce

When people talk about getting a restraining order during a divorce in Connecticut, they are usually referring to one of two main types of court orders. It's important to understand the difference so you can seek the right kind of protection for your circumstances.

Automatic Orders (Practice Book § 25-5): Think of these as a set of automatic, built-in financial and custodial restraining orders. The moment a divorce is filed and served, these orders go into effect for both you and your spouse. They are designed to prevent either person from making drastic changes that could harm the other party or their children financially or emotionally. They restrain actions like draining bank accounts, canceling insurance, or moving children out of state.
Emergency Ex Parte Order of Custody (C.G.S. § 46b-56f): This is a more specific and urgent type of protective order. You would apply for this if you believe there is an "immediate and present risk of physical danger or psychological harm to the child." This order can be granted quickly—sometimes on the same day you apply—without the other parent being present, which is why it's called "ex parte." It is specifically focused on ensuring a child's safety.

While there is also a civil restraining order for relief from abuse (under C.G.S. § 46b-15), this article will focus on the two types detailed above, as they are directly addressed in the provided Connecticut legal framework and are critical components of seeking protection within the divorce process itself.

Connecticut Law Requirements for Protective Orders

The rules for getting a protective order are set by Connecticut law. Understanding these requirements helps you know what to expect and what you need to prove to the court.

Automatic Orders: The Built-in Protections

The automatic orders are not something you have to apply for separately; they are a standard part of every divorce, legal separation, and custody case in Connecticut. According to the Connecticut Practice Book § 25-5, these orders become effective for the filing spouse upon signing the complaint and for the responding spouse upon being served with the divorce papers.

These orders automatically restrain both you and your spouse from doing the following things without the other's written consent or a court order:

Regarding Children (if applicable):
- Permanently removing your minor child from Connecticut.
- Interfering with the children's current medical, dental, or hospital insurance coverage.
- Failing to help the children maintain contact with both parents.
Regarding Finances and Property:
- Selling, transferring, hiding, or borrowing against property, except for usual household expenses or reasonable attorney's fees.
- Incurring unreasonable new debts on joint accounts.
- Removing the other spouse from existing medical, dental, or life insurance policies.
- Changing the beneficiaries on any life insurance policies.
- Locking the other spouse out of the family home if you are still living together.

These orders come with a stern warning printed directly on the divorce complaint: "Failure to obey these orders may be punishable by contempt of court." This makes them a powerful tool for maintaining stability while your divorce is pending.

Emergency Ex Parte Order of Custody: For a Child's Immediate Safety

If your situation involves a direct threat to your child, an emergency ex parte order may be necessary. The legal standard for this is very specific. According to Connecticut General Statutes § 46b-56f(a), you can apply for this order when you believe "an immediate and present risk of physical danger or psychological harm to the child exists."

To get this order, you must provide the court with a sworn statement, called an affidavit, that includes:

A description of the conditions that require an emergency order.
An explanation of why the order is in the best interests of the child.
A statement about what actions you took to inform your spouse about the application, or why you couldn't.

The court can grant this order on a temporary basis without your spouse present if it finds the risk to the child is real and immediate.

Step-by-Step Process for Getting Protection

Navigating the court system can feel intimidating, but the process is broken down into clear steps. Here’s how to approach getting a restraining order during your divorce in Connecticut.

Step 1: File for Divorce to Activate Automatic Orders

The simplest form of a restraining order in a divorce is automatic. The process is straightforward:

File the Divorce Complaint: You or your attorney will prepare and file a Summons and Complaint for Dissolution of Marriage with the Superior Court.
Automatic Orders are Included: Per Practice Book § 25-5, the full text of the automatic orders must be included in the complaint.
Serve Your Spouse: The automatic orders become binding on your spouse as soon as they are officially served with the divorce papers by a state marshal.

Once served, both of you are legally required to follow these financial and custodial restraints.

Step 2: Apply for an Emergency Ex Parte Order of Custody (If Needed)

If you believe your child is in immediate danger, you must act quickly and file a specific application.

Fill Out the Application and Affidavit: You will need to complete an Application for Emergency Ex Parte Order of Custody (Form JD-FM-295) and a detailed affidavit. Your affidavit is your sworn testimony. Be specific about the threats, incidents, dates, and why you fear for your child's safety. This is your chance to tell the judge exactly what is happening.
File the Paperwork with the Court: Take the completed application and affidavit to the clerk's office at the Superior Court where your divorce case is filed (or will be filed). There is no fee to file for this type of protective order.
The Judge's Initial Review (Ex Parte): A judge will review your application and affidavit, usually the same day. The judge will decide if the situation meets the legal standard of "immediate and present risk of physical danger or psychological harm to the child" (C.G.S. § 46b-56f). If it does, the judge can issue a temporary emergency order. This order might grant you temporary custody and prevent your spouse from having contact with the child, among other protections.
A Full Hearing is Scheduled: The court must schedule a full hearing quickly. C.G.S. § 46b-56f(c) states this hearing must happen "not later than fourteen days after the date of such ex parte order." At this hearing, both you and your spouse will have the opportunity to present evidence and testimony.
Serve Your Spouse: You must have a state marshal serve your spouse with a copy of your application, your affidavit, and the judge's ex parte order (if one was granted). According to C.G.S. § 46b-56f(d), this must be done "not less than five days before the hearing." This ensures your spouse has legal notice and an opportunity to respond.

Important Considerations and Practical Advice

Be Specific and Truthful: Whether in an affidavit for an emergency order or a motion for contempt, always be honest and provide as much detail as possible. Vague claims are less likely to be successful.
Violation of an Order is Serious: If your spouse violates either the automatic orders or a specific restraining order, you can file a Motion for Contempt (Practice Book § 25-27). This motion asks the court to enforce its order and can result in penalties for the violating party, including fines and even jail time. The court can also order the person found in contempt to pay your attorney's fees (C.G.S. § 46b-87).
Impact on Custody: The presence of domestic violence is a significant factor the court considers when making custody decisions. C.G.S. § 46b-56(c) explicitly lists "the effect on the child of the actions of an abuser, if any domestic violence... has occurred" as a factor in determining the child's best interests.
Getting Exclusive Use of the Home: If you need your spouse to leave the family home, you can file a Motion for Exclusive Possession (Practice Book § 25-25). An emergency custody order can also include provisions that affect who lives in the home to ensure the child's safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the "automatic orders" in a Connecticut divorce?

The automatic orders are a set of financial and custodial rules that apply to both spouses as soon as a divorce is filed and served. As outlined in Practice Book § 25-5, they prevent either party from selling major assets, changing insurance policies, taking on large debts, or moving the children out of state without permission. They are designed to keep the situation stable while the divorce is ongoing.

What's the difference between a restraining order and an emergency custody order?

A general civil restraining order (for relief from abuse) is focused on protecting a person from physical harm, stalking, or threats from a family or household member. An Emergency Ex Parte Order of Custody (C.G.S. § 46b-56f) is specifically designed to protect a child who is at immediate risk of physical or psychological harm. While the circumstances often overlap, the legal focus is different.

How much does it cost to get a restraining order during a divorce in Connecticut?

There are no court filing fees for an Application for Relief from Abuse or an Application for an Emergency Ex Parte Order of Custody. However, you will have to pay a state marshal to serve the papers on your spouse. If you hire an attorney to represent you, you will also have attorney's fees.

What happens if my spouse violates the automatic financial orders?

If your spouse drains a bank account, sells the car, or violates any other automatic order, you can file a Motion for Contempt. Practice Book § 25-27 requires this motion to state the specific order that was violated and the actions that constituted the violation. If the judge finds your spouse in contempt, they can be ordered to reverse the transaction, pay fines, and cover your legal fees.

Can a restraining order force my spouse to move out of the house?

Yes, it's possible. An emergency order granted under C.G.S. § 46b-56f can include provisions that give you temporary exclusive use of the family home to protect the child. Separately, you can file a Motion for Exclusive Possession (Practice Book § 25-25) asking the judge to order your spouse to leave while the divorce is pending.

How long does a restraining order last?

An ex parte (emergency) order is very short-term, lasting only until the full court hearing, which is typically scheduled within 14 days. After the full hearing, a judge can issue an order that lasts for a longer period, often up to one year, which can be extended if necessary. Automatic orders remain in effect until the divorce is finalized.

Do I need a lawyer to get a restraining order in my divorce?

You are not required to have a lawyer, and the court system has forms and resources for self-represented parties. However, getting a restraining order during a divorce in Connecticut can be complex, and the outcome can significantly impact your entire case. Having an experienced family law attorney is highly recommended to ensure your rights are protected and your application is presented effectively.

What if I am falsely accused and served with a restraining order?

If you are served with an application for a restraining order that you believe is false, it is critical to take it seriously. Do not violate the temporary order in any way. Your priority should be to contact a family law attorney immediately. You will have a chance to present your side of the story at the court hearing. Your attorney can help you prepare your defense, gather evidence, and cross-examine the person who made the allegations.

Getting Help

Your safety and your children's safety are the top priority. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

For legal protection and guidance through the court process:

Consult a Connecticut Family Law Attorney: An experienced lawyer can provide advice tailored to your specific situation, help you file the correct paperwork, and represent you in court. This is the most effective way to protect your interests.
Connecticut Judicial Branch Website: The state's court website (jud.ct.gov) has official forms, information, and resources for people going through divorce and seeking protective orders.
Statewide Domestic Violence Resources: Organizations like CT Safe Connect offer confidential support, safety planning, and resources 24/7.

Conclusion

Securing a restraining order during a divorce in Connecticut is a legal process designed to provide a shield of protection when you need it most. Whether through the built-in automatic orders that preserve financial and custodial stability or an emergency ex parte order that protects a child from immediate harm, the law offers powerful tools to ensure safety. Remember to be thorough, honest, and specific when presenting your case to the court. This is a difficult and emotional journey, but you do not have to go through it alone. Seeking support from a qualified attorney and local resources can empower you to navigate this process and move toward a safer future.