How to File for Divorce in New Hampshire Without a Lawyer (2026 Guide)

Overview: Filing for Divorce in New Hampshire Without a Lawyer

New Hampshire requires 1 year residency with no specified waiting period. The state uses equitable distribution and considers fault as a factor. DIY divorce is possible for uncontested cases.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in New Hampshire?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Both agree to divorce
No minor children or agreement on custody/support
Agreement on property division
No contested alimony
Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex property division
Fault grounds affect settlement
Significant assets
Spouse contests

Find New Hampshire Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in New Hampshire

Step 1

Meet 1-Year Residency

Either spouse must have lived in New Hampshire for 1 year before filing.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

NH driver's license
Voter registration
Exceptions may apply

Step 2

Complete Petition for Divorce

Fill out Petition for Divorce form.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $250-300
State irreconcilable differences
Use NH court forms

Step 3

File with Circuit Court

Submit petition to circuit court - family division.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 day

💡 Tips:

Bring original + copies
Pay filing fee
Get case number

Step 4

Serve Your Spouse

Have spouse served by authorized person.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Sheriff or process server
Spouse can accept service

Step 5

Exchange Financial Affidavits

Both complete detailed financial affidavits.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List all income, assets, debts

Step 6

Draft Permanent Stipulation

Create comprehensive settlement agreement.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

💡 Tips:

Address all property
Include parenting plan if children
Both must sign and notarize

Step 7

Attend Final Hearing

Appear before judge for final hearing.

⏱ Estimated Time: 30-60 minutes

💡 Tips:

Usually required in NH
Bring all documents
Answer judge's questions

Step 8

Receive Final Decree

Court issues Final Decree of Divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: Immediately

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for New Hampshire Divorce

Petition for Divorce (NHJB-2064-DF)

Required

📄 Download Form

Financial Affidavit (NHJB-2068-DF)

Required

Permanent Stipulation (NHJB-2076-DF)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for New Hampshire DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$300-400

Filing fee: $250-300
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$4,000-20,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View New Hampshire Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not meeting 1-year residency

Incomplete financial affidavits

Not notarizing stipulation

Missing final hearing

Frequently Asked Questions About New Hampshire DIY Divorce

Does New Hampshire have a waiting period for divorce?

New Hampshire has no specified waiting period after filing, though the process typically takes several months for court processing.

Does fault matter in New Hampshire divorce?

Yes, New Hampshire is one of the states that still considers fault as a factor in alimony determinations, though no-fault grounds (irreconcilable differences) are available.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in New Hampshire?

Yes, though New Hampshire procedures can be complex. The court system provides forms and some self-help resources.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in New Hampshire, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find New Hampshire Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer