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

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Vermont Without a Lawyer

Vermont requires 6 months residency with a 6-month separation period. The state divides all property equitably regardless of acquisition method. DIY divorce requires patience for the separation period.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Vermont?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

Separated 6 months
Both agree on divorce and all terms
Agreement on all property division (all-property state)
No spousal support disputes
Both willing to cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

Child custody or support disputes
Complex property division
Significant assets
Separation less than 6 months
Contested grounds

Find Vermont Divorce Lawyers →

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Vermont

Step 1

Verify 6-Month Residency

You or your spouse must have lived in Vermont for 6 months.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A

💡 Tips:

VT driver's license
Lease or property deed
Voter registration

Step 2

Separate From Spouse

Begin living separate and apart for 6 months.

⏱ Estimated Time: 6 months

💡 Tips:

Document separation date
Sign separation agreement
Must live apart continuously

Step 3

Complete Complaint for Divorce

File Complaint for Divorce with family court.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours

💡 Tips:

Filing fee: $100-200
Use VT court forms
After 6-month separation

Step 4

Serve Your Spouse

Serve spouse by process server or sheriff.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks

💡 Tips:

Cannot serve yourself
Spouse can waive service

Step 5

File Answer (if uncontested)

Spouse files answer agreeing to divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1 week

💡 Tips:

Required for uncontested

Step 6

Exchange Financial Disclosures

Both complete and exchange financial information.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Required disclosure
List ALL property (all-property state)

Step 7

Prepare Marital Settlement Agreement

Create settlement dividing all property equitably.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-8 hours

💡 Tips:

Address all property regardless of acquisition
Include parenting plan if children

Step 8

File Final Documents

Submit settlement and final documents.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours

💡 Tips:

Both signatures required

Step 9

Receive Final Judgment

Court issues final judgment of divorce.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-3 weeks

💡 Tips:

Request certified copies
Effective immediately

Required Forms for Vermont Divorce

Complaint for Divorce (Varies)

Required

📄 Download Form

Marital Settlement Agreement (Custom)

Required

Final Judgment (Varies)

Required

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

Cost Breakdown for Vermont DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$150-300

Filing fee: $100-200
Service fee: $50-100
Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$2,000-10,000

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

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

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Not separating for full 6 months

Not meeting residency requirement

Incomplete financial disclosures

Not addressing all property (all-property division)

Missing settlement details

Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont DIY Divorce

What does 'all property' mean in Vermont?

Vermont can divide all property regardless of when or how it was acquired, including property from before marriage if deemed fair.

Why is the waiting period so long in Vermont?

Vermont requires 6 months separation before filing, one of the longest separation periods in the nation.

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Vermont?

Yes, Vermont allows self-representation, though the separation requirement makes it a longer process.

Need Professional Help?

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

Find Vermont Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer