Take the first step today: download the New Hampshire divorce papers and start your journey toward a new beginning.
Get your divorce papersWhat Divorce Papers needs to be valid in New Hampshire
- You or your spouse must have lived in New Hampshire for at least one year before filing, unless the marriage was performed in New Hampshire or you have a military connection.
- You must have a legal ground for divorce, such as irreconcilable differences, living separate and apart for at least 18 months, or other recognized grounds.
- You need to complete the required divorce forms, including the Petition for Divorce and a Summons.
- If you have minor children, you must complete a parenting plan and provide information about child support.
- Both spouses must sign the divorce papers, and your signatures must be notarized unless you file electronically.
- You must pay the filing fee when you submit your papers to the court.
How to set up a Divorce Papers in New Hampshire
- Obtain the divorce forms: You can download them from the New Hampshire Judicial Branch website or pick them up from your local family court.
- Fill out the forms: Provide your information, your spouse's details, and any agreements you have reached regarding property, debts, and children.
- Notarize your signatures: After filling out the forms, sign them in front of a notary public. Your spouse will also need to sign and notarize their copy.
- File the papers: Take the completed forms to the family court in the county where you or your spouse reside. Pay the filing fee (or request a fee waiver if you qualify).
- Serve your spouse: If your spouse doesn't sign voluntarily, you must arrange for them to be officially served with the divorce papers.
- Attend your court hearing: Even in an uncontested divorce, you may need to appear for a final hearing. After the hearing, the judge will issue your final divorce decree.
How much it costs
The filing fee for a divorce in New Hampshire typically ranges from $200 to $350, depending on the county and whether you file jointly or individually. If you are facing financial hardship, you can apply for a fee waiver. Additional costs may include notary fees, service of process, and attorney fees if you choose legal representation.
New Hampshire Divorce Paper Checklist
Before you start filling out your New Hampshire divorce papers, gather the right information and understand the state's requirements to avoid delays.
- Confirm you meet New Hampshire's residency requirement: you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least one year before filing.
- Have your marriage certificate, your spouse's full legal name and address, and details about any children (like birth dates and Social Security numbers) ready.
- Decide on grounds for divorce: New Hampshire allows no-fault (irreconcilable differences) and fault-based grounds, but no-fault is simpler for uncontested cases.
- Know that New Hampshire does not require notarization for most divorce forms, but you must sign them in the presence of a clerk or notary if specified; check each form's instructions.
- Prepare financial documents: income, expenses, assets, debts, and any existing separation agreements, as these are needed for property division and support calculations.
- File your completed forms at the Family Division of the Superior Court in the county where either you or your spouse resides, and pay the filing fee (waiver may be available if you qualify).
Questions people ask
How long does it take to get divorced in New Hampshire?
In an uncontested divorce, the process can take as little as 30 days after filing, but it often takes 2-4 months depending on court scheduling and how quickly both parties cooperate.
Can I file for divorce without a lawyer?
Yes, you can file for divorce without a lawyer, especially if your divorce is uncontested. The court provides self-help resources, and you can get assistance from the Family Division self-help center.
Do I need to appear in court?
In many cases, yes. Even if your divorce is uncontested, a judge must review your case. Some counties allow 'uncontested divorce hearings' where you appear briefly to confirm your agreement. Remote hearings may also be available.
What if my spouse doesn't agree to the divorce?
If your spouse contests the divorce or refuses to sign the papers, you can still proceed by serving them with a summons. The court will schedule a hearing, and if one spouse proves the grounds, the divorce can be granted without agreement.