Getting a divorce can be a complex and challenging process, and it becomes even more complicated when you were married in a foreign country. If you are currently residing in New Hampshire and seeking to end your marriage, this article aims to provide you with an understanding of the legal procedures involved.
Residency Requirements: Unveiling the Eligibility Criteria
Before filing for a divorce in the state of New Hampshire, it is crucial to fulfill the residency requirements. Under these requirements, either you or your spouse must have resided in the state for a minimum of one year prior to the filing of the divorce petition. However, if you and your spouse currently reside in the state, you can file for divorce in the county where either of you resides.
Grounds for Divorce: Embracing the ‘No-Fault’ Approach
New Hampshire follows a ‘no-fault’ divorce approach, indicating that you do not need to provide a specific reason to seek a divorce. Instead, you can simply assert that your marriage has irreparably broken down, and this will serve as a sufficient basis to initiate the divorce process. However, if you prefer to file for divorce on grounds such as adultery or desertion, it is advisable to seek legal counsel to ensure the appropriate course of action.
Navigating Divorce Proceedings in New Hampshire after a Foreign Marriage
If your marriage took place in a foreign country, it will not hinder your eligibility for divorce in the state of New Hampshire. As long as either you or your spouse meets the residency requirements, you can proceed with filing for divorce.
Commencing the divorce process necessitates the submission of a petition for divorce to the county clerk’s office in the county where you or your spouse resides. The petition must encompass vital information concerning both parties, including their names, addresses, and the grounds on which the divorce is being sought. Additionally, you must attach a copy of your marriage certificate as evidence of the marriage.
To cover administrative costs, a filing fee of $215 is required for the petition for divorce in New Hampshire, which encompasses the processing fee for the divorce decree.
Engaging the Services of a Divorce Attorney: Ensuring Expert Guidance
To navigate the divorce process smoothly in New Hampshire, it is highly recommended that you seek legal advice. An experienced divorce attorney can provide valuable guidance throughout the proceedings and present you with the best possible options to achieve a favorable outcome.
Moreover, hiring a skilled attorney becomes even more important if your spouse resides in a different state or country, as it can potentially complicate the divorce process further.
Summary: A Comprehensive Recapitulation
In summary, individuals who were married in a foreign country can indeed obtain a divorce in New Hampshire. To initiate the process, one of the spouses must meet the residency requirements, and a petition for divorce must be filed with the county clerk’s office. Seeking the guidance of a divorce attorney is vital to successfully navigate the intricacies of the divorce proceedings and secure the best possible outcome.