Divorces can often be a highly demanding and overwhelming experience, both emotionally and financially. However, in the state of New Hampshire, there exists a streamlined and relatively straightforward process for filing for a no-fault divorce. In such divorces, neither spouse carries the blame for the breakdown of their marriage. To guide you through this process, we have prepared a comprehensive step-by-step guide that will help you navigate the intricacies with ease and understanding.

Step 1: Verify Residency

First and foremost, before initiating a divorce filing in New Hampshire, it is essential to ascertain the residency of one spouse. The individual initiating the divorce proceedings must be a bona fide resident of New Hampshire for at least a period of one year.

Step 2: Determine Eligibility

It is important to note that New Hampshire exclusively recognizes and permits no-fault divorces. Essentially, this means that neither spouse is obligated to establish or prove fault. However, not all couples are entitled to obtain a divorce in this manner. In order to be eligible for a no-fault divorce, the following conditions must be fulfilled:

• The party initiating the divorce has been a resident of New Hampshire for a minimum period of one year.
• Both parties mutually agree that their marriage has irrevocably deteriorated.
• The couple does not have any minor children.
• The spouses have come to a mutually satisfactory agreement regarding the division of assets and debts.

Only when these conditions are satisfied can the couple proceed with filing for a no-fault divorce.

Step 3: File A Petition For Divorce

The spouse meeting the residency requirements must file a petition for a no-fault divorce with the court. This petition should incorporate the following particulars:

• The name and address of the filing spouse.
• The name and address of the other spouse.
• The date and place of the marriage.
• A statement affirming the agreement of both parties that the marriage has irretrievably disintegrated.
• A proposed settlement agreement outlining the equitable division of assets and debts.
• A request for any additional relief that the court may deem appropriate.

Step 4: Serve The Other Spouse

Once the divorce petition has been filed, it becomes necessary to serve the other spouse with a copy of the petition, along with a summons and any other pertinent documentation. This is commonly referred to as the "service of process" and must be executed by an individual who is not directly involved in the case and is over the age of 18.

Step 5: Wait For A Response

Following the service of process, the spouse who has been served with the divorce petition is given a period of 30 days to respond. Failure to submit a response within the designated time frame may result in a default judgment being issued in favor of the filing spouse.

Step 6: Attend A Divorce Hearing

If both parties have successfully reached an agreement on the division of assets and debts, the divorce hearing may likely be a relatively uncomplicated process. However, it is possible that couples may be required to attend a final hearing before a judge to ultimately finalize their divorce.

Step 7: Finalize The Divorce

Subsequent to the divorce hearing, the judge will grant the divorce and issue a final divorce decree, which will come into effect after a span of 30 days. Significantly, this date also marks the point at which both spouses become free to remarry if they so choose.

Conclusion

Though the process of divorce commonly invokes feelings of stress and anxiety, New Hampshire’s no-fault divorce process has been tailored to ensure simplicity and ease. By adhering to the eligibility requirements outlined above and following the comprehensive steps provided, couples can navigate this process with minimal disruption to their lives. If additional inquiries or legal advice are required, it is highly recommended to consult with a divorce attorney who can offer valuable guidance and support.