How to File for Divorce

One of the following must apply to file for divorce in New Hampshire:  1)  both parties live in New Hampshire; or 2) the petitioner (the spouse starting the divorce action) has lived in New Hampshire for one year; or 3) the petitioner lives in New Hampshire and their spouse can be served with divorce papers in New Hampshire.

If Children are Involved

Choose one of two petition forms to begin the divorce process. Follow instructions for each form.

• See our Joint Petition for Divorce page if both spouses agree to get divorced, although they may not agree on division of property or parental rights and responsibilities or support. Using a Joint Petition to begin the divorce process avoids the cost of formal service of legal papers.

• Otherwise, if you want to file as an individual, see the Petition for Divorce page.
  

• Although time frames vary, an uncontested divorce can usually be completed in a matter of months.  In a contested case where the parties cannot agree on how to resolve the case, the process will take much longer.
  

• The filing fee for divorce is $145 if you do not have children.  The fee for petitions for divorce with children or any other petition relating to children is $147.  There are limited circumstances under which the court can waive a fee. 

How to Obtain a Certified Copy of Your Divorce

Back to How to File For Divorce and Support