Divorce in Vermont
October 24, 2022

In Vermont, you can file for a fault-based or no-fault divorce. The basic requirements for divorce in Vermont are that you or your spouse has lived in the state for a minimum of six months, and you have lived separately for at least six months. 


Grounds for Divorce in Vermont


Although Vermont allows no-fault divorces, you can also file on certain grounds. A judge can grant a divorce on the grounds of: 


  • Adultery;
  • Imprisonment, of at least three years;
  • Intolerable cruelty;
  • Willful desertion and absence of at least seven years;
  • Neglect of reasonable support; and
  • Permanent incapacitation. 


Can I Get Spousal Maintenance in Vermont? 


Also referred to as alimony, spousal maintenance is a form of financial support paid by one spouse to another, for a period of time or indefinitely. Spousal support is not always awarded, and if it is, the amount and duration will be based on multiple factors. 


When alimony is requested, the judge will make a decision based on the following: 

  • Each spouse’s financial resources; 
  • Whether or not child support is being paid: 
  • The length of the marriage;
  • The standard of living during the marriage;
  • The ability of the receiving spouse to get the education or training necessary for gainful employment; 
  • Each spouse’s age and physical condition;
  • Inflation; and
  • Remarriage of either spouse. 


When a judge does grant spousal support, the payments will either be temporary (known as rehabilitative), or long-term. It is very rare for a judge to award long-term alimony payments. This typically only occurs in the most extreme cases. 


Contact a Vermont Divorce Lawyer Today


It is a common misconception that do-it-yourself divorces save time and money, but issues can arise in even the most amicable splits. Whether you are just considering divorce or well into the process, it is in your best interest to work with a VT divorce attorney. At Deppman Law PLC, our experienced, compassionate divorce lawyers will review your situation and help you obtain the outcome you want in the quickest, most seamless, and least costly manner possible. Contact Benj and Lesley Deppman today to schedule a confidential consultation. 

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