Vermont Family Laws

At least one party must have resided in Vermont for 6 months before filing. A final divorce decree cannot be entered until at least one party has resided in Vermont for 1 year.

Vermont allows no-fault divorce when the parties have lived apart for 6 consecutive months and resumption of the marriage is not reasonably probable. Fault-based grounds include adultery, imprisonment for 3+ years, intolerable severity, desertion for 7 years, and failure to support.

The court shall equitably divide and assign all property, including both marital and premarital property. Factors include length of marriage, age and health of parties, occupation and earning capacity, contributions (including nonmonetary), and the value of each party's property.

Courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child, considering factors including the relationship of the child with each parent, the ability of each parent to provide love, guidance, and education, and the child's adjustment to home, school, and community.

Vermont uses an income shares model. The total child support obligation is divided between parents in proportion to their respective available incomes. The noncustodial parent pays their share to the custodial parent.

The court may order either spouse to make maintenance payments if the requesting spouse lacks sufficient income or property to meet reasonable needs, or is unable to support themselves through appropriate employment.

Victims of domestic abuse may petition for a temporary or final relief from abuse order. The court can order the defendant to stay away, vacate the home, and refrain from contact. Violations are criminal offenses.