Laying the Legal Groundwork: What to Expect in Stage 2 of Your Divorce

Now that we’ve mapped out your initial case strategy, it’s time to start putting that plan into action. Stage 2, “Laying the Legal Groundwork” is about setting up the foundation for your divorce case. Below, we’ll walk you through what happens during this phase, what you need to do, and what to expect next.

Key Components of Stage 2

1.  Initial Court Filings

The first step in this phase is making the necessary court filings to officially begin the divorce process (or respond if your spouse has already filed). These may include:

• Freed Marcroft’s Appearance as your attorneys, formally notifying the court that we represent you.
• The Petition for Divorce (if you are the one initiating the case).
• The Answer (if your spouse filed first and you’re responding to a divorce).
• The Cross Complaint (if applicable).
• Any early Motions we’ve built into your Case Plan.
• Serving Your Spouse: If you are the one initiating your divorce, we will coordinate serving your spouse. It’s natural to feel some anxiety around this step, but we’ll walk you through it.  Service is typically handled by state marshals, and while we don’t control every aspect of it, we’ll make sure you understand your options ahead of time.

2.  Resolution Plan Date (RPD)

The court will likely schedule your  Resolution Plan Date (RPD) during this phase.  The RPD is often the first scheduled court event in Connecticut divorces. It is a meeting with court staff—not a hearing in front of a judge—designed for the court to conduct an initial analysis of the court services they think your case is likely to require.

We will notify you when the court schedules your RPD. Then, we will schedule a telephone conference with you and your legal team to discuss the particulars of your case and what to expect at your RPD.  Depending on your case strategy, we may also recommend an alternative to attending the RPD.

In other words, depending on our strategy, we may:

• Attend the RPD as scheduled.
• Request a continuance.
• Recommend a stipulation in place of attending.

No matter what, you’ll have a solid plan for the RPD rooted in both your short- and long-term goals.

Read: What Is a Resolution Plan Date?

3.  Financial Preparation

At this stage, you’ll continue gathering financial documents and completing your Financial Affidavit, which provides a snapshot of your financials.  This document is crucial in divorce cases and will be used to guide discussions on asset division, support, and other financial matters.  *The Court requires we file your first signed and notarized financial affidavit be filed at least 2 days before your RPD. This phase may also be when you first review your spouse’s financial affidavit.

Read: Key Things to Know About Your Financial Affidavit

Managing Stress During This Phase

It’s completely normal to feel a mix of emotions during this phase. Some common concerns include:

• The Uncertainty of the Legal Process: This is a new experience, and uncertainty can be stressful. We are here to help break it down into manageable steps and explain what comes next.
• Serving Your Spouse: If service hasn’t happened yet, you might be anxious about their reaction. We will help you understand the process and set expectations.
• The Resolution Plan Date (RPD): This is your first court date, and while it’s not a hearing before a judge, it can feel intimidating. We’ll prepare you in advance so you know what to expect.
• Financial Disclosures: Completing your Financial Affidavit can feel overwhelming, but it’s more than just a court requirement—it moves your case forward and sets the stage for negotiations.

Read: Understanding and Healing: Navigating the Five Stages of Divorce Grief

Your To-Dos During This Phase

This is your opportunity to take control of the process and stay proactive. Each step you complete moves you closer to your goals and helps ensure a smoother transition.

✔ Learn More: Educate yourself on this part of your case so you know what to expect.
✔ Follow Through: Continue taking the steps outlined in your Discovery Kickoff plan.
✔ Review and Approve Filings: As we prepare and send you draft documents, review them carefully and provide your approval or any revisions.

Looking Ahead

While there may be bumps along the way, keep your focus on the future—each step in this process is progress. We’re here to guide you through the legal details step by step, allowing you to stay centered on building the next chapter of your life. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out on Case Status. We are here to make sure you feel confident and informed as we move forward together.