Vermont courts decide divorce outcomes based on equitable distribution principles, prioritizing the child’s best interests for custody and considering factors like income disparity for alimony. No-fault divorces require six months of separation with no reconciliation likely, while residency demands one year for at least one spouse.​
Child Custody
Courts award parental rights and responsibilities using a “best interests” standard under 15 V.S.A. § 665, evaluating parental fitness, child adjustment, sibling relationships, and any abuse history without presuming maternal preference. Legal custody often splits decision-making, while physical custody favors shared parenting unless evidence shows harm; modifications need substantial change in circumstances.​
Alimony (Spousal Maintenance)
Alimony awards under § 752 consider duration of marriage, parties’ ages, health, income sources, employability, and standard of living, typically short-term for rehabilitative support rather than permanent. Courts divide marital property equitably—not equally—factoring contributions, needs, and liquidity, with no automatic 50/50 split.​
Court Process
Uncontested divorces with stipulations proceed faster via simplified forms, waiving hearings if complete; contested cases involve temporary orders and trials. Parties can resume prior names, and remarriage is immediate post-decree; seek forms from Vermont Judiciary or Legal Services.
[1](https://legislature.vermont.gov/statutes/fullchapter/15/011)
[2](https://www.divorcenet.com/resources/filing-for-divorce/vermont.htm)
[3](https://www.womenslaw.org/laws/vt/divorce)
[4](https://www.middlaw.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-divorce-in-vermont)
[5](https://vtlawhelp.org/roadmap/divorce/step-1)
