A divorce decree is a legal document signed by the judge that officially terminates the marriage. The divorce decree typically includes the judge’s ruling on all matters related to the marriage and any minor children—including division of marital or community property, payment of marital or community debts, spousal support, child custody, child visitation, child support, any obligation to provide health insurance for minor children, and the payment of extracurricular expenses for minor children.

These determinations or rulings set forth in the divorce decree become legally enforceable obligations when the judge signs the divorce decree—and may be enforced by further legal action in the court if one or both of the former spouses fail to comply with the terms of the divorce decree.

In Connecticut, a divorce decree is the final judgment that legally ends a marriage, issued by a judge after the resolution of all divorce-related matters. This decree encompasses decisions on the division of marital assets and debts, alimony (spousal support), child custody and visitation rights, child support, and any requirements for health insurance coverage for minor children, as well as other relevant issues. Once the judge signs the divorce decree, the terms outlined become enforceable legal obligations. If either party fails to comply with the terms of the decree, the other party may seek enforcement through the court. This could involve filing a motion for contempt or other legal remedies to ensure compliance. The specifics of the divorce process and enforcement of a divorce decree in Connecticut are governed by state statutes, including but not limited to the Connecticut General Statutes Title 46b - Family Law.