Most divorces in Colorado take about 6-9 months to complete, depending upon the issues involved, and especially upon whether they are contested or not. There is no one set of procedures that will apply to every case, since the necessary steps will depend upon the specific issues in your case.
What forms are needed to file for divorce in Colorado?
The basic initial forms you need will be the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage or Legal Separation (JDF 1101) and the Case Information Sheet (JDF 1000). When you’re filing for uncontested divorce, you may complete and file the petition jointly (as “petitioner” and “co-petitioner”).
Can You Do Your Own divorce in Colorado?
You don’t need to hire a lawyer to get an uncontested divorce in Colorado, and you can represent yourself during the process. Spouses can try to handle everything themselves or use an online service that eases the process.
What are the steps to getting a divorce in Colorado?
- 1) Initial Petition for Divorce: Both parties or one person must file in Colorado.
- 2) Review All Divorce Documents from the Court:
- 3) Personal Service and Proof of Service:
- 4) Complete All Colorado Divorce Forms:
- 5) Initial Status Conference:
- 6) Divorce Mediation:
How do I serve divorce papers in Colorado?
Methods of service – There are two ways to serve divorce papers in Colorado: via personal service (or hand delivery) or via certified mail (with a return receipt requested). Who can serve – You can hire a professional process server or have a friend or family member serve the divorce papers.
How do I start the divorce process?
- There might come a point in your life where you feel that divorce is the only option you have.
- 1) File a document, called a Petition, to the Court to initiate the divorce process.
- 2) Apply for a Decree Nisi.
- 3) Apply for a Decree Absolute.
How much does a Colorado divorce cost?
You may be surprised to hear that the average cost of a divorce in Colorado is between $9,800 and $11,800, according to research from Martindale-Nolo. This includes the cost of hiring the lawyers and/or mediators from the beginning to the end of the process, as well as filing fees, court fees and other sundry costs.
Can you get a divorce in Colorado without going to court?
In the case of an uncontested divorce (or a “decree upon affidavit” as it is known in Colorado) the court may grant a divorce after you submit an affidavit rather than you having to appear in court for a hearing. This can make the process less stressful and time-consuming and more convenient for both partners.
How fast can a divorce be finalized in Colorado?
A statutory 91-day waiting period The minimum time that a divorce will take from the filing of the initial petition in Colorado is 91 days. After you file for divorce and serve papers on the other party, the court must wait 91 days before granting the divorce.
Do I have to go to court for divorce in Colorado?
In Colorado, you CAN get a divorce decree without ever stepping foot inside the courthouse. If this is your goal, the most reliable way to ensure that you avoid ever going to court (and, in some cases, the only way) is for you and your spouse to consult with and work with attorneys.
What is the fastest way to get a divorce in Colorado?
- Do It Yourself (pro-se).
- Uncontested Divorce.
- Mediated Divorce.
Can I do a divorce myself?
Anyone can opt for a DIY divorce or dissolution, but that doesn’t mean it’s suitable for everyone. As a guide, you might be able to sort out your divorce or dissolution and your finances yourself if: your ex-partner agrees to a divorce or dissolution, or you’ve been separated for five years or more.
Do Colorado divorce papers need to be notarized?
Yes, some of the divorce papers in Colorado may have to be notarized. Particularly, any type of affidavit or sworn legal statements (e.g., a Sworn Financial Statement) should be signed either in front of a court clerk or a notary public to avoid any grounds for subsequent disputes.
How long do you have to serve divorce papers in Colorado?
During the Preliminary Stage, a summons and petition are filed with the court system, and your spouse is considered “served” with divorce papers. Under Colorado law, you have a minimum of 91 days between the time your spouse is served until an official divorce decree can be granted.
Can anyone serve papers in Colorado?
WHO CAN SERVE LEGAL PROCESS IN COLORADO. The sheriff of the county where the Colorado Process Service is made, a deputy, or any other person over eighteen who is not a party to the action, may serve the process within or outside of Colorado.
What can be used against you in a divorce?
Spending marital money on extramarital affairs. Transferring marital funds to another person before a separation. Spending unreasonable amounts on business expenditures. Selling marital assets below the market value.
What are the five stages of divorce?
- There are two processes in divorce.
- Denial is the first stage of divorce.
- Anger is the second stage of divorce.
- Bargaining is the third stage of divorce.
- Depression is the fourth stage of divorce.
- Acceptance is the fifth stage of divorce.
What are the three stages of divorce?
- Phase One: Completing, Filing and Service of the Initial Paperwork.
- Phase Two: Financial Disclosures and the Initial Status Conference.
- Phase Three: Working out and Finalizing the Terms of your Divorce.
- Simplifying the Process.
What happens after you file for divorce in Colorado?
By law, the Initial Status Conference must happen within 42 days of the filing of your case. Bring the forms required by your Case Management Order with you to the Initial Status Conference. You will most likely meet with a Family Court Facilitator at your Initial Status Conference.
How many years do you have to be married to get alimony in Colorado?
Requirements for Spousal Maintenance First, you must be married for at least ten years. Second, you must show that you are unable to support yourself. Lastly, you must show that your spouse is able to support you. If you meet these requirements, then you may be eligible for alimony in Colorado.
Is Colorado a alimony state?
Colorado is considered to be an alimony-friendly state. So, if you’re contemplating divorce or have already begun the process, we encourage you to take some time to understand how the state’s alimony laws could affect you.
Can you date while separated in Colorado?
Can I date while legally separated from my spouse? According to Colorado law, while you are legally separated from your spouse, you are still technically married. You can date other people without violating bigamy laws. Colorado is a no-fault state which does not consider fault in reasons for divorce.
Can you get a divorce without the other person signing the papers in Colorado?
In Colorado, our Courts only require one party to sign and file a divorce petition to begin the divorce process.
Is Colorado a 50/50 state divorce?
No, Colorado is an “equitable distribution” state, not a “community property state”. Meaning that your house — a marital property — is not automatically divided equally (50:50) during the divorce. Instead, the judge analyzes your personal circumstances and suggests a “fair” division.
How long does a amicable divorce take in Colorado?
Realistically, the average divorce timeline for an uncontested divorce in Colorado is closer to 4 months. Couples who choose to go to trial through a contested divorce, rather than settle outside of the courtroom, should expect a longer timeline — 6+ months from our experience.