Divorce in Colorado
Whether you’ve been thinking about divorce for a long time or you’re just beginning to explore your options, you’re in the right place. The divorce process involves three major steps (filing, serving, and then working out a settlement agreement and other divorce terms). However, rules, forms, and fees vary by state or even by county. Scroll down this page to find our most useful (and free) resources to guide you before, during, and after divorce in Colorado.
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Important Information About Divorce in Colorado
Filing for divorce in Colorado is relatively simple, but actually getting divorced requires a long list of forms. But no need to get overwhelmed – we explain all the steps to you and our Divorce Navigator software guides you through all the forms. If you get stuck, we can help. To get started, check out some of our most helpful resources for divorce in the state of Colorado.
Top Resources for Divorce in Colorado
Colorado Marriage & Divorce Laws
You're not required to find fault with your partner to get a Colorado divorce, although you can also cite grounds if your reason qualifies. There are several laws and state rules to be aware of, though. See our resources below for key information.
Resources for Marriage and Divorce Laws in Colorado
Finances, Property and Support
One of the most stressful parts of divorce is deciding who gets what and determining who must pay off marital debt. Spouses must reach agreements on things like splitting assets and debts, either on their own or with outside help from a mediator, financial advisor or attorney.
Initial Status Conference
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
In Colorado, maintenance (spousal support) can be ordered for two different phases of divorce: during the divorce ("temporary maintenance") or after the divorce is finalized ("permanent maintenance").
Child Custody Mediation
Depending upon which county you reside in, or if you and your former partner are unable to agree on child custody and/or visitation issues, you will likely be required to participate in child custody mediation.
Mandatory Financial Disclosures
Divorcing couples are required by law to share their personal financial information with each other. This process helps make the process of dividing your marital estate (home, vehicles, debts, and such) as fair as possible.
Colorado's Required Parenting Classes by County
When divorcing with minor children in Colorado, some counties require you to attend parenting classes.
Other Important Topics about Divorce in Colorado
Just as every couple is different, so is every divorce. Some couples can use checklists and other free resources to DIY their divorce through the Colorado court system, while others need more help.
Others, including couples with at least one spouse in the military or couples with complicated scenarios (substantial assets, debts, custody concerns, an uncooperative spouse), must follow additional rules.
Related Topics
FAQ
Who can file for divorce in Colorado?
You or your spouse must have lived in Colorado for at least 91 days before filing. If children are involved, additional residence rules may apply for them (jurisdiction and parenting issues). Colorado Judicial Branch
How long does a Colorado divorce take at minimum?
Colorado has a 91-day waiting period after filing and service (or joint filing) before the court can finalize the case—even if everything is agreed. Colorado Judicial BranchColorado Legal Group
Is Colorado a no-fault state?
Yes. The legal ground is irretrievable breakdown of the marriage; courts do not assign fault for purposes of granting the divorce. FindLaw
Is there a formula for spousal support (maintenance) in Colorado?
Colorado uses advisory maintenance guidelines. A commonly referenced guideline is 40% of the higher earner’s gross monthly income minus 50% of the lower earner’s, subject to caps and eligibility. Judges may deviate based on the facts.
How is child support calculated?
Colorado follows an Income Shares model under C.R.S. 14-10-115, which looks at both parents’ incomes and other factors to set a presumptive amount. You can always agree on another amount, however.
How much are the filing fees?
Fees are set by the Colorado Judicial Branch and updated periodically. As of the Judicial Branch’s current List of Fees, divorce/separation/annulment petitions are listed with a statewide filing fee—check the live schedule before you file because amounts can change. Colorado Judicial Branch
Where do I file my case?
File in the district court for the county where you or your spouse lives.
How to Get Divorced in Colorado (Step by Step)
Confirm eligibility.
Make sure at least one spouse has 91 days of Colorado residency and that the marriage is irretrievably broken (no-fault).
Decide your process.
Choose uncontested, mediation, or litigation. If there’s a safety concern, talk to an attorney or advocate before disclosing your plans.
Prepare and file forms.
Complete Colorado’s required divorce forms and file in your county. Pay the filing fee or request a fee waiver if eligible.
Serve the other spouse.
Provide legally valid notice (service) or a signed waiver. The 91-day waiting period runs from filing/service (or joint filing). Colorado Judicial Branch
Exchange disclosures and resolve issues.
Share required financial information and work out agreements on property, parenting time, child support, and maintenance (using the advisory guideline as a starting point).
Submit agreements or prepare for hearing.
File your signed settlement documents for the judge to review, or proceed to court for any unresolved issues after the waiting period.
Finalize the divorce.
After the 91 days and court review, the judge can enter your Decree of Dissolution if all requirements are met. Colorado Judicial Branch
