Going through divorce is one of the most challenging times in our life, even when the break-up is amicable. You are in the thick of it all and emotions run high. In times like this it is difficult to know what steps to take and how to best protect you. Our experienced, knowledgeable attorneys are here to help you, as much as you need or every step of the way, from the initial consultation to the final divorce degree, and beyond.
Divorce Process in Colorado
The divorce process in Colorado follows a fairly straightforward path from filing for divorce to the degree of Dissolution of Marriage. However, there are a few variables depending on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested or if the couple has children of their marriage or not. Note: The steps for Legal Separation are the same as for getting a divorce in Colorado. For additional information follow the applicable links below or view additional resources towards the bottom of this page.
Overview of the Divorce Process
Planning Your Divorce
Before actually filing documents to initiate the divorce proceedings, many engage in planning the divorce. This is often a time when you might meet with/retain an attorney and discuss your situation and what is the best course of action in your case
Filing for Divorce
The first steps in obtaining a dissolution of marriage in Colorado is to file for divorce. You can either file jointly with your spouse or by yourself. Either you or your spouse must reside in Colorado for at least 91 days preceding the filing. The filing is typically done at the county where the Respondent is residing at the time of the filing.
Completing Additional Documents
After filing the initial documents and before the Initial Status Conference you and your spouse will need to complete additional documents including a Sworn Financial Statement and make mandatory financial disclosures to each another.
Parenting After Divorce Class
If minor children are involved, both parties are required to complete a court-approved parenting class prior to the Initial Status Conference. Each parent will receive a certificate of completing from the class
Initial Status Conference
The court will schedule an Initial Status Conference, which is to be held within 45 days of the filing. In some counties you will receive a date when you file for divorce, in others you may need to call to get a date scheduled. You and your spouse will need to attend. The Initial Status Conference is either held in front of a judge or a family court facilitator, depending on the county. Some counties may hold this conference via telephone. More about Initial Status Conference>>
Temporary Orders Hearing
If Temporary Orders were not entered during the Initial Status Conference there may be a separate hearing scheduled for Temporary Orders. Not all cases have temporary orders entered prior to Permanent Orders Hearing.
Mediation
If the divorce is contested the court requires the parties to mediate before entering a final Dissolution of Marriage degree.
Permanent Orders Hearing
The Permanent Orders Hearing is the hearing held in court where the final orders are entered for the Dissolution of Marriage. The orders may include child support, parenting time, maintenance, property division etc. You will have a Degree of Dissolution of Marriage at the end of this Permanent Orders Hearing.
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The content of this page is for general informational purposes only, and should not be considered advice in your case. Every divorce, even an amicable one, has legal nuances that only an attorney can understand.