DIY Divorce Colorado

How to Complete a Divorce by Yourself in Colorado

Filing for divorce in Colorado without hiring an attorney, also called “pro se” representation, is a cost-effective and empowering option. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, key resources, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you complete the process successfully.

Steps to Complete a Divorce by Yourself in Colorado

  1. Check Residency Requirements and Grounds for Divorce

    • At least one spouse must have lived in Colorado for 91 days before filing.
    • Colorado is a no-fault divorce state, requiring only that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”
    • Read more on the Colorado Divorce Overview.

  2. Download and Complete the Necessary Forms

  3. File Your Forms with the District Court

    • Submit your completed forms at the district court in your county of residence.
    • The filing fee is $230. If you cannot afford it, submit a Motion to File Without Payment (JDF 205).
    • The court will assign your case a number and return stamped copies.

  4. Serve Your Spouse

    • Service of process ensures your spouse is officially notified of the divorce.
    • Acceptable methods include:
      • Personal service by a neutral adult over 18.
      • Certified mail with a return receipt.
      • Service by publication, with court approval, if your spouse cannot be located.
    • Refer to the Colorado Guidelines for Serving Divorce Papers for more information.

  5. Exchange Financial Disclosures

    • Colorado law requires full financial transparency during a divorce.
    • Complete these forms:

  6. Attend the Initial Status Conference (ISC)

    • The ISC is a mandatory meeting to review case progress and scheduling.
    • This conference takes place within 42 days of filing.

  7. Resolve Issues or Finalize an Agreement

    • Uncontested divorces can proceed with a signed agreement.
    • Contested issues require mediation or a court hearing.

  8. Submit Final Documents

County Court Filing Locations in Colorado

For a complete list of Colorado courts, visit the Colorado Court Locator. Below are major county court locations:

1st Judicial District (Jefferson & Gilpin Counties)

100 Jefferson County Parkway
Golden, CO 80419
Phone: (303) 271-6100
Visit Court Website

2nd Judicial District (Denver County)

1437 Bannock Street
Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (720) 865-8301
Visit Court Website

3rd Judicial District (Huerfano & Las Animas Counties)

401 Main Street
Walsenburg, CO 81089
Phone: (719) 738-1040
Visit Court Website

4th Judicial District (El Paso & Teller Counties)

270 S. Tejon Street
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Phone: (719) 452-5000
Visit Court Website

Additional Topics Related to Divorce

1. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Improper Service: Incorrectly serving divorce papers can lead to delays. Refer to the Service Instructions Guide.

Incomplete Forms: Failing to fill out forms correctly is one of the most common errors. Double-check every detail and use the resources on the Colorado Self-Help Page.

2. Understanding Property Division

Colorado follows an equitable distribution model, dividing marital property fairly but not necessarily equally. For information about property classification, visit Colorado Property Division Guidelines.

3. Navigating Child Custody and Support

Colorado uses the term “parental responsibilities” instead of custody, including decision-making and parenting time. Child support is calculated using the Colorado Child Support Calculator.

4. How to Handle Spousal Support (Alimony)

Spousal support provides financial assistance to the lower-earning spouse. Colorado courts consider factors such as the marriage duration and both parties’ financial needs. Learn more here.

5. Managing Emotional and Psychological Challenges

Divorce is emotionally taxing. Seek therapy or join a support group. Practice self-care and lean on friends and family for support.

6. Checklist for Divorce Preparation

  • Gather financial documents: tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements.
  • Prepare a list of marital assets and debts.
  • Consider creating a post-divorce budget to plan your finances.

7. Contested vs. Uncontested Divorces

Uncontested Divorce: Both spouses agree on all terms, making the process faster and less expensive.
Contested Divorce: Disputes over issues like custody or property require mediation or court resolution.

8. Alternatives to Divorce

  • Legal separation allows spouses to live apart without formally ending the marriage.
  • Annulments are possible under limited circumstances, such as fraud or incapacity.

9. Post-Divorce Actions

After your divorce is finalized, update your legal documents, such as wills, powers of attorney, and insurance beneficiaries. Establish separate financial accounts and maintain a record of support payments and custody agreements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How long does a divorce take in Colorado?
A: The minimum timeframe is 91 days from the time your spouse is served.

Q2: What is the filing fee?
A: The fee is $230. You can request a waiver if you qualify.

Q3: Can I modify custody or support agreements after the divorce?
A: Yes, modifications are possible if circumstances change significantly.

Q4: Is mediation required?
A: Mediation is often required for contested cases before proceeding to court.

Q5: Can I file for divorce online in Colorado?
A: Online filing is available for some counties through the Colorado Courts E-Filing System.

Q6: How is property divided?
A: Colorado uses equitable distribution, meaning assets are divided fairly based on various factors.

Q7: What if my spouse doesn’t respond to the divorce filing?
A: You can request a default judgment if your spouse fails to respond within 21 days.

Q8: Do I need a lawyer to file for divorce?
A: While not required, legal advice is helpful for complex cases.

Q9: How is child custody decided?
A: Custody decisions are based on the child’s best interests, including safety and parental involvement.

Q10: What happens if we reconcile after filing for divorce?
A: You can file a motion to dismiss the case if both parties agree.