Divorce in Colorado: Timeline, Costs, and What to Expect
Colorado is a no-fault divorce state: you do not need to prove wrongdoing to end a marriage. That makes the process more predictable, but the timeline, costs, and decisions still depend heavily on whether you and your spouse can agree.
Residency and the waiting period
To file for divorce in Colorado, you or your spouse must have lived in the state for at least 91 days before filing. After the divorce papers are served, a mandatory 91-day waiting period runs before the court can finalize the dissolution — even if you agree on everything. Plan for at least three months from start to finish in the simplest cases.
Uncontested vs. contested divorce
An uncontested divorce, where both spouses agree on property, parenting, and support, can be finalized in a few months with minimal court involvement. A contested divorce, with disputes over children, property, or maintenance, can stretch a year or more and involve mediation, hearings, and possibly trial.
What it costs
The filing fee for a dissolution of marriage in Colorado is roughly $230, set by the courts. A self-represented, uncontested divorce may cost only the filing fee plus service costs. Attorney representation for a contested divorce commonly runs into the tens of thousands of dollars — costs that are often higher when custody is disputed.
Parenting plans
Colorado requires divorcing parents to submit a parenting plan covering decision-making authority and parenting time. Courts decide based on the child's best interests, and shared parenting arrangements are common. A well-drafted plan reduces conflict — and legal fees — down the road.
Property and debt division
Colorado divides marital property equitably — fairly, not necessarily equally — considering each spouse's contributions and circumstances. Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally marital property, while property owned before marriage or received by gift or inheritance is usually separate property kept by its owner.
Spousal maintenance
Maintenance, sometimes called alimony, depends on the length of the marriage, the standard of living, each spouse's income and earning capacity, and other factors. Colorado provides advisory guidelines for temporary maintenance in many cases, which can give you a realistic sense of the range early on.
How a family lawyer helps
A Denver family law attorney makes sure the paperwork is filed correctly, protects your interests in the parenting plan and property division, and can negotiate on your behalf — or litigate when needed. Even a few hours of consultation before you file can prevent costly mistakes.
General information, not legal advice
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws, fees, deadlines, and dollar limits change — and every situation is different. Consult a licensed Colorado attorney for advice about your specific case.