Divorce is rarely a quick and straightforward process. It’s often confusing, overwhelming, and emotionally draining for both parties. If you’re thinking about initiating divorce proceedings, especially if you know there will be disagreements ahead, it’s in the best interest of both parties to speak with Denver divorce lawyers.
Working with experienced legal professionals can make a tricky process a bit smoother, as divorce attorneys are skilled in helping each party find common ground.
To help you become familiar with the divorce process, read this short guide to divorce laws in Colorado.
Divorce Grounds in Colorado
According to divorce laws in Colorado, a couple must meet the following requirements in order to file for divorce.
- One of the involved parties must have resided in Colorado for at least 91 days before filing the divorce petition unless the divorcing couple has minor children. In that case, family law in Colorado states that the children must have resided in Colorado for at least 181 days before the divorce is filed.
- Ninety-one days must also pass since the time the divorce summons was served to the other party involved.
- Colorado is a “no-fault” state, and parties simply need to be unable to overcome their differences to seek a divorce.
The Filing Process
Filing for divorce involves a few steps, which may differ somewhat from case to case. To begin proceedings according to divorce laws in Denver, the petition must be filed after meeting the above-mentioned requirements. Once filed, the non-filing spouse must be served with a copy of the petition, and from there, they have 21 days to respond, or 35 days if the non-filing party is out-of-state.
If both parties agree to the terms in the divorce petition, this is an uncontested divorce, which is usually quicker and more affordable than a contested divorce.
Additionally, if the non-filing spouse does not respond, the divorce is usually granted by default.
When parties don’t agree to the divorce terms, it is usually best to consult a divorce attorney in Denver to help the parties reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Additional Orders During Divorce
Some divorce cases are more straightforward than others, so in many cases, additional orders accompany a divorce depending on the circumstances surrounding the parties involved. For example:
- Property: If the divorcing couple owns property together, the divorce will address the division of that property.
- Debt: If the divorcing couple has any remaining debts, those debts will be allocated fairly.
- Children: If the divorcing couple has minor children, family law in Denver comes into consideration. The divorce proceedings will determine child custody, support orders, and parenting requirements.
- Alimony: If one party was financially dependent on the other, alimony or spousal support may be ordered.
Being involved in a court case is rarely a pleasant experience, and when the case consists of the dissolution of a marriage, there is a lot of room for disagreements and setbacks. If you and your spouse are planning to file for divorce, we encourage you to contact COLaw at (970) 670-0738. Our accomplished divorce lawyers in Colorado will do everything in our power to help you finalize your divorce as smoothly as possible.
