If you and your spouse can agree on key issues such as property division, child custody, and support, an uncontested divorce may be the fastest and most affordable way to dissolve your marriage in Colorado. The experienced divorce attorneys at Colorado Legal Group help clients in Denver and Colorado Springs complete uncontested divorces efficiently, accurately, and with minimal conflict.
What Is an Uncontested Divorce in Colorado?
An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses reach full agreement on all major terms of the separation, including:
Once an agreement is reached, your attorney prepares and files the necessary court documents. If there are no minor children or both spouses are represented by attorneys, the divorce can often be finalized without a hearing. If only one spouse has an attorney and there are children, a brief hearing may be required before the judge issues the final decree.
Do You Need an Attorney for an Uncontested Divorce?
Working with an attorney helps you:
- Ensure compliance with Colorado’s divorce laws
- Protect your financial and parental rights
- Avoid missing deadlines or required filings
- Reduce emotional stress and confusion
- Finalize your divorce faster and with fewer complications
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incomplete Documentation: Ensure every form is filled out accurately and completely.
Overlooking Finances: Be thorough about dividing debts, assets, and retirement accounts.
Ignoring Tax Implications: Understand how asset division and support payments affect your taxes.
Failing to Plan for the Future: Include provisions for potential life changes like relocation or income shifts.
Work With an Experienced Colorado Uncontested Divorce Attorney
An uncontested divorce can be the simplest way to move forward, but success depends on getting every detail right. At Colorado Legal Group, our attorneys in Denver and Colorado Springs help clients finalize uncontested divorces with confidence. We handle the paperwork, ensure compliance with state law, and protect your rights from start to finish. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you complete your uncontested divorce quickly, affordably, and correctly.
Thinking About Filing on Your Own? Consider These Factors
Many couples in Colorado successfully complete their own uncontested divorces, but mistakes in filing or incomplete agreements can create serious problems later. Before you move forward on your own, consider the following:
Complexity of Your Divorce
- Couples with few assets or no children can often navigate the process more easily.
- If you share property, own a home, or have retirement accounts, legal representation is highly recommended.
Cooperation Between Spouses
- Uncontested divorces require communication and compromise.
- If cooperation breaks down, the case can quickly become contested.
Willingness to Manage Paperwork
- Courts provide standard forms, but each county in Colorado has specific filing rules.
- Missing information or submitting incorrect documents can delay or dismiss your case.
Unforeseen Issues
- Common problem areas include taxes, retirement accounts, custody enforcement, and debt division.
- Online divorce packets rarely address these complex issues or create enforceable terms.
Uncontested Divorce vs. Mediated Divorce
If you and your spouse agree on most issues but still need help resolving a few, mediation can be a valuable alternative.
In a mediated divorce, a neutral attorney helps both parties negotiate a final agreement that works for everyone.
Benefits of mediation include:
- Lower legal costs compared to contested cases
- Creative, customized solutions
- A quicker and less stressful process
- Professional preparation of all final documents
Benefits of an Uncontested Divorce in Colorado
- Lower Cost: Fewer court hearings and reduced attorney time make the process more affordable.
- Faster Resolution: Agreements are already in place, so the case moves through the court system quickly.
- Less Emotional Strain: Avoiding courtroom disputes helps both parties maintain peace of mind.
- Privacy: Uncontested divorces generally keep personal matters more private.
Disadvantages of an Uncontested Divorce
- Requires Full Agreement: Both parties must be cooperative and in complete agreement.
- Limited Oversight: Without attorneys, important legal protections may be missed.
- Complex Forms: Colorado’s filing process can be confusing and time-sensitive.
- Unequal Bargaining Power: One spouse may have more knowledge or leverage, leading to unfair outcomes.
Step-by-Step Guide to Filing an Uncontested Divorce in Colorado
- Reach an Agreement
Both parties must agree on all key issues such as property division, custody, and financial support. - Consult an Attorney
Even in cooperative cases, an uncontested divorce attorney in Colorado can ensure your rights are protected. - Prepare and File Documents
Your attorney prepares the divorce packet and files it with the appropriate district court, such as Denver County or El Paso County for Colorado Springs residents. - Attend a Hearing (If Required)
If children are involved and only one party has an attorney, a brief hearing may be needed before the divorce is finalized. - Receive the Decree of Dissolution
Once the court reviews and approves the paperwork, your divorce becomes official.
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Call Colorado Legal Group at 720.594.7360 or get started with a complimentary case evaluation.
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The Blueprint for a Successful Divorce
The Blueprint For a Successful Divorce
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Uncontested Divorces Take?
An uncontested divorce is beneficial for clients largely due to the speed at which a case can start and end. At least 91 days must pass from the filing of a petition and the entry of the decree of dissolution/separation. After the 91 days have passed, at any point thereafter, the parties can settle their case. A short uncontested hearing may be necessary in some cases prior to the decree entering, but this is often set quickly so parties can finish up their case.
How Do Uncontested Divorces Work?
Uncontested divorces can be done with or without lawyers. If lawyers are involved, one lawyer usually prepares documents that reflect the agreements of the parties. Some additional negotiation is often done, then the parties sign and file the documents, resulting in a final decree of divorce being issued by the court. The same process is followed in cases without attorneys, except the parties themselves, rather than the attorneys prepare the documents, which are often obtained online or from the courthouse.
How Can We Help?
Denver Office (Main):
1777 S Harrison St. #1050
Denver, CO 80210
720.594.7360
Colorado Springs Office:
102 S Tejon St. #510
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
719.715.2850
Email:
info@coloradolegalgroup.com