Ready to start your uncontested divorce in Colorado? Get your divorce papers today and take the first step toward a fresh start.
Get your divorce papersWhat Divorce Papers needs to be valid in Colorado
- One spouse must have lived in Colorado for at least 91 days before filing.
- You must have grounds for divorce: Colorado is a no-fault state, so you just need to state that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
- You'll need to provide information about your marriage, including the date and place of marriage.
- If you have children, you must include a parenting plan and child support information.
- Both spouses must agree on how to divide property and debts, or you'll need to go to court for a judge to decide.
- You must complete and file the required divorce forms with the district court in the county where either spouse resides.
How to set up a Divorce Papers in Colorado
- Determine if you meet Colorado's residency requirement: 91 days before filing.
- Gather the necessary information: both spouses' full names, addresses, dates of birth, marriage date and place, and details about any children.
- Obtain the divorce forms. You can find them on the Colorado Judicial Branch website or at your local district court. Key forms include the Summons for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1101), Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1102), and Case Information Sheet (JDF 1000).
- Fill out the forms completely. If you and your spouse agree on all issues, you can pursue an uncontested divorce by filing a Joint Petition (JDF 1102) and a Separation Agreement (JDF 1115).
- File the forms with the district court clerk and pay the filing fee (or apply for a fee waiver if you qualify).
- Have your spouse served with the papers (unless you file jointly). Then, wait at least 91 days from filing before the court can finalize your divorce, as Colorado has a mandatory waiting period.
How much it costs
The filing fee for divorce papers in Colorado varies by county but typically ranges from $195 to $250. If you cannot afford the fee, you can request a fee waiver by filing a Motion to Waive Fees (JDF 205). Additional costs may include fees for service of process and certified copies of your final decree.
Before You Begin: Colorado Divorce Papers
Gather these essentials and understand Colorado's rules to streamline your divorce filing. This checklist helps you avoid common delays.
- Meet the residency requirement: you or your spouse must have lived in Colorado for at least 91 days before filing.
- Have your spouse's full legal name and current address, and know their Social Security number (if available) for identification purposes.
- Decide if your divorce is uncontested; if so, you may use the simplified forms for jointly filed, uncontested cases with no minor children.
- Prepare financial documents: income, expenses, assets, debts, and any marital property agreements. Colorado requires financial disclosure in most cases.
- Get your marriage certificate (certified copy) and any existing separation or prenuptial agreements.
- Remember that Colorado does not require a notary for the initial petition, but some forms may need notarization (e.g., financial affidavits). Verify current requirements.
- File your completed forms with the district court in the county where you or your spouse resides. Check the court's specific filing rules and fees.
Questions people ask
Do I need a lawyer to file for divorce in Colorado?
No, you can represent yourself in an uncontested divorce. The Colorado court system provides self-help resources and forms, but if your case is complex or contested, consulting a lawyer may be wise.
What is the waiting period for a divorce in Colorado?
There is a mandatory 91-day waiting period from the date the divorce papers are filed until the divorce can be finalized. This applies to all divorces, even uncontested ones.
Do I need to have my divorce papers notarized?
Some forms, like the Separation Agreement and Parenting Plan, require notarization if they are signed outside the presence of a court clerk. It's best to sign them in front of a notary to be safe.
Can I file for divorce online in Colorado?
Colorado has an e-filing system for attorneys, but self-represented parties may need to file in person or by mail. Check with your local district court for their specific procedures.