If you’re considering divorce in Colorado in 2025, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Coloradans go through this life-changing legal process. Whether you’re a husband trying to protect your rights or a wife looking to secure stability, this guide gives you the facts, procedures, and emotional perspectives you need to move forward confidently.

Colorado Divorce Basics (2025)

Colorado is a “no-fault” divorce state. That means the court doesn’t care who is to blame. Instead, the only legal requirement is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”

Key Points:

• At least one spouse must live in Colorado for 91 days before filing.
• You do NOT need to prove cheating, abuse, or neglect.
• There is a mandatory 91-day waiting period after serving divorce papers before the court can finalize your case.
• Divorces are handled in District Courts across Colorado.

Resource: Colorado Judicial Branch Divorce Forms

Step-by-Step: How to File for Divorce in Colorado

Step 1: Collect Documentation

Get organized. You’ll need:

• Financial statements
• Property and debt records
• Tax returns (at least past 2 years)
• Marriage certificate

Example: Jenna, a stay-at-home mom from Boulder, created a spreadsheet of all joint accounts, her husband’s pension details, and childcare receipts to present a clear financial picture.

Step 2: File a Petition

Complete and submit the following forms:

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (JDF 1101)
• Summons (JDF 1102)
• Case Information Sheet (JDF 1000)

You’ll file them at your local district court. Filing fee is $230 (fee waivers are available).

Step 3: Serve Your Spouse

You must legally notify your spouse by:

• Personal service (sheriff or process server)
• Certified mail
• Waiver of service (if both parties agree)

Tip: If you can’t locate your spouse, ask the court for permission to serve by publication.

Step 4: Financial Disclosures

Both spouses are legally required to share financial information:

• Sworn Financial Statement (JDF 1111)
• Supporting documents (pay stubs, bank records)

Step 5: Attend the Initial Status Conference (ISC)

Usually held within 40 days after filing. The court schedules deadlines and discusses parenting plans and temporary orders.

Step 6: Mediation or Settlement

Most counties require mediation to encourage amicable settlement.

• Mediation centers often charge lower fees than private attorneys.

Example: In Denver, Ben and Alicia saved thousands by resolving custody through the Office of Dispute Resolution (ODR).

Step 7: Final Orders Hearing (if contested)

If you can’t reach an agreement, the court will decide:

• Division of property
• Spousal maintenance
• Parenting responsibilities
• Child support

Property Division in Colorado (Equitable Distribution)

Colorado divides marital assets “equitably”—not necessarily 50/50. The court considers:

• Each spouse’s contribution to marital property
• Economic circumstances
• Length of the marriage
• Non-financial contributions (e.g., homemaking)

Male Example: Mike, who supported his wife through med school, was awarded a higher share of investment accounts. Female Example: Lisa, a mother of two who left her job to care for the kids, kept the family home in Fort Collins.

Spousal Maintenance (Alimony) in 2025

Colorado courts award spousal maintenance based on income differences and contributions to the marriage.

Factors include:

• Length of marriage
• Financial need
• Earning ability
• Standard of living during marriage

Use Colorado’s spousal support calculator on the CO Judicial website

Child Custody (Now Called “Parental Responsibilities”)

Courts prioritize the best interest of the child.

Key Considerations:

• Relationship with each parent
• School, health, and emotional needs
• History of abuse or neglect

Colorado favors shared parenting, but not always 50/50.

Real Case: In a 2024 Weld County case, a father proved he was the primary caregiver, resulting in him receiving majority parenting time.

Child Support in Colorado

Colorado uses an income-shares model. Both parents’ incomes and time with the child are considered.

Additional expenses include:

• Daycare
• Health insurance
• Uncovered medical expenses

Use the Colorado Child Support Estimator

Gender-Specific Insights

For Men:

• Document your parenting involvement (school pickups, doctor visits, etc.)
• Courts no longer favor mothers by default
• Be transparent with finances—hiding assets can hurt your credibility

Tip: Ask for joint legal custody if you can demonstrate consistent parenting history.

For Women:

• Prepare for financial independence (job training, resume building)
• Document all emotional and economic abuse
• Don’t undervalue homemaking contributions—it holds legal weight

Tip: Ask the court for temporary maintenance if you left the workforce for child-rearing.

Legal Costs & Timelines

Self-Representation or Lawyer?

Colorado allows you to represent yourself. However, complex cases (business ownership, custody disputes) often benefit from legal help.

Visit Colorado Legal Services for free or low-cost assistance.

Real Stories from Colorado Courts (2024–2025)

Story 1: Eva vs. Daniel (Jefferson County)
Eva, a nurse, filed for divorce after 17 years. She asked for the marital home due to her proximity to work and the kids’ school. The court granted her primary residence and awarded Daniel extra retirement savings.

Story 2: Marcus vs. Lindsay (Adams County)
Marcus filed for joint custody and submitted proof he took his kids to appointments and PTA meetings. The judge awarded equal parenting time despite Lindsay’s objection.

Final Thoughts

Filing for divorce in Colorado in 2025 doesn’t have to be intimidating. By understanding the legal process and preparing emotionally and financially, both men and women can emerge from divorce with dignity and fairness.

Be honest. Be organized. Protect your rights—but also aim for peaceful resolution where possible.

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