CO

How to File for Divorce in Colorado Without a Lawyer

Complete step-by-step guide to filing for divorce in Colorado without an attorney. Save thousands in legal fees.

Overview: Filing for Divorce in Colorado Without a Lawyer

Colorado requires only 90 days residency and has a 91-day waiting period. The state uses equitable distribution and no-fault grounds only. DIY divorce is very feasible for uncontested cases.

Can You File Without a Lawyer in Colorado?

✓ Good Candidates for DIY Divorce:

  • Both agree marriage irretrievably broken
  • Agreement on all terms
  • No contested issues
  • Limited assets
  • Both cooperate

⚠ Consider Hiring a Lawyer If:

  • Custody disputes
  • Complex property
  • Retirement accounts
  • Business ownership
  • Spouse contests

Find Colorado Divorce Lawyers →

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

Step 1

Meet 90-Day Residency

One spouse must have lived in Colorado for 90 days.

⏱ Estimated Time: N/A
💡 Tips:
  • CO driver's license
  • Utility bills
Step 2

File Petition

File Petition for Dissolution with district court.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Filing fee: $230-280
  • E-filing available
Step 3

Serve Spouse

Serve petition via process server.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-2 weeks
💡 Tips:
  • Cannot serve yourself
  • Spouse can waive
Step 4

Complete Sworn Financial Statement

Both complete and exchange financial statements.

⏱ Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Mandatory disclosure
  • Must be accurate
Step 5

Wait 91 Days

Colorado requires 91-day waiting period from service.

⏱ Estimated Time: 91 days
💡 Tips:
  • Cannot finalize earlier
  • Use time for settlement
Step 6

Submit Separation Agreement

File agreed settlement addressing all issues.

⏱ Estimated Time: 4-6 hours
💡 Tips:
  • Must divide property equitably
  • Include parenting plan
Step 7

Finalize Decree

Submit decree and attend hearing if required.

⏱ Estimated Time: Varies
💡 Tips:
  • Some cases don't need hearing
  • Judge reviews settlement
Step 8

Receive Final Decree

Court issues Decree of Dissolution.

⏱ Estimated Time: 1-3 weeks
💡 Tips:
  • Effective immediately

Required Forms for Colorado Divorce

Petition for Dissolution (JDF 1101)

Required

Sworn Financial Statement (JDF 1111)

Required

Separation Agreement (JDF 1115)

Required

Note: Always use the most current forms from your state's court website. Forms may be updated periodically.

Cost Breakdown for Colorado DIY Divorce

💰 DIY Divorce

$280-380
  • Filing fee: $230-280
  • Service fee: $50-100
  • Misc costs: $25-$100

👔 With Attorney

$3,500-20,000

Includes attorney fees, court costs, and filing fees for uncontested to contested cases

For detailed cost breakdown including attorney fees and scenarios: View Colorado Divorce Costs →

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1

Trying to finalize before 91 days

2

Incomplete financial statement

3

Not addressing debt division

Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado DIY Divorce

Can I file for divorce without a lawyer in Colorado?

Yes, Colorado provides free forms and instructions. Many counties have self-help centers offering assistance with paperwork.

How long is the waiting period in Colorado?

Colorado requires 91 days from the date your spouse is served before the divorce can be finalized.

Need Professional Help?

While DIY divorce can save money in Colorado, consulting with an attorney can help you understand your rights and avoid costly mistakes.

Find Colorado Divorce Lawyers Questions to Ask a Lawyer