Colorado Springs Divorce Lawyers

Divorce can be a stressful, emotional process, but it’s often for the best if you’re not happy in your marriage. In some cases, it’s necessary for your health and safety, especially if you’re experiencing domestic violence or any type of abuse. As important as it is to leave an unhealthy marriage, it’s not a process you should take on alone. Let an experienced Colorado Springs divorce attorney help you through your case.

At Brighter Day℠ Law, our attorneys have helped clients across El Paso County for years with a wide range of family law matters. Whether you have a straightforward uncontested divorce or need help with child support, spousal support, or custody issues, our team is here to advise you. Contact our Colorado Springs law firm today for a free consultation.

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Colorado Springs Divorce Laws

Before you file for divorce, it’s essential to understand how the divorce process works in Colorado. Colorado is a no-fault divorce state, which means you do not have to prove wrongdoing to end your marriage. You only need to state that the marriage is irretrievably broken.

Because Colorado is a no-fault state, the judge won’t consider either spouse’s alleged misconduct when making decisions. Accusations of adultery or substance abuse generally won’t be the basis for decisions about spousal support, child support, property division, or parental responsibilities.

Colorado also has a 91-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. If you and your spouse agree on custody, support, property division, and other matters, your divorce can often be final shortly after that period ends. Our attorneys can help you reach an agreement if you’re hoping for a faster resolution.

Get Advice From an Experienced Divorce Lawyer in Colorado. All You Have to Do Is Call 719-733-9775 or Fill Out Our Case Evaluation Form

How Can You Begin the Divorce Process in Colorado Springs?

The divorce process begins when you file a petition for dissolution of marriage. In Colorado Springs, divorce cases are handled at the El Paso County Combined Courts. Your spouse will be served with the paperwork. After they respond, you’ll each need to give the court financial disclosures for the judge to review.

Even if you agree on spousal support, child support, and property division, the court must review your financial information to make sure your agreement is fair to both parties.

The judge may issue temporary orders on parenting time, financial support, and other issues that can’t wait until the divorce is final. Discovery may also begin during this stage. Each side’s attorney can request information about assets, debts, income, and other facts that affect property division and parenting decisions.

Expect court hearings and settlement negotiations in the months after you file. The process takes six to twelve months on average, but it can take longer if you and your spouse can’t reach an agreement. Throughout your case, your attorney will keep you informed of deadlines, meetings, and paperwork so nothing falls through the cracks.

What Is the Difference Between Divorce and Legal Separation in Colorado?

If you’re ready to take a break from your spouse but aren’t sure you’re ready for divorce, legal separation may be an option. Like divorce, it allows you to live separate lives with court orders for property, support, and parenting. Unlike divorce, you remain legally married.

Why Some Couples Choose Legal Separation Over Divorce

There are several reasons couples choose legal separation over divorce. Often, the decision comes down to finances. Some couples can’t afford to divorce right away but still want to live separately and need the court’s help dividing property and deciding custody and support. Others want to stay married so they can keep sharing health insurance and other benefits.

Some couples separate because their religious or moral values discourage divorce. Others use separation as a trial period to make sure they’re ready for that step.

Legal separation also has drawbacks. For example, if you want to remarry, you’ll need to get divorced first, because you’re still married under Colorado law. If you separate and later decide to end the marriage, you can convert your legal separation into a divorce six months after your decree of legal separation is entered.

If you’re unsure which option is right for you, talk to one of our attorneys. We can explain how each choice affects your finances, your children, and your future.

How Is Property Divided in a High-Asset Divorce?

Colorado divides marital property equitably, meaning fairly, which doesn’t always mean equally. When significant assets are involved, the stakes are higher and so is the complexity. High-asset divorces often involve:

• Business interests and professional practices
• Retirement accounts, pensions, and military retirement benefits
• Real estate, including rental and investment properties
• Stock options, investment portfolios, and deferred compensation
• Separate property that increased in value during the marriage

These cases often call for business valuations, financial experts, and careful tracing of separate and marital funds. Our attorneys work to make sure your assets are fully identified, properly valued, and fairly divided.

How Can Colorado Springs Divorce Attorneys Help You?

Before you start divorce proceedings, you should talk with a Colorado divorce lawyer. At Brighter Day℠ Law, you’ll work with a team known for being caring and knowledgeable, even in the most complex divorces.

If you have an uncontested divorce and questions about spousal maintenance, parental responsibilities, or other issues, we can give you the answers you need to move forward quickly. If your divorce is contested, you’ll want a trusted advocate by your side for court filings, hearings, mediation, and every step in between.

Our attorneys have handled complex family law cases, including protection orders in cases involving domestic violence and complicated military divorce cases for service members and spouses at Fort Carson, Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, and the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Colorado Springs Divorce FAQs

How long does a divorce take in Colorado Springs?

Colorado requires a 91-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. Uncontested divorces are often completed soon after that period ends. Contested divorces typically take six to twelve months, and sometimes longer if the case goes to trial.

Do I have to prove my spouse did something wrong to get divorced?

No. Colorado is a no-fault state. You only need to state that the marriage is irretrievably broken.

How much does a divorce lawyer cost in Colorado Springs?

Cost depends on how complex your case is and whether you and your spouse agree on the major issues. Uncontested divorces generally cost far less than contested ones. We offer a free consultation so you can understand your options before committing.

Will I have to go to court?

Not always. In some uncontested cases, the divorce can be finalized without a contested hearing. If you and your spouse disagree on property, support, or parenting, you’ll likely attend mediation and possibly court hearings.

Can I get a divorce if my spouse doesn’t want one?

Yes. Your spouse can’t stop the divorce by refusing to agree. If one spouse states that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the court can grant the divorce.

Contact Our Colorado Springs Divorce Lawyers to Help You Through the Process

Whether your divorce is simple or complex, you deserve guidance from attorneys who understand Colorado family law and genuinely care about your outcome. From uncontested divorces to high-asset and military cases, Brighter Day℠ Law is here to help you move forward with confidence. Call our family law firm at (719) 733-9775 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.