5 Things to Know Before Filling for Divorce in Colorado

1. Colorado is a no-fault divorce state

You don’t need to prove wrongdoing like adultery or abandonment to file for divorce in Colorado. The only legal basis required is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” That means the court won’t consider who was “at fault” but will focus on fairly dividing property and determining parenting arrangements in accordance with your children’s best interests.

2. You or your spouse must have lived in Colorado for at least 91 days

Before you file, either you or your spouse must have been a resident of Colorado for at least 91 days. If children are involved, they generally must have lived in Colorado for at least 182 days for the court to have jurisdiction over parenting time and custody.

3. You don’t have to go to war, but you do need a plan

Many people picture divorce as a courtroom battle, but that’s not always the case. With the right strategy and mindset, it’s often possible to reach agreements without drawn-out litigation. Whether your case ends up cooperative or contested, having a plan from day one can make a huge difference in outcome and cost.

4. Financial transparency matters

Colorado requires full financial disclosure from both parties during a divorce. You’ll need to exchange documents like pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, and lists of assets and debts. Lying or withholding information can backfire and may affect how the court divides property or awards support.

5. You don’t have to do it alone

Even in straightforward cases, divorce is emotionally and legally complex. Having a family law attorney can help you avoid costly mistakes, understand your rights, and feel more in control of the process. At Stordahl Law, we guide clients through every step with clarity, honesty, and strategy.

Thinking about divorce in Colorado?

Schedule a one-on-one consultation with Stordahl Law and get the information you need to move forward with confidence.