A Faster, Lower-Cost Path Through Divorce, When You and Your Spouse Agree
An uncontested divorce in Colorado is possible when both spouses can reach agreement on property division, parenting arrangements, and support. I help you get there cleanly, with the legal precision your future requires.
What Makes a Divorce "Uncontested" in Colorado?
An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on every material issue before the court finalizes the case. That includes how marital property and debts are divided, whether spousal maintenance will be paid and for how long, parenting time and decision-making authority if children are involved, and child support calculated under Colorado's statutory guidelines.
Agreement doesn't have to mean you've already worked everything out. Many of my clients come to me with a general understanding and need a skilled attorney to translate that understanding into enforceable, court-ready documents. The agreement has to hold up, not just feel fair in the moment.
Why the Right Attorney Still Matters When You Agree
Uncontested does not mean uncomplicated. Errors in a separation agreement, a parenting plan that's too vague to follow, or a marital settlement that overlooks a retirement account or business interest can create years of conflict and costly litigation down the road.
With more than 30 years of Colorado family law experience, I've reviewed enough poorly drafted agreements to know exactly where they fall apart. My job is to make sure yours doesn't.
- Every document drafted to Colorado statutory and local rule requirements
- Parenting plans written with enough specificity to be followed without constant dispute
- Property division reviewed for hidden gaps, tax consequences, and future enforceability
- Retirement accounts and business interests addressed correctly from the start
- Child support calculated accurately under Colorado's income shares model
- Spousal maintenance reviewed against statutory factors so the agreement reflects what a court would actually approve
How the Uncontested Divorce Process Works in Colorado
Colorado requires a 91-day waiting period from the date of service before a divorce can be finalized, even when both spouses agree on everything. Here is how I guide clients through that window.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We review your situation, your assets, your parenting arrangement if applicable, and what you and your spouse have already agreed to. I identify any gaps or issues that need to be resolved before drafting begins.
Step 2: Document Preparation
I draft the separation agreement, parenting plan, child support worksheet, and all required court filings. Every document is tailored to your specific circumstances, not pulled from a generic template.
Step 3: Review and Refinement
You review the documents. If your spouse has independent counsel, they review as well. We address any questions and finalize the language before filing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uncontested Divorce in Colorado
How long does an uncontested divorce take in Colorado?
Colorado law requires a minimum 91-day waiting period from the date the respondent spouse is served or signs a waiver of service. With complete agreement and properly drafted documents, many uncontested divorces are finalized shortly after that window closes. Delays typically result from incomplete paperwork or unresolved issues that surface during the drafting process.Do both spouses need their own attorney in an uncontested divorce?
No, but I can only represent one spouse. The other spouse may choose to hire independent counsel to review the agreement, which I generally encourage. I cannot give legal advice to both parties, and an unrepresented spouse who later claims they didn't understand what they signed can create complications after the decree is entered.What is the difference between an uncontested divorce and a legal separation in Colorado?
A legal separation uses the same process and resolves the same issues as a divorce, but the marriage is not legally dissolved. Some couples choose legal separation for religious reasons, insurance purposes, or because they haven't met Colorado's 91-day residency requirement yet. Either path requires the same quality of documentation.Can we use one attorney for an uncontested divorce in Colorado?
One attorney can represent only one spouse. However, if both spouses are in genuine agreement and the unrepresented spouse understands they are not receiving legal advice, the process can move forward with a single attorney drafting the documents. I'm transparent about this limitation from the first conversation.What if we agree now but disagree later during the process?
It happens. If new issues surface during drafting or one spouse changes their position, the case may shift toward a contested posture. I'm a trained mediator in both Colorado and Illinois, so I'm well-positioned to help couples work through disagreements without immediately escalating to litigation. The goal is always to find a resolution that holds.How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Colorado?
Cost depends on the complexity of your assets, whether children are involved, and how much agreement exists at the start. Uncontested divorces are significantly less expensive than contested litigation. I offer competitive pricing relative to large-firm rates, with the added benefit that your case is handled personally by me, not delegated to a junior associate. I discuss fees directly during the initial consultation.