Divorce

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Divorce is a significant life transition, often accompanied by emotional and legal complexities. Whether you’re initiating the process or responding to a spouse’s filing, having a knowledgeable divorce lawyer near you can make all the difference. At Divorce Matters®, we specialize in guiding individuals through the intricacies of divorce with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to achieving favorable outcomes.

Colorado operates under an “equitable distribution” model, meaning marital assets and debts are divided fairly, though not always equally. As a no-fault divorce state, the reasons for the dissolution aren’t typically examined, focusing instead on the equitable division of assets, child custody arrangements, and support obligations. Navigating these aspects requires the expertise of a seasoned divorce lawyer near you who understands Colorado’s legal landscape.

A Successful Divorce Begins with the Right Team

With decades of experience and dedicated customer service, Divorce Matters® has become a leader in Colorado’s family law sector. Our team consists of experienced family law attorneys and support staff, all committed to upholding our core values: integrity, tenacity, compassion, and excellence.

We don’t just work in Colorado – we live here. We understand local judges, opposing counsel, and how to navigate the specific courts in your area. Our local experience gives your case a real advantage. Serving clients from offices in Denver, Fort Collins, and Colorado Springs, you will easily find a qualified divorce lawyer near you to assist you in your case.

Divorce Matters team

Our Comprehensive Divorce Services

No matter what your situation is, Divorce Matters® will pair you with the right attorney to get the best outcome in your case. Our expertise extends beyond divorce – we have a history of helping clients through a variety of complex cases and unique situations. Our divorce services areas include:

Divorce Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

If you’re considering divorce, you likely have questions, fears, and uncertainty about what lies ahead. At Divorce Matters®, we understand how overwhelming this process can feel – and we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. We provide financing options so you can focus on your future and move on without the financial hardship. Hiring a skilled divorce lawyer near you can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your rights, your assets, and your peace of mind.

The Divorce Matters® Approach

Not all attorneys are created equal, and not all family law firms are equipped to handle the legal intricacies that come with divorce. It is critical to work with someone who has the knowledge required, but also the emotional capacity to be there for you during this difficult time. When it comes to choosing a divorce lawyer near you, Divorce Matters® has the one you need.

Our attorneys are laser-focused on divorce and custody law. Each member of our team is well-versed in divorce and family law case management, court filings, mediation strategies, and trial preparation, giving you the best chance at a successful resolution. Not only is your attorney knowledgeable in these areas, you’ll also have a support team of paralegals, client care specialists, and legal assistants behind you to ensure your case moves forward without unnecessary delays.

At Divorce Matters®, we believe in a client-centered approach. From your initial consultation, you’ll be paired with a lawyer who aligns with your needs and communication style. Our dedicated intake team ensures a seamless onboarding process, while our attorneys maintain open lines of communication, keeping you informed and empowered throughout your case. We use seamless case management practices and workflows to make your divorce as smooth as possible. Most importantly, we listen to your situation and develop a custom strategy tailored to your needs in order to get the most favorable outcome.

Which Divorce Option Is Right for You?

At Divorce Matters®, we believe your divorce strategy should align with your goals, your family dynamics, and your financial circumstances. That’s why it’s essential to work with a lawyer who is experienced in all forms of divorce, not just litigation. Our attorneys are experienced in every type of divorce – from common law to uncontested to mediated. We take the time to understand your situation and recommend the best path forward, whether it’s a low-conflict settlement or a more aggressive courtroom strategy. No matter what, we will make the process as civil as possible to alleviate the tension within your entire family – especially when children are involved. We put family first and are equipped to help you decide the best course of action for your children in your divorce.

Couple getting legal counsel from a Colorado divorce specialist

Schedule a Consultation

Whether you’re dealing with child custody concerns, complex asset division, spousal maintenance, or simply want to separate amicably, we’re here to help you achieve the best possible outcome – without unnecessary drama or legal gamesmanship.

Embarking on the divorce process is a significant step, and having the right legal partner is crucial. If you’re ready to take the first step, we’re ready to stand by your side. Contact Divorce Matters® today to schedule a confidential consultation with a divorce lawyer near you. We’ll answer your questions, help you understand your rights, and build a strategy that puts your future first – just like we did for thousands of Coloradans.

Contact Divorce Matters® today to schedule a consultation with a divorce lawyer near you. Our team is ready to provide the guidance, support, and advocacy you need to navigate this challenging time with confidence.

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Divorce Matters® has the experience and resources needed to handle any and all of your family and divorce law issues – learn more by booking a consultation today.
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A Guide to Understanding a Colorado Restraining Order

A Comprehensive Guide to Restraining Orders, Protection Orders, and Emergency Motions in Colorado Divorce Cases

Introduction

Navigating the legal complexities of divorce can be challenging, especially when it involves issues of safety and protection. In Colorado, spouses going through a divorce may need to consider legal measures like restraining orders, protection orders, or emergency motions to ensure their well-being. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key aspects of a Colorado restraining order and emergency orders and how they pertain to Colorado divorce law.

What is a Restraining Order?

A restraining order is a court-issued directive that restricts contact between two parties. In a divorce context, a restraining order can prevent one spouse from harassing, threatening, or harming the other spouse or their children, providing legal boundaries that prevent the other party from engaging in abusive, threatening, or harmful behavior. These orders can also prohibit unwanted communication, stalking, or any form of intimidation, creating a secure environment for the affected party during an already stressful time.

A Colorado restraining order may be granted upon demonstrating a credible threat to the safety or well-being of the requesting party. Evidence such as police reports, witness testimony, photographs, or threatening messages may be presented to support the request. There are two primary types of restraining orders in Colorado: temporary restraining orders (TROs), which are issued quickly in urgent situations, and permanent restraining orders, which are granted after a court hearing.

Violating a restraining order can result in significant legal consequences, including fines, jail time, or additional restrictions. Seeking legal assistance when filing for a Colorado restraining order can help ensure the process is handled correctly and all necessary evidence is presented. A restraining order is not just a legal tool but a critical step toward safeguarding personal security and peace of mind during the complexities of a divorce.

Understanding Protection Orders

Protection orders, also known as civil protection orders, serve a similar purpose to restraining orders but can be broader in scope. These orders can include provisions for temporary child custody, financial support, or the surrender of firearms. These orders aim to ensure the safety and security of individuals who have been subjected to abuse, harassment, or threatening behavior. Beyond restricting contact, protection orders can include provisions such as temporary child custody arrangements, financial support obligations, or the surrender of firearms to law enforcement to mitigate risks of violence.

To secure a protection order in Colorado, the requesting party must present evidence demonstrating a credible threat, such as physical abuse, stalking, harassment, or a sustained pattern of intimidation. Evidence can include photographs, medical records, police reports, text messages, or testimony from witnesses. Once a temporary protection order is granted, a follow-up court hearing is typically scheduled to determine whether the order should be extended or made permanent.

Protection orders are enforceable by law, and violations carry serious legal consequences similar to restraining order violations, including fines, jail time, or additional restrictions. With the help of an experienced attorney, you can ensure that all necessary evidence is submitted, the order is properly filed, and the process is as smooth as possible. For individuals facing unsafe circumstances, protection orders are a critical tool for maintaining stability and safeguarding personal well-being.

Emergency Motions in Colorado Divorce Cases

In certain circumstances, urgent action may be necessary to prevent immediate harm or significant property loss during a divorce. Emergency motions can be filed with the court to expedite the legal process and provide temporary relief until a formal hearing can be held. Examples of emergency motions include requests for temporary restraining orders, child custody modifications, or asset freezes. Colorado courts will grant emergency motions when the situation poses a substantial risk of harm or irreparable damage.

Colorado courts evaluate emergency motions based on the evidence provided, requiring clear and compelling proof that the situation poses a substantial risk of harm, irreparable damage, or imminent danger. This may include affidavits, witness statements, or other supporting documentation. The court typically responds quickly to such motions, given their time-sensitive nature, and may issue temporary orders to address the immediate concern.

Legal guidance will help when filing an emergency motion, as experienced attorneys can help craft a strong case, ensuring compliance with procedural requirements and maximizing the chances of a favorable outcome. Emergency motions can be an essential tool for safeguarding your rights and well-being during the divorce process.

The Importance of Legal Guidance

Navigating the complexities of restraining orders, protection orders, and emergency motions in Colorado can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with the emotional strain of a divorce. It is crucial to consult with an experienced Colorado family law attorney to ensure your rights are protected, and appropriate legal measures are taken. With the right guidance and support, these legal tools can help create a safer and more stable environment during a challenging time.

At Divorce Matters®, we specialize in handling sensitive family law issues with precision, care, and professionalism. Our team understands the urgency and intricacies of securing a Colorado restraining order and is dedicated to advocating for your safety and well-being. With years of experience navigating Colorado’s legal system, we have the expertise to present compelling evidence, file timely motions, and ensure that every aspect of your case is handled with the utmost attention to detail.

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances of Colorado restraining orders, protection orders, and emergency motions is essential for individuals going through a divorce in Colorado. These legal measures can provide protection, stability, and peace of mind during an otherwise turbulent period. By consulting with an experienced family law attorney, you can ensure that your rights are safeguarded and that you receive the support needed to navigate the divorce process successfully.

Choosing Divorce Matters® means gaining a trusted partner who prioritizes your security and peace of mind. We are committed to offering personalized strategies tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring that you feel supported every step of the way. Whether you’re facing harassment, threats, or other concerning behavior, our team is here to provide the legal protection you need during this difficult time. When your safety and future are on the line, Divorce Matters® is the best choice for navigating these challenges with confidence and clarity. Call us or fill out our form for your free consultation with one of our experienced divorce attorneys.

How Do I Deal with a Vindictive Ex?

Going through a divorce is hard enough as it is, but when your spouse becomes vindictive, the process automatically becomes ten times harder. Vindictiveness can include all kinds of things, like removing your name from bank accounts, alienating the kids, making unfounded accusations, and even making unnecessary request of the court just to make your life a little harder. It can be hard to know the best way to deal with your vindictive ex, but in the end it’s pretty simple.

The Best Reaction is No Reaction

It can be hard not to react when it feels like your ex is trying to knock you down, but it truly is the best reaction in this scenario for a couple of reasons. You’ll save your own emotional energy if you aren’t arguing and fighting over everything your ex does and, if kids are involved, it will stop the kids from seeing the fighting.

Reduce Direct Interaction

Try to interact with your ex as little as possible. Once attorneys are involved, this should be pretty easy, as all communication can go through attorneys. If your ex continues to seek out direct interaction, you can always speak to your attorney about getting a protection order for your safety.

Record Interactions

With direct interaction limited, most communication will likely be digitally. Be sure to save those messages and emails, just in case they might prove useful in court.

Set Boundaries

This is the most important part! Your mental health can take a turn for the worse when dealing with a divorce, a vindictive ex, and every day life. Make sure to set boundaries on what you are and are not willing to do and deal with as you continue through the divorce process. Try not to compromise your own boundaries and don’t be afraid to speak to a therapist to help you out!

Dealing with a vindictive ex is incredibly time consuming and emotional! Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Your attorney and the rest of your “divorce team” will be your saving grace!

Can Cheating Affect My Divorce?

Adultery (known as cheating, in more modern terms) is a word you often hear connected to divorce. But what does cheating really mean for your Colorado divorce case? Can it hurt you while you are divorcing?

No Fault Divorce

Colorado is a no fault divorce state, meaning that couples seeking a divorce don’t have to show a reason for their divorce. In Colorado, a divorcing couple simply has to state that their marriage is “irretrievably broken”. Because of this, Colorado law specifically notes that adultery is not a legally recognized reason for divorce.

On the other side of the coin, in states that do require grounds for divorce, adultery is considered a legitimate reason to get divorced. In some states, adultery can even affect the amount of alimony given out, especially if the spouse requesting the alimony is the one who committed adultery.

Can Adultery Affect Alimony?

The short answer is no. A judge in Colorado will consider a laundry list of factors when deciding on how much alimony is appropriate, including:

the financial resources of each spouse

the couple’s lifestyle and spending habits during marriage

the education, employability, and earning capacity of each spouse

the marriage length

the age and heath of each spouse, including any special healthcare needs

non-monetary contributions to the marriage, like child care

any other factors that are relevant

Notice that this list does not include adultery. That is because Colorado judges actually cannot consider adultery, or ay other misconduct, when making alimony decisions.

Can Adultery Affect Child Custody

As with alimony, adultery will not affect the court’s child custody decision. The child’s best interests are the most important thing to take into consideration, not the parents’ fidelity.

If you would like to schedule and initial consultation and discuss the effects of adultery with one of our highly experienced divorce attorneys, visit our website!

How Should I Communicate With My Ex During Our Divorce?

When you’re in the midst of a divorce, whether its contentious or not, it can be difficult to know how to communicate with your former significant other, especially if there are children involved! However, communication doesn’t have to be difficult! With a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll have a better idea of how to effectively communicate during your divorce.

Avoid Communicating When You’re Upset

There are likely going to issues that arise when going through a divorce, or even as you continue to coparent your children. While it is always advantageous to discuss your true feelings, sometimes it’s worth waiting a little while. Before you make a phone call or press send on an angry text, take a few hours to process and digest and come back to it. It will help make your communication with your ex calmer and will likely help you with clearly articulating your feelings!

You Don’t Need to Response to Every Message

Sometimes it is okay not to reply. If your ex is trying to pull you into trivial issues and arguments, ignore them! Only communicate when necessary and about topics that relate to current issues, like your divorce or your children.

Set Boundaries

Following in the footsteps of not answering every single message, know that it is okay and encourages to set boundaries on your communication with your former spouse. While it isn’t wise to ignore them completely, feel free to set boundaries on times you are willing to talk, how you are willing to talk, and what you are willing to talk about. For example, you may say you’re only willing to communicate via email or text on weekdays and only about divorce-related topics. Setting these boundaries will allow you to feel refreshed and reset when you do come back to the conversation, as well as allowing for privacy.

Avoid Social Media

Try to avoid posting on social media about your divorce, your former relationship, or you new relationship. While it may be tempting to share, it will help avoid an emotional reaction from your spouse and keep your social media posts out of the court room as evidence.

Concentrate on Present Issues

When discussing any issues with your ex, try to stay on topic. It will help to avoid conflict if you avoid hashing out issues that have already been solved, either by you or by the court.

Make Sure You Are Heard

It is important to ensure that communication between you and your ex is clear and concise. It can be helpful to ask out loud and say “Can you tell me what you hear me saying? I want to make sure I am communicating correctly”. The same can go for making sure that they are heard. Restate what you are hearing so that they know they are communicating correctly.

Take a Break

If your conversation isn’t going anywhere, take a break and come back to it another time. It can be helpful to come back to a conversation after a night or rest or cooling down a bit. This doesn’t mean that you can hang up whenever you feel like it, but rather that you have the ability to take an intentional pause and come back to the situation when the time is right for both of you.

Overall, it is important to remain respectful and act responsibly. You don’t want to add any additional stress to the divorce or coparenting process. Bad communication skills can even add to conflict and prolong the divorce process! When all else fails, know that you can always keep contact to a minimum by only speaking through your attorneys. In this case, and in any case, be sure to save as much of your communication as possible, in case you need it in the future!

If you’d like to discuss this issue, or any other, with one of our season divorce attorneys, contact us today!

Essential Books for Anyone Going Through a Divorce

Going through a divorce is incredibly difficult and emotional. Luckily, lots of others have gone through the divorce process over time. Previously divorced people, as well as others like therapists and self-help gurus, help us set a blueprint as we go forward. Divorce Matters has pulled together a list of the essential books written by these divorce experts to read during your divorce, including self-help books, relationship books, divorce specific books, books for single parents, and even books to help your kids through the process!

Self Help

Wherever You Go There You Are

Self help book with meditation that focuses on unlocking the calming powers of the mind.

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone

A Therapist, Her Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed: A book about a therapist and her own journey through therapy as she deals with crisis in her own life.

Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends on It

A former CEO writes about finding happiness and saving himself through self-love after his company failed.

The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity

Julia Cameron guides her readers through a journey to find deeper connection to process and purpose through creativity.

Untamed

In this NYT bestseller, Glennon Doyle digs into how she abandoned what the world wanted for her and started living for herself through her tail of divorce and a new blended family!

You Might Die Tomorrow So Live Today

“Forget the idea that death is morbid and start using it as your greatest source of motivation”

Activate Your Joy

This book is a self-help guide to implement 12 missions to design a vision for your life.

Tiny Beautiful Things

An anonymous online columnist, now revealed as Cheryl Strayed, is the person thousands turn to for advice. She groups her advice together into the novel Tiny Beautiful Things

The Gifts of Imperfection

Best selling author Brene Brown writes this book as an “invitation to join a wholehearted revolution. A small, quiet, grassroots movement that starts with each of us saying, ‘My story matters because I matter.’ Revolution might sound a little dramatic, but in this world, choosing authenticity and worthiness is an absolute act of resistance.”

Relationships

All About Love: New Visions

bell hooks offers a new prospective on a society without care, compassion, and unity. She uses this novel to explore the concept of love and what it truly is.

The Road Less Traveled

Helps to explore the nature of loving relationships and leads us to a better life.

Divorce

Getting Past Your Breakup

A proven plan for overcoming the end of. romantic relationship, including strategies for healing, confidence building, and finding true love.

You Can Heal Your Heart: Finding Peace After a Breakup

This book marks a collaboration between self-help expert Louise Hay and grief and loss expert David Kessler.  The to come together to discuss the emotions you feel after a breakup and how to begin to move on. 

Mom’s House, Dad’s House: Making Two Homes for Your Child

Therapist, family expert, and mediator Isolina Ricci presents a guide to shared custody for parents and their children.

Something Gained: 7 Shifts to Be Stronger, Smarter, and Happier After Divorce

A roadmap for how to transform the trauma of divorce into a positive and life changing experience.

Conscious Uncoupling: 5 Steps to Living Happily Even After

Katherine Woodward Thomas pens this novel as a way to help others understand her groundbreaking “conscious uncoupling” method through five steps.

The Journey from Abandonment to Healing

Susan Anderson applies the five stages of grief to an entirely separate kind of grief: grieving a relationship.

The New Rules of Divorce

Jacqueline Newman’s book will help you decide whether you’re really ready for divorce, protecting your finances, find the right attorney, and heal and stay sane in the craziest time of your life.

Single Parents

The Kickass Single Mom

Emma Johnson’s novel comes from a wealth of experience, which she gained by start the weathlysinglemommy.com blog after her own divorce left her pregnant, broke, and a single mother to a toddler.

Who Will Hold Me? A Single Mother’s Memoir of Self-Love, Empowerment, and Freedom

A memoir that shows that a loving life is within reach, no matter your scenario.

But Dad!: A Survival Guide for Single Fathers of Tween and Teen Girls

The perfect book for dads who suddenly find themselves as the single fathers of growing girls

A Complete Guide for Single Dads: Everything You Need to Know About Raising Healthy, Happy Children On Your Own

A perfect guide for single dads raising children!

Kids

Kids

Two Homes

Dinosaurs Divorce

My Family’s Changing 

When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends

What in the World Do You Do When Your Parents Divorce? A Survival Guide for Kids

The Huge Bag of Worries

Cool! 

Can I Get Divorced If I Recently Became a U.S. Citizen?

The citizenship process is incredibly daunting. When you add the complication of divorce to that, it can become flat-out overwhelming. Our goal here is to make sure that you know the facts about what can and cannot happen to you. Having all of the information is helpful in settling some of the anxiety that comes from dealing with the legal system, in both divorce and citizenship cases.

Is there any difference in the divorce proceedings if I have recently become a U.S. citizen?

The short answer is no! The proceedings should continue exactly as they would if there were no citizenship concerns. If you have recently become a citizen, there are no concerns about the status of your citizenship. Because your citizenship has already been awarded and approved, it cannot be taken away from you. The same goes for permanent resident status. If your green card has already been approved, it will not be taken away. When you refile for your green card, the application contains no marriage questions and even allows you to change your name when filing the paperwork.

In short, if you have obtained the permanent resident status or U.S. citizenship, you have no reason to worry about your status when getting divorced. Your status cannot be revoked because of the divorce and your status cannot be used against you in your divorce case.

What Types of Law Does Divorce Matters Practice?

Just from our name, it’s easy to tell that we excel in divorce law, but what other kinds of cases can Divorce Matters handle? We are a law firm specializing in family law. Family law covers a wide variety of different cases including:

Adoption

Estate Planning

Divisions of Marital Property

An important part of the divorce process in Colorado is figuring out how to divide marital property. The procedure generally involves two steps. First, it must be determined what marital property is. Second, the marital property must be divided equitably

Spousal Maintenance

In Colorado, neither spouse has an automatic right to maintenance. The court may award maintenance only if it finds that the spouse seeking maintenance lacks sufficient property to meet their reasonable needs and, in addition, is either unable to support themselves through appropriate employment or should not be required to seek employment because of child care responsibilities. Divorce Matters has lots of experience in Spousal Maintenance negotiations and our attorneys are the perfect choice to help you!

Child Custody

When children are involved, the divorce process doesn’t end once the final paperwork is filed. With children come often contentious and painful negotiations about and modification of parental rights, parenting time, and custody. Our team has deep experience dealing with child custody and parental rights issues and we believe it is our duty and an imperative to help couples address custody and rights issues in ways that reduce the impact of divorce and protect children in the process.

Child Support

In Colorado, child support is based on strict guidelines dictated by state laws and statutes. The issue of child support is separate and distinct from the issue of parenting time, and child support payments may not be conditioned upon parenting time. Due to these strict laws, it is important to have guidance from an expert attorney throughout the process.

Post Decree Modifications

Have your circumstances changed since your divorce? Have you lost your job? Has your ex-spouse received a salary increase? Did your ex-spouse fail to disclose financial matters during the dissolution of marriage? Once your divorce is finalized, fortunately, not everything in your original separation agreement or parenting plan is set in stone. Courts recognize that circumstances change, and, sometimes, spouses hide income or assets during the divorce process. Depending on the exact circumstances of your case, you may have a variety of options post-decree. In the following sections, we explore your options in modifying maintenance, child support, parenting time, custody, and decision-making, as well as how you can reopen your property division.

Mediation and Arbitration

Mediation and arbitration are perfect options for anyone going through a divorce. Both options allow the partners to take more control in the divorce, as well as keep the process out of court. Not only does Divorce Matters represent clients through mediation and arbitration, but we also have a mediator on staff!

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence happens to people in all classes, statuses, and ranks in life, regardless of age, gender, race, religion, education, profession, or socioeconomic status. The unfortunate reality is that one in four women in the U.S. will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, resulting in an estimated 1.3 million women becoming victims of physical assault by an intimate partner each year.

Contempt of Court

After having gone through a divorce or once you have some orders from the court, you may at some point find yourself on either end of a contempt of court action if one of the parties is not complying with the orders. If you find yourself on either end of a contempt action, Divorce Matters is here to help!

Unbundled Legal Services

Unbundled legal services are the perfect solution for anyone not ready to jump into full-scale representation. With unbundled services, you can hire an attorney at their hourly rate to help you with specific aspects of your legal troubles, like filing paperwork or gathering documents!

Common-Law Marriage

The state of Colorado allows couples to enter into common law marriage. However, the parameters of common law marriage can be hazy and difficult to understand, just like common law divorce

Appeals

If your case falls under family law, we can help with your appeal!

Prenuptial Agreements

While there are a million things to plan when a couple decides to marry, often the most difficult to discuss with your future partner is the possible need for a prenuptial agreement. While this subject is not the most romantic or exciting part of wedding planning, a couple contemplating marriage in Colorado may need to consider entering into a prenuptial agreement, or a contract before marriage.

Military Divorce

To thank our Military service members, we even offer 10% off of legal fees! This discount is offered to all active and retired service members, veterans, and military spouses.

Thomas Legal Firm

While Divorce Matters only deals in family law, we do have a sister law firm that offers other services. Thomas Law Firm deals with Criminal matters as well as Civil Law matters, including general litigation, civil rights, workers’ compensation, and business defense litigation.

What to Know About Filing for Divorce in Colorado

How Do I Start My Divorce

Divorce is a long and difficult process, and it can even be hard to know where to start. Whether you’re still deciding to proceed or you’ve already made up your mind, getting organized early on can help reduce stress and confusion later. Emotions can run high, and the legal steps may feel overwhelming at first. But with the right preparation and support, the process can become more manageable. This blog post will give you a general idea of what documents to gather, how to begin the process, and what to expect during those first important steps.

Step One: Contact an Attorney

First thing’s first, we always recommend calling a lawyer. Not only us, but the American Bar Association suggests that “you should talk with a lawyer about major life events or changes, which might include a divorce.” We know that seems obvious coming from a law firm, but we’re not alone in thinking so! Just read what one of our reviewers has to say:

“I started my divorce by myself…huge mistake.”

Working with an attorney ensures that your rights are protected from the very beginning. Divorce can quickly become complicated – especially if children, shared property, or business interests are involved. Legal professionals help you navigate these challenges and avoid costly missteps. If you’re filing for divorce in Colorado, it’s especially important to understand the state-specific laws and timelines, as they can differ significantly from other states.

When you reach out to our firm, our Client Relations Specialists will match you with the attorney that is right for your situation and personality for your initial consultation. Your consultation will allow you to meet with your attorney, ask them any questions you might have, and discuss pricing so you can plan accordingly. You can learn more about our attorneys and their experience here.

Step Two: Try to Reach Agreement Early If Possible

Aside from hiring an attorney, there are a few things that you can do that will help to streamline the process. One of the best things you can do is try and have an open conversation about what you both want. Your divorce will be the simplest if you and your ex can both come to an agreement on what each of you wants and needs out of the process, including:

  • Division of property
  • Custody and parenting time
  • Child and or spousal support
  • Who will remain in the marital home

We understand that not every couple is on speaking terms, and some situations may not allow for a civil conversation. But if communication is possible, even partial agreements can significantly reduce the time and cost involved when filing for divorce in Colorado – making the process less stressful and more predictable for everyone involved.

Step Three: Gather Essential Documents

If you cannot come to an agreement, the best course of action is to start compiling the necessary paperwork. Your attorney will need documentation to accurately assess your financial picture and help you move forward with negotiations or litigation. This paperwork can include:

  • Credit card statements
  • Childcare bills
  • Utility bills
  • Loan documentation
  • Medical bills or statements
  • Income and tax statements
  • Retirement accounts and statements
  • Investment account information
  • Vehicle information
  • Appraisals for major assets

It is important to note that these documents will be needed whether you can come to an agreement with the other party or not. Don’t stress if you don’t have every piece right away – but the more information you can gather early, the better prepared your attorney will be to advocate for you. When filing for divorce in Colorado, courts require both parties to make full financial disclosures. Having these documents ready ahead of time helps your case move faster and reduces stress throughout the process.

Step Four: Document Communication in Writing

In addition to the paperwork, it is important to start documenting your communication with the other party. The best way to do this is by only communicating in writing – text, emails, etc. This is especially important if there are children involved, as this documentation will be important in court proceedings, especially if you consider the other parent to be unfit or a danger to your child or children. Even in amicable situations, written communication avoids confusion and provides a clear record of what was said and agreed upon. Clear, consistent documentation can help protect your interests and provide valuable evidence should any disputes arise later in the process.

If you’re filing for divorce in Colorado, having well-documented interactions can also strengthen your case in areas like parenting time and decision-making responsibilities.

Step Five: Take Care of Yourself Emotionally

While the legal and logistical aspects are important, don’t forget that divorce takes an emotional toll. You may experience grief, anger, confusion, or anxiety—often all at once. Seeking support through a therapist, counselor, or support group can help you manage the emotional side of things while staying focused on practical steps. If you have children, this emotional support can also help you be more present and available for them as they navigate the changes in their lives.

Many people going through the process of filing for divorce in Colorado find emotional support especially valuable, as the legal system, court deadlines, and negotiations can often feel overwhelming. It is important to seek support from family, friends, and even a therapist to help you get through this difficult time and focus on growing for your future.

Step Six: Consider Your Future Needs

As you prepare for divorce, it’s also helpful to think beyond the paperwork and toward your long-term future. Ask yourself questions like:

  • Will I need to move?
  • Do I want to keep the house, or sell it?
  • Will I be financially independent, or will I need support?
  • How will parenting time be shared, and how flexible can I be?
  • What does my ideal outcome look like?

Knowing what you want helps your attorney advocate more effectively on your behalf. It also empowers you to make informed decisions during negotiations, rather than reacting out of fear or emotion. Understanding your goals early is especially important when filing for divorce in Colorado, as the legal process can move quickly once deadlines are set. Divorce Matters® partners with several industry professionals to help you with any of these questions you may have. Learn more about them here.

Step Seven: Contact Divorce Matters®

Divorce isn’t easy, but starting with a solid foundation can make the journey less overwhelming. With the right legal team and the right preparation, you can move forward with clarity, confidence, and control.

At Divorce Matters®, we know how emotionally and financially stressful this process can be—and we’re here to make it as smooth as possible. Our team of experienced family law attorneys understands the unique challenges of filing for divorce in Colorado, and we provide the compassionate, knowledgeable support you need to make empowered decisions every step of the way.

With offices across Colorado—including Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Castle Rock, Centennial, and Fort Collins—we’re proud to serve individuals and families throughout the state. Whether your case involves custody, property division, alimony, or complex financial assets, we have the experience and local insight to guide you through.

If you’re ready to take the first step in filing for divorce in Colorado, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation. We’re here to protect what matters most—your future.

Can My Citizenship Status Affect My Divorce?

Divorce can be a difficult process on its own, but when you have citizenship concerns it can become even more daunting. However, if you arm yourself with knowledge about your situation you can properly prepare yourself for what to expect.

Is there any difference in the divorce proceedings or parental rights hearings if I am not a U.S. citizen or if I have recently become a U.S. citizen?

The short answer is no! The proceedings should continue exactly as they would if there were no citizenship concerns. If you have recently become a citizen, there are no concerns as to the status of your citizenship, because your citizen status cannot be taken away due to your divorce.

Will divorce affect my green card status?

This question has a more complicated answer than the first! To understand how divorce might affect your citizenship status, you first have to understand how the citizenship process works. To become a citizen, you must have a green card. In order to get that green card, through marriage, immigration officials must confirm that your marriage is a “bona fide” marriage. This just means it cannot be a marriage for citizenship. After you get your green card, you have to retain it for a certain amount of time, usually 5 years, to gain your citizenship. However, this time shortens from 5 years to 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen. If you do file for divorce before the 3 years is up, you will not have your green card revoked, however you will have to wait the 5-year waiting period for citizenship, as opposed to the 3-year waiting period when you are married to a U.S. citizen. This also holds true if you have been married longer than 3 years, but less than 5 years, and have not yet filed for citizenship. If you have already had your green card for 5 years before you file for divorce, however, the divorce will have no bearing on when or if you can file for citizenship.

If the divorce is contentious and your ex-spouse claims that the marriage was not bona fide, the case can become a little bit more difficult. If you already have citizenship, this will not affect your citizenship. If you still have your green card, you will just have to prove that the marriage is or was bona fide, either by what immigration officials have already proven or by your own evidence, to continue in the citizenship process.

What if I am undocumented? Can I still get a divorce?

If you are undocumented, you can still get a divorce and proceedings will continue as they would for any other divorce case. It is important to note, though, that anything you say in divorce court can also be used against you in immigration court. Because of that, if you are undocumented, it is wise to retain an immigration attorney as well as a divorce attorney in the case that you do want to file for divorce. Being undocumented could also make parenting agreements difficult, especially if you are deported or leave the United States. Again, in this case it is important to retain an immigration attorney, as well as a divorce attorney, to protect your parental rights.