Denver Divorce Attorney

Types of Divorce We Handle

Uncontested Divorce:

When spouses can agree on all issues, an uncontested divorce offers a faster, less expensive path to resolution. Our attorneys draft comprehensive settlement agreements that protect your interests while facilitating an efficient process.

Contested Divorce:

When significant disputes exist over property division, custody, or support, contested divorce requires skilled litigation. We provide aggressive advocacy in negotiations and courtroom proceedings while working toward efficient resolution.

High Net Worth Divorce:

Divorces involving substantial assets, business interests, investment portfolios, multiple properties, stock options, or retirement accounts, require sophisticated financial analysis. We work with forensic accountants and valuation experts to ensure complete asset identification and accurate valuation.

Collaborative Divorce:

For couples committed to resolving their divorce outside of court, collaborative divorce offers a respectful, private alternative. Both parties and their attorneys agree to work together toward settlement, often with neutral financial and mental health professionals. This approach can preserve relationships important for co-parenting and reduce emotional and financial costs.

Military Divorce:

Divorces involving military service members present unique considerations, including division of military retirement benefits, healthcare coverage, and deployment-related parenting issues. We understand federal laws affecting military divorce and coordinate with military legal assistance offices when appropriate.

International Divorce:

When one spouse is a foreign national, has assets abroad, or when jurisdictional issues span multiple countries, divorce becomes significantly more complex. Our attorneys have specialized training in international law to address these challenges effectively.

The Colorado Divorce Process

Understanding what to expect helps reduce anxiety and allows you to prepare effectively. While every case is unique, most Colorado divorces follow this general timeline:

Filing the Petition: One spouse files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court, initiating the case.
Service of Process: The petition must be formally served on the other spouse, who then has 21 days (if served in Colorado) or 35 days (if served outside Colorado) to respond.
Mandatory Disclosures: Both parties exchange sworn financial statements and supporting documentation within specified timeframes.
Temporary Orders: If needed, either party may request temporary orders addressing custody, support, or asset protection during the divorce process.
Discovery: Parties may conduct formal discovery, interrogatories, document requests, and depositions, to gather information necessary for case resolution.
Negotiation and Mediation: Most divorces settle through negotiation or mediation. Many Colorado courts require mediation before trial.
Trial: If settlement cannot be reached, unresolved issues proceed to trial where a judge makes binding decisions.
Final Decree: After the 91-day waiting period and resolution of all issues, the court enters a final decree of dissolution.

Protecting Yourself During Divorce

The decisions you make during your divorce, and the actions you take, can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Our attorneys provide guidance to help you avoid common mistakes.

Behaviors to Avoid:

• Hiding assets or providing incomplete financial disclosure, courts impose severe penalties for dishonesty
• Making major financial decisions without legal guidance, such as emptying accounts or taking on new debt
• Posting about your divorce or spouse on social media, this content can become evidence
• Denying the other parent access to children or making unilateral custody decisions
• Introducing new romantic partners to children before appropriate timing
• Communicating in anger or making threats, keep all communications professional

Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Divorce

How much does a divorce cost in Colorado?

Costs vary significantly based on case complexity and whether disputes can be resolved through negotiation or require litigation. Uncontested divorces with agreements on all issues cost significantly less than contested cases requiring extensive discovery and trial. During your consultation, we provide fee information and discuss factors that affect overall costs.

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

Yes. Colorado does not require both spouses to agree to the divorce. If you file a petition stating the marriage is irretrievably broken, the court will grant the divorce even if your spouse disagrees. However, disputes over property, custody, and support will need to be resolved through negotiation or litigation.

How is property divided in a Colorado divorce?

Colorado divides marital property equitably, considering factors like each spouse's contributions, economic circumstances, and the value of property assigned to each party. Separate property, assets owned before marriage, inherited, or received as gifts, generally remains with the original owner, though appreciation during the marriage may be marital property.

What happens to our home in a divorce?

Options include selling the home and dividing proceeds, one spouse buying out the other's interest, or one spouse remaining in the home with offsetting assets awarded to the other. The best approach depends on your financial situation, whether minor children are involved, and each spouse's ability to maintain the property.

Contact Our Denver Divorce Lawyers Today

If you are considering divorce or have already been served with papers, prompt action protects your rights. Contact Frost & Beck, PC to discuss your situation with an experienced Denver divorce attorney who will explain your options and help you understand what to expect. 

Call (720) 330-4623or reach out through our online contact form to schedule your consultation.