Uncontested Divorce

Colorado residents who are thinking about ending their marriages may want to learn more about uncontested divorces in this state and the steps to take when seeking marriage dissolution. Each case is decided on an individual basis, and Colorado law stipulates a no-fault approach to divorce. This means the only reason that can be cited for ending a marriage is a breakdown that is beyond repair. The person who initiates a divorce is referred to as the Petitioner, and the other party is the Respondent.

A person seeking marriage dissolution must have lived in the state for at least 90 days. The Petitioner can file the divorce actions in his or her local county court if the Respondent does not live in-state or if the respondent used to live in that county. A divorce can also be filed in the Respondent's county of residence.

The document necessary for initiating a divorce is the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, and a divorce is finalized by the Decree of Dissolution of Marriage. Up to twenty other documents may be necessary from the beginning to the end of the process. The district clerk's office is responsible for managing all of the necessary paperwork as well as informing Respondents, Petitioners and legal counsel about what is happening with the proceedings. This includes alerting them about hearing dates and times.

A family law attorney can help a Petitioner or Respondent sort out the issues pertinent to a divorce. Spousal and child support, child custody, visitation plans, and property and asset division are all important potential considerations for which legal counsel could be beneficial.

Source: Divorce Support, "Colorado Uncontested Divorce", September 15, 2014

Tags: Divorce, child custody, child support, visitation plans

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