Before the Ending Begins: Preparing for a Colorado Divorce

Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” -Fred Rogers

Divorce is one of life’s most challenging experiences, filled with emotional and financial complexities.
The feelings of loss, coupled with the fear of the future can often leave a person feeling like they are in the middle of a vast ocean with no help in sight.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. Finding the right attorney to walk by your side can make a big difference in your mental, emotional and financial state from today until the last piece of paper is signed.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Prepare Emotionally and Financially: Anticipate the challenges of divorce and plan for both emotional and financial impacts.
• Act Decisively and Stay Organized: Secure a skilled attorney, gather necessary documents, and make well-informed decisions.
• Safeguard Your Finances: Establish a separate bank account, create a detailed budget, and keep a close watch on your credit.

Whether you’ve decided to file for divorce or have been served with divorce papers, understanding the Colorado divorce process and preparing yourself now can make a big difference in the final outcomes.

Preparing for the journey ahead may sound daunting – but the right divorce attorney can help you do it. And make sure you get what you deserve along the way.

Recognize the Reality: Have the Right Expectations Before Your Divorce

Divorce is rarely easy, and it’s essential to set realistic expectations for yourself.

The emotional and financial tolls can be significant, and you want to walk into this chapter of your life with eyes wide open and a clear understanding as to what lies ahead.

Let’s look at ways you can prepare now for what may be coming next:

• Emotional Preparation: Acknowledge the emotional challenges and seek support from friends, family, or a therapist to help you navigate this difficult time.
• Financial Planning: Create a budget that reflects your new financial situation, start saving, and consider opening a separate bank account to manage your finances independently.
• Legal Readiness: Familiarize yourself with Colorado’s divorce laws, gather important documents, and consult with a competent divorce attorney to ensure your rights and interests are protected.

Where Do I Begin? 10 Questions to Ask Your Colorado Divorce Attorney

Like all states, Colorado has its own set of divorce laws that will be enforced through the family courts.
Knowing these laws and understanding how they apply to your situation is crucial for navigating the divorce process effectively.

Let’s look at some of the most important questions you’ll want answers to before you even begin the filing process.

#1: What Are the Residency Requirements for Filing for Divorce in Colorado?

To file for divorce in Colorado, at least one spouse must have been a resident of the state for at least 90 days before filing the divorce petition.

This ensures that the Colorado courts have jurisdiction over your case.

#2: What Is the Process for Filing for Divorce?

The process begins with filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage.

After filing, there is a mandatory 90-day waiting period before the divorce can be finalized. During this time, both parties will exchange financial information and attempt to reach agreements on key issues.

#3: How Is Property Divided in Colorado?

Colorado follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally.

The court considers factors such as each spouse’s financial situation, contributions to the marriage, and future needs when dividing assets and debts.

#4: What Are My Rights Regarding Child Custody and Support?

Child custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child. Colorado courts aim to ensure that children maintain strong relationships with both parents, unless there are concerns about safety or well-being.

Child support is calculated using state guidelines that consider both parents’ incomes and the needs of the child.

#5: What Is Spousal Maintenance and Am I Eligible?

Spousal maintenance, or alimony, may be awarded to support a lower-earning spouse.

The court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial resources, and the standard of living during the marriage. Maintenance can be temporary or permanent, depending on the circumstances.

#6: How Long Will the Divorce Process Take?

The duration of the divorce process varies depending on the complexity of the case and the level of agreement between the spouses.

At a minimum, the process takes 90 days due to the mandatory waiting period. Contested divorces with significant disputes can take much longer.

#7: What Are the Costs Associated with Divorce?

Divorce costs can vary widely. Factors influencing the cost include attorney fees, court fees, and expenses related to mediation or expert witnesses.

An uncontested divorce is generally less expensive than a contested one, where disputes are resolved in court.

#8: Can We Pursue Mediation or an Uncontested Divorce?

Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps spouses reach agreements on divorce terms.

An uncontested divorce occurs when both parties agree on all aspects of the divorce, including property division, child custody, and support. These options can save time and money compared to a contested divorce.

#9: What Should I Do to Protect My Finances During the Divorce?

Protecting your finances involves opening a separate bank account, creating a budget, and monitoring joint accounts for any unusual activity.

It’s also important to gather financial documents and keep track of your expenses to ensure a fair division of assets.

#10: What Documents Do I Need to Gather?

Essential documents include bank statements, tax returns, property deeds, mortgage statements, retirement account statements, and any other records related to your finances and assets.

Having these documents organized will facilitate the legal process and help your attorney build a strong case.
When You’re Looking for Help in the Storm, Geigle | Morales is Here

While divorce is never easy, our law firm is ready to help you navigate through this challenging time.

At Geigle | Morales, we understand the emotional and financial toll that divorce can take, and we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal support.

Let us be your trusted ally as you embark on this new chapter of your life.

Reach out to us today, and together, we will find a path forward.