📅 2026 Update: Changes in Colorado Divorce Laws and Resources

Since the original article was published, there have been several important updates regarding divorce processes in Colorado. These changes include new legislation that affects civil law and initiatives aimed at improving the legal landscape for families. The original article continues further down the page for detailed information on the DIY divorce process.

🏛️ Recent Legislation Changes

In 2026, the Colorado General Assembly passed new civil law measures. These changes include updates to civil asset forfeiture and protections against various forms of abuse in divorce situations. The "Ubuntu Bill," aimed at preventing cycles of abuse post-divorce, is particularly noteworthy.

It addresses issues like emotional and financial abuse, providing a more supportive framework for individuals navigating divorce.

📜 Filing Fees and Costs

As of January 16, 2019, the Colorado Judicial Branch has provided a summary of frequently used court filing fees. Readers should be aware that these fees can vary, depending on the specifics of their divorce case. Understanding these costs is essential for anyone considering a DIY divorce.

📅 Updated Divorce Process

The Judicial Legal Help Center has outlined a clear process for divorce cases involving children. Key steps include getting started, initiating the case, responding to the case, preparing for the hearing, and presenting at the final hearing. Knowing these steps can help you navigate the process more efficiently.

👫 Eligibility Requirements

To file for divorce in Colorado, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least 91 days. This requirement ensures that the court has jurisdiction over the case. Understanding this eligibility is crucial for those preparing to initiate a divorce.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 🏛️ New laws in 2026 focus on abuse prevention in divorce.
  • 📜 Filing fees are summarized by the Colorado Judicial Branch.
  • 📅 Clear steps exist for divorce cases involving children.
  • 👫 One spouse must reside in Colorado for 91 days to file.

💡 Tips for a Successful DIY Divorce

Reviewing the specifics of your situation with an attorney can clarify your options during the divorce process.

📝 Understand the Process

Familiarize yourself with the steps involved in a DIY divorce. The Judicial Legal Help Center provides a detailed overview of what to expect at each stage, from initiating the case to the final hearing.

📄 Gather Necessary Documents

Collect all essential documents before starting your divorce process. This includes financial records, property deeds, and any relevant agreements regarding children. Having everything ready can streamline the process.

🏠 Know Your Rights

Ensure you understand your rights regarding property division and child support. Knowing what you are entitled to can help you make informed decisions throughout the divorce.

📅 Be Aware of Deadlines

While specific filing deadlines are not provided, it is crucial to stay on top of any procedural timelines in your case. Missing deadlines can negatively impact your divorce proceedings.

📞 Utilize Available Resources

Take advantage of free resources like the Judicial Legal Help Center and LawHelp Colorado. These organizations offer guidance and support for individuals navigating the divorce process.

🏆 Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section reviews services that assist with DIY divorce processes based on Trustpilot data checked in October 2026. These services are ranked according to user reviews and feedback. User ratings can change, and they often reflect only a portion of customer experiences, as unhappy customers tend to leave more reviews.

🥇 1. Online Divorce

Online Divorce has been rated 4.0 on Trustpilot. It is known for its simple questionnaires and well-designed steps that guide users through the divorce process. However, some reviewers have noted unexpected expenses and additional charges, which can be a concern for those looking for a straightforward DIY option.

🥈 2. 3StepDivorce

3StepDivorce holds an impressive rating of 4.6, making it the highest-rated service on Trustpilot for DIY divorce. It is recognized for an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a user-friendly approach. However, users should be aware that pricing may vary by state and might be higher than flat-fee services, which can catch users off guard.

🆓 Free Government Options

For those seeking assistance without cost, free resources such as the Judicial Legal Help Center and LawHelp Colorado provide valuable information and support. These organizations help individuals navigate the complexities of the divorce process without incurring additional fees.

🔎 Comparing Services

  • 📊 Look for user ratings and reviews to gauge reliability.
  • 💰 Consider the total costs, including any potential hidden fees.
  • 📝 Assess the level of customer support offered.
  • 🕒 Check the time it takes to complete the process through each service.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 What should I do first in a DIY divorce?

Begin by understanding the eligibility requirements for filing in Colorado and gathering the necessary documents. Familiarizing yourself with the steps of the process will also be beneficial.

📅 How long does a divorce take in Colorado?

Specific processing times for divorce cases in Colorado are not available in the sources. However, being prepared with all documents can help speed up the process.

🏠 Can I file for divorce if my spouse does not live in Colorado?

You can file for divorce in Colorado only if at least one spouse has lived in the state for the last 91 days. If your spouse does not meet this requirement, you may need to explore options in their state.

💼 What happens at the final hearing?

During the final hearing, you will present your case, including any agreements on child custody, property division, and support. The judge will review your case and make a final ruling.

📜 What if I need legal help during the process?

If you encounter challenges during your DIY divorce, consider reaching out to resources like the Judicial Legal Help Center or LawHelp Colorado for guidance.

📝 What is the Ubuntu Bill?

The Ubuntu Bill, passed in 2026, aims to address and prevent cycles of abuse in divorce situations, including coercive control and emotional abuse. This legislation enhances protections for individuals navigating the divorce process.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Divorce in Colorado

Recent court rulings have addressed various aspects of divorce, including custody arrangements, support payments, and property distribution. These cases reflect ongoing legal interpretations that can impact DIY divorce processes.

For updates on more recent rulings, visit the news section for more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






 



A Do It Yourself Divorce in Colorado Guide



 

Do It Yourself Divorce in Colorado


If residing in the state of Colorado, and you’re seeking a divorce, there are some things you have to know about the process.



 



A Divorce Petition



 



A do it yourself divorce in CO begins first with what’s called a ‘petition for divorce.’ It’s a document that can be picked up from any legal aid service in the state. What happens with that document is the spouse wanting to file for divorce, known as the Petitioner or Plaintiff, fills out all the relevant information.



 



The petition for divorce is then delivered in person to the other spouse, known as the Respondent or Defendant in the matter. A copy of the petition also gets sent to the court in the county that either spouse resides in.



 



What Is Included in a Divorce Petition?



 



Any do it yourself divorce in Colorado includes the husband’s name, the wife’s name, and the names of children, if there are any children. If there are separate properties at all, addresses and actual property names also must be included. As far as issues that need to be agree on, typical understandings regarding child custody and support are also decided on in the petition by the Petitioner. Spousal support may also be something stipulated in the petition.



 



Steps Toward Serving the Petition



 



For a do it yourself divorce in CO, delivering the petition for divorce, also known as the “service of process,” is as easy as walking up to the other party and handing the papers to him or her. The next step is for the Respondent to either sign or not sign. If the paper is signed, then the petition moves forward. If not, a Plaintiff may then have to invest in the court to file for a default on the petition. If by chance the Respondent is unavailable for the Petitioner to deliver the petition personally, a professional server may be hired to find the Respondent and deliver the papers.



 



Once the Petition Is Served….



 



Typically in the state of Colorado, a waiting period is necessary after the divorce papers have been signed, by which automatic restraining orders for both parties are issues. In addition, it’s stipulated that neither parent, if children are present, can take children out of state. Pieces of property or insurance obtained during the marriage cannot be sold or borrowed or borrowed against.



 



A Respondent also has the right to file a “response” to any divorce petition, stating either that he or she agrees or disagrees with the petition. Upon agreement, though, the petition may never show up in court and proceed a lot quicker to a final judgment.



 



But in the case the Respondent disagrees with any part of the petition….



 



What Happens When One Spouse Doesn’t Agree With the Terms of the Divorce?



 



In a do it yourself divorce in Colorado, disagreements toward any petition might be anything from child support to child custody to property distribution to even the entire divorce petition.



 



The case would then proceed to court, by which a Respondent must prove that a petition must not be awarded in judgment for divorce. Any other disagreements as well – on property distribution, child custody, etc. etc. – would also be disputed in court.



 



After proceeding through each dispute, no matter what they are, a do it yourself divorce in CO will then continue on with the waiting period until the date where the court finalizes a decision on the petition and either awards the judgment for divorce or not.