Colorado County Family District Court Information
| County | Court Location | Phone Number | Court Hours | Important Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | Denver District Court, 1437 Bannock Street, Denver, CO 80202 | (720) 865-8301 | 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday | Expect a security checkpoint with metal detectors and bag inspections. Arrive early. Parking is limited; consider nearby paid parking lots or street parking options. |
Eligibility and Colorado County Requirements
In Colorado, to file for divorce, at least one spouse must have lived in the state for 91 days, and the state uses a no-fault standard. This means proving the marriage is “irretrievably broken” without blaming either party, simplifying the process and reducing conflict for everyone involved.
The 6-Month Texas Residency and 90-Day County Rule
To file for divorce in Texas, one spouse must have lived in the state for at least six months. Also, at least one must reside in the filing county for 90 days. Even if a spouse lives out of state, the Texas resident must satisfy these conditions. The venue is the county where either spouse meets these criteria. If both lived together in Texas and one moves away, the divorce can still be filed in the county where the Texas resident lives.
How to File for Divorce in Colorado County: Step-by-Step
Going through divorce in Colorado County requires understanding emotional and legal timelines. Familiarize yourself with state requirements and deadlines for a smooth transition, starting with gathering documents and filing with the court clerk, either in person or online. Grasping these steps lays a solid foundation for future proceedings.
Step 1: Preparing the Original Petition for Divorce
To start the divorce process in Colorado, prepare the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, including detailed information about both spouses and marriage details. Specify requests for property and debt division, alimony, child custody, visitation, and child support. Submit additional required forms, such as a Summons and Case Information Sheet. If children are involved, include a Parenting Plan and Child Support Worksheet.
Create your free account to see if you’re eligible to file for online divorce in Texas. Complete all paperwork from the comfort of your home, with no hidden fees.
Step 2: Filing Fees and E-Filing via the District Clerk
To divorce in Colorado, you must pay a filing fee of about $350, though it may vary by county. Use the Colorado Courts E-Filing System for electronic submissions by first creating an account. Upload your completed forms and pay the fee online with a credit or debit card. The district clerk will review your submission; if correct, you’ll receive confirmation and further instructions.
Step 3: Service of Process and Waivers of Service
In Colorado and Texas, after filing for divorce, you must serve your spouse with a Citation, officially notifying them of the legal action. the Waiver of Service allows your spouse to acknowledge receipt voluntarily, bypassing formal service and saving time and money. This waiver must be notarized to ensure its validity. Both states have strict rules about notarization timing, as the signing date can affect when the court finalizes orders.
Requirements for Parents: The Parent Stabilization Class
In Colorado County, Texas, divorcing or disputing custody parents must attend a state-approved, four-hour Parent Stabilization Class. This course helps minimize the impact of family changes on kids. It’s very important to choose a class specific to Colorado County, as each county may have different prerequisites. After completion, parents receive a Certificate of Completion that must be filed with the court to avoid legal issues.
The 60-Day Waiting Period and Finalizing Your Case in Colorado County
In Colorado County, a 60-day waiting period is required to finalize uncontested divorces after the initial petition is filed. This time allows for reflection or reconciliation. If uncontested, the divorce can be finalized once this period ends. If disputes arise, court-ordered mediation may be needed where a neutral party helps resolve issues like custody or property division.
Erin Bensen is a relationship expert and a writer known for her articles on love and marriage. Being a paralegal, she also writes about divorce and the procedures around it. Erin regularly contributes to Modern Love Counseling and other divorce blogs, offering practical advice and support. Right now, Erin is working on her personal podcast, where she intends to discuss the complexities of relationships and help couples considering divorce.