Emotions run high. Ties are severed. A legal and exhausting battle commences. A 2019 Insider report said that the top reason for divorce among couples is the lack of commitment to the marriage. The second leading cause is infidelity or when your spouse has extramarital affairs. Reasons for seeking the dissolution of marriage weigh significantly for courts in some states that allow a “fault divorce.” If you’re seeking a divorce in a “no-fault” divorce state such as Colorado, these are the things that you need to know:
Options
For residents of Colorado who want to end their marriages, there are two options: divorce and annulment. In a divorce, you and your partner will be recognized as legally single and be allowed to get married again. Should you seek an annulment, the court will hold that you and your spouse’s marriage was never valid in the first place. These two options have the same legal effect. There is also a third option available, but it will not entail the dissolution of marriage. A couple can opt to be separated legally. A court can step in to sort issues on child custody and support, and restraining orders. This, however, will not allow you to enter a new marriage or domestic partnership.
Divorce
Divorce in Denver is known as the “dissolution of marriage” or “dissolution of domestic partnership.” According to state laws, you can tell the court that your marriage had an “irretrievable breakdown,” and the court will step in. As such, only one party seeking a divorce is needed, and the process will proceed. Even if the other party refuses to participate in the divorce, it will not obstruct the process. A 2018 US News report said that Colorado is one of the worst states for divorce. Colorado, a “no-fault” divorce state, posts a whopping rate of 13.52 per 1,000 married individuals. It places 10th in countries with the highest divorce rates, with Arkansas at the top.
Getting Good Legal Counsel
If you are resolute in ending your marriage, it is best to seek advice on what to tell the court about the cause of your broken marriage. Sorting paperwork and what can arise as legal disputes in getting a divorce will also be daunting. It will pay to find someone who will walk you through the whole process and help you navigate the tricky parts. A good lawyer can also help you settle the divorce amicably with your partner and family. Applying for divorce in Colorado falls under the specialization of family attorneys.
They can offer advice on other issues that arise when applying for a divorce, such as matters on child custody, child support, visitation orders, spousal maintenance, distribution of marital properties, and adoption. Should you have a hard time finding a lawyer who will give you the service that you need, you can also find assistance at the Denver District Court.
How to File for a Divorce
Divorce documents are posted on the Colorado Judicial Branch website and can be filed at the City and County Building. After the papers have been submitted, you might be called on to attend a mediation or trial to discuss and try to reach an agreement on disputes. All issues on properties and children, if applicable, need to be settled by either the parties or by the court before a divorce can be granted.
