If you’re considering divorce in Colorado, one of the first questions on your mind might be how long the divorce process takes. The answer, like many aspects of divorce, isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Perkins Law, we understand that the timeline involved has a significant impact on your ability to move forward with your life, and we’re here to guide you through the process with clarity and compassion.
Circumstances Affecting How Long the Divorce Process Takes
Several circumstances can influence how long the divorce process takes in Colorado. Let’s break them down:
- Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce: An uncontested divorce, that is, both parties agreeing on all terms of the settlement, can be finalized in as little as 91 days. Contested divorces, however, can take significantly longer.
- Complexity of Assets: If you have complex financial situations or significant assets to divide, it can extend the divorce process.
- Disagreements Over Child Custody: Disputes over child custody and support can prolong the divorce timeline.
- El Paso County Court Schedules: The caseload of El Paso County family courts can affect how quickly your divorce moves through the system.
- Cooperation Between Parties: The more you and your spouse can agree on, the faster the process typically goes.
Understanding these components can help you set realistic expectations about how long your divorce process might take.
The Minimum Waiting Period in Colorado
In Colorado, filing for divorce starts a mandatory 91-day waiting period until El Paso County courts can finalize the divorce. This period is designed to give couples a chance to reconcile or, at the very least, carefully consider their decision.
But don’t be fooled – just because there’s a minimum doesn’t mean your divorce will be finalized on day 92. How long the divorce process takes beyond this minimum depends largely on the factors we discussed earlier.
Uncontested Divorce: The Fast Track
An uncontested divorce is typically the fastest route to finalizing your split. In these cases, both parties agree on all aspects of the divorce, including:
- Division of assets and debts
- Child custody and visitation schedules
- Child support and alimony payments
When you and your spouse see eye-to-eye on these issues, your divorce could be finalized shortly after the 91-day waiting period. However, even in uncontested cases, gathering all necessary documentation and filing the correct paperwork can take time. Having an experienced divorce lawyer can be the answer to keeping things moving smoothly.
Contested Divorce: A Longer Journey
When you and your current spouse disagree on the terms of your divorce, the process becomes contested. In that case, the question of how long the divorce process takes in Colorado becomes more complicated. Contested divorces can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the issues and the level of conflict between parties.
In a contested divorce, you might go through several stages:
- Discovery: Gathering and exchanging information about assets, debts, and other relevant details.
- Negotiations: Attempting to reach agreements on disputed issues.
- Mediation: Working with a neutral third party to resolve disagreements.
- Trial: If agreements can’t be reached, the case goes before a judge for decisions.
Each of these stages can add time to your divorce process. At Perkins Law, we strive to resolve as many issues as possible through negotiation and mediation, potentially saving you time, money, and stress.
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Expediting Your Divorce: Tips to Speed Up the Process
While you can’t circumvent the 91-day waiting period, there are ways to ensure your divorce doesn’t drag on unnecessarily:
- Be Prepared: Gather all necessary financial documents early in the process.
- Communicate: If possible, maintain open lines of communication with your spouse.
- Be Realistic: Understanding that compromise is often necessary can help avoid prolonged disputes.
- Consider Mediation: Even in contested divorces, mediation can often resolve issues faster than going to trial.
- Choose an Experienced Attorney: A knowledgeable family law attorney can navigate the system efficiently, potentially speeding up your divorce process.
Related: A Divorce Lawyer vs. A Divorce Mediator: Making the Right Choice for Your Colorado Springs Divorce
The Perkins Law Approach: Efficiency with Empathy
At Perkins Law, we understand that you’re likely wondering how long the divorce process takes because you’re eager to move forward with your life. We’re committed to helping you navigate your divorce as quickly as possible while ensuring your rights and interests are protected.
We’ll work diligently to resolve your divorce in a timely manner, whether that means skillfully negotiating an uncontested divorce or vigorously representing you in a contested case.
Your Next Steps
Understanding how long the divorce process takes is just the beginning. Every divorce, just like every marriage, is unique, and the timeline for ending it can vary based on your specific circumstances. If you’re considering divorce in Colorado, it’s imperative that you get personalized advice from an experienced Colorado Springs divorce attorney.
At Perkins Law, we’re more than just your attorneys – we’re your partners in navigating this challenging life transition. Let us help you move through your divorce process as smoothly and swiftly as possible, always with an eye on securing the best possible outcome for your future.
Ready to discuss your situation and get a clearer picture of what your divorce timeline might look like? Contact Perkins Law today for a free consultation. Let’s work together to chart the most efficient path forward for your Colorado divorce.
