Making the decision to end your marriage is both complicated and emotional, both for you and your kids. Even if you and the other party are committed to working together to reach a divorce resolution that is meaningful and sustainable, it can still be a difficult process for both of you. Due to the emotions and stress associated with divorce, it is helpful to know as much as possible about Colorado divorce laws, how to pursue a beneficial outcome and how to protect your rights at every step.
Colorado is a no-fault divorce state, a distinction that could be important for your situation. In a no-fault divorce, there is no specific reason given for the divorce filing, which is a requirement in some states. There is no need to designate a divorce as no-fault as this is automatic when filing the papers with the court, but you may still have to provide grounds for the divorce.
Your divorce, your future
In divorces where the applicant must list a reason, common ones include irreconcilable differences, adultery, neglect, abandonment, cruelty and more. By taking the requirement of fault out of the divorce process, it may make the initial stages of the divorce process a bit easier. Even in a no-fault divorce, however, it may be a requirement to list the grounds for the divorce.
Some of the most common grounds for no-fault divorce include irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, incompatibility or irreconcilable differences. With an uncontested no-fault divorce, the couple is in agreement on all divorce matters, including property division and child custody, and there is no need for litigation. In a contested no-fault divorce, there are still issues to resolve before the divorce can be final.
Navigating your divorce
The decisions you make during your divorce will impact you for years to come. It is critical that you make choices that are in your long-term best interests and not just based on your temporary emotions. If you are unsure of how to proceed, you may benefit from seeking the guidance of a legal professional who can provide insight and support at every step. There is much at stake for you during this process, but a strong, stable future is possible.