How to Start a Divorce or Legal Separation in Colorado
A legal separation or divorce starts with filing a petition with the court. This is generally accomplished in one of two ways:
One of the parties to the marriage files the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage or Legal Separation as the “Petitioner” and pays the filing fee. The other party, known as the “Respondent” can then sign a waiver and acceptance of service of the Petition. If the Respondent is unwilling to sign the waiver, the Petitioner must formally serve the Respondent. The Respondent will be required to file a Response to the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage or Legal Separation and pay a separate filing fee.
Alternatively, the parties may both sign the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage or Legal Separation. In this case, no response is required and the parties will only need to pay one initial filing fee.
Once the case has been properly filed, there will be several important steps and deadlines to accomplish before the divorce or legal separation will be final. If you have questions about starting a divorce or legal separation, call the Hanson Law Firm, LLC.