Anyone who is going through a divorce likely has felt the pang of dread that comes with the thoughts of having to battle with the person you once loved. People tend to think about the high-stress divorces that are highlighted in movies and on television. Not all divorces have to be on the “War of the Roses” level. Some divorces can be a joint effort to end a marriage.
In Colorado, people who don’t have children and meet certain requirements can file for a simplified divorce. Since Colorado is a no-fault divorce state, one party simply has to say that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
The criteria for a simplified divorce are fairly straightforward. Both spouses have to agree on the property division. There can’t be any disputes. The respondent has to have been served with a copy of the divorce papers. The petition has to be filed with a copy of the affidavit of facts and the separation agreement.
There are some instances in which a couple with children might qualify for a simplified divorce. Both spouses have to agree on child support, child custody and all other applicable aspects of getting a divorce. Both spouses have to have counsel representing them. In that case, a simplified divorce might be possible.
When a simplified divorce is used, the couple won’t have to go through a hearing to end their divorce. Instead, they prepare the Affidavit for Decree without Appearance of Parties. As long as all necessary forms are filed with the court, the divorce can be finalized. The necessary forms vary from one case to another, so petitioners and respondents should work with counsel to ensure all required forms are properly completed and filed.
Source: DivorceSupport.com, “Colorado Uncontested Divorce” Dec. 08, 2014
