In the state of Colorado, there are two ways to end a married relationship: divorce and legal separation. Divorce officially dissolves your marriage, but the alternative – legal separation – leaves you still married.
Legal separation is a means to end your marital relationship. However, it’s not the same as a divorce. Because a marriage is a legal contract between two adults, the only way to officially dissolve your marriage is through divorce. Legal separation deals with many of the same aspects of your relationship as a divorce does, such as child custody, property division and child support, but at the end of the process, you’re still married.
Legal Separation vs. DivorceThe process for legal separation in Colorado is very similar to the divorce process. It’s generally the result that’s different. That can make legal separation—or divorce—a more preferable option for some couples, depending on their situation, needs, and objectives.
Spouses will seek legal separations in Colorado, instead of divorce, for various reasons, like (but not limited to):
All of these benefits of legal separation are no longer available once a divorce is final. Another critical distinction between legal separation versus divorce in Colorado is that only divorced parties can remarry. Those who are legally separated cannot remarry until they convert their legal separation into a divorce case and that divorce case has been finalized.
For those pursuing legal separation or divorce in Colorado, there will be certain similarities. These include:
Whether you are considering a legal separation or divorce in Colorado, it’s always best to consult an attorney before making any moves. Discussing the issues and your goals with a family lawyer can reveal your best options. It can also help you avoid any mistakes that have the potential to sabotage your standing in a case.
A legal separation isn’t the same thing as a trial separation. Many couples try living apart for a while – a trial separation – to see if they’re better off without each other. At the end of a trial separation, the parties can decide whether it’s time to legally end their marital relationship.
Whether to divorce or legally separate is a very personal decision for couples. In some cases, people choose legal separation because there’s still a chance for reconciliation, but one or both parties really needs a break from the relationship. In other cases, people choose legal separation because they have religious or moral objections to divorce. Still others use a legal separation to maintain one party’s medical insurance or preserve military- or employment-related benefits, or to take advantage of tax benefits that are only available to married couples.
A separation agreement used in both divorces and legal separations. It can include information on child custody, property division and other important issues. Preferably, you and your spouse can work on it together – that way, you keep important decisions out of the judge’s hands and under your control.
If your separation agreement is fair and reasonable to both of you, the judge will probably approve it.
Before you can file for legal separation in Colorado, you must have lived in the state for at least 91 days. When you petition the court for a separation, you must include a legal reason for your request – and fortunately, we live in a no-fault state. That means you don’t have to blame yourself or your ex-spouse when you file. You only have to tell the court that your marriage is irretrievably broken and that there’s no chance that you will reconcile.
You must go through a 3-month waiting period. During that time, the judge in your case expects you to negotiate the terms of your separation agreement. You’ll have to agree on things like child custody, alimony and the division of property. If you and your spouse can’t reach your own agreements, your judge will make decisions for you.
Your divorce attorney will probably advise you to negotiate with your spouse (and even assist you in the process). That’s because litigation is expensive and time-consuming, and your lawyer wants you to resolve your case as quickly and as painlessly as possible.
If you’re considering a legal separation or divorce, we may be able to help you. Contact us for a consultation with a legal separation attorney today. We can answer all your questions and help you make the right decisions for your future.
If you have decided to get a divorce, the next steps can seem daunting. Here we provide a few answers to common questions about filing for divorce.
Depending on your family, financial, and personal circumstances there are many factors you will want to consider when filing for divorce. Find out what type of divorce is right for you.
If you have children and are going through a divorce, one of the hardest things to do is to tell your children. Learn more about the effects of divorce on children.
How long will it take for the Court to issue a Decree of Dissolution of Marriage? The earliest a Colorado court could issues the divorce decree is 91 days after the petition was filed. However it can take longer than 91 days, as expert valuations and reports may be needed.
How can a divorce attorney help with an uncontested divorce? Uncontested divorce generally means the parties have agreed upon all issues, or they believe they will be able to easily agree on all issues. A divorce attorney can help with an uncontested divorce by ensuring everything drafted properly.
What are mandatory financial disclosures? Financial disclosures are required of both parties in every divorce case, within the first 45 days after the petition has been filed. The exchange of mandatory financial disclosures is intended to put each party on a level playing field as it relates to the finances of the divorce.
