Filing for divorce can feel like a daunting process, and with so many online options available, many couples wonder if they can handle their divorce entirely online. In Colorado, filing for divorce online is possible, but it’s not always the best approach. While online forms may seem convenient, they don’t offer the guidance needed to ensure a fair and comprehensive agreement—especially for couples looking to separate amicably.
At Foothills Collaborative Divorce Professionals (FCDP), we believe that divorce should be handled with care, ensuring that both parties feel supported and empowered throughout the process. If you're considering filing for divorce online, here’s what you need to know about the process, its limitations, and why collaborative divorce may be a better option.
How Online Divorce Filing Works in Colorado
Colorado allows couples to initiate the divorce process online by completing and submitting necessary forms through the state's judicial website. The process typically involves:
- Completing the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage and related documents.
- Filing paperwork electronically through the court’s system or in person.
- Serving the other spouse with divorce papers.
- Waiting for the mandatory 91-day waiting period before finalizing the divorce.
For couples who agree on all terms, such as asset division, parenting plans, and spousal maintenance, online divorce can seem like a straightforward option. However, without professional guidance, it’s easy to make mistakes that could cause delays or create issues down the road.
The Limitations of Filing for Divorce Online
While online divorce services promise a quick and affordable solution, they often lack the nuance required for a truly fair and sustainable agreement. Online platforms provide standardized forms, but they don’t account for the complexities of real-life divorce situations, such as:
- Unique financial arrangements that require careful planning.
- Co-parenting considerations that go beyond generic custody schedules.
- Hidden clauses in agreements that could cause legal trouble later.
Many couples find that what seems simple at first becomes overwhelming when they realize they need legal revisions or additional support to ensure their agreement holds up in court.
Why Collaborative Divorce Is a Better Alternative
Collaborative divorce provides a structured, yet flexible, way for couples to navigate separation without unnecessary conflict or stress. Instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all online solution, collaborative divorce allows spouses to work with neutral professionals, including financial experts and child specialists, to create agreements that meet both parties’ needs.
This approach is particularly beneficial for couples who want to:
- Keep decision-making in their hands rather than leaving it to a judge.
- Create a parenting plan that prioritizes children’s well-being over generic legal templates.
- Ensure financial transparency so that neither spouse is left at a disadvantage.
Unlike traditional litigation, which can be costly and emotionally draining, collaborative divorce fosters cooperation and problem-solving, making the process smoother and more respectful.
Can You Use Online Divorce Services and Still Work with a Collaborative Professional?
Yes! Some couples choose to begin the divorce process online by gathering initial paperwork, then bring in a collaborative divorce professional to review agreements and provide guidance before filing. This hybrid approach allows couples to take advantage of online resources while ensuring they’re making legally sound and fair decisions.
At FCDP, we help clients understand their legal rights, identify potential issues in agreements, and ensure that every detail is properly addressed before finalizing their divorce. This extra step can prevent costly mistakes and provide peace of mind during an already emotional time.
Is Filing for Divorce Online Right for You?
Online divorce may work for couples with no assets, no children, and a short marriage. However, for those with shared property, children, or financial complexities, relying solely on online services can lead to oversights that cause complications later.
If you and your spouse want to part ways with clarity, fairness, and mutual respect, collaborative divorce is the best choice. It offers the ease of online filing but with the added benefit of expert guidance, structured communication, and long-term solutions that protect both parties. Reach out to one of our professionals today - your future self will thank you.
