When couples agree on the terms of their divorce, they often want to finalize the process as quickly as possible. In Colorado, uncontested divorce offers a streamlined approach that avoids court battles and excessive legal fees. But how long does it actually take to complete? While an uncontested divorce is much faster than a contested one, there are still legal requirements and waiting periods that affect the timeline.
At Foothills Collaborative Divorce Professionals (FCDP), we help couples navigate uncontested divorce through a collaborative and efficient process that keeps stress and delays to a minimum. If you are considering an uncontested divorce, here’s what you need to know about the timeline and factors that can affect how long it takes.
The 91-Day Waiting Period in Colorado
Colorado law requires a mandatory 91-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. This waiting period begins when both parties are served or jointly file and sign the petition. Even if both parties fully agree on all terms, the court will not finalize the divorce before this timeframe has passed.
This waiting period is designed to allow couples time to reconsider their decision and ensure that all agreements are fair and thorough. While it may feel like a delay, it is an essential part of the legal process to ensure that both parties are making informed choices.
Typical Timeline for an Uncontested Divorce
While the 91-day waiting period is the minimum timeframe, the actual length of an uncontested divorce depends on how quickly both parties complete the required steps. In most cases, a simple uncontested divorce can be finalized within three to four months, but some factors can extend the process.
A typical uncontested divorce follows these steps:
- Filing the petition: One spouse files the necessary paperwork with the court. If filing jointly, both spouses sign together.
- Serving the other spouse: If the petition is filed by one spouse alone, it must be legally served to the other.
- Drafting the settlement agreement: Both spouses must reach a formal agreement on all divorce terms, including property division, parenting plans, and financial matters.
- Court review: A judge reviews the agreement to ensure it is legally sound and fair to both parties.
- Final decree issued: If everything is in order, the court finalizes the divorce after the waiting period has passed.
For couples who work efficiently and submit all paperwork correctly, the process can be completed soon after the waiting period ends.
What Can Delay an Uncontested Divorce?
Even when both spouses agree on the divorce terms, certain factors can slow down the process. One of the most common causes of delay is missing or incorrect paperwork. The court will not approve a divorce if the required documents are incomplete or contain errors, leading to unnecessary setbacks.
Other potential delays include:
- Slow communication between spouses: If one spouse takes longer to review or sign documents, the process can stall.
- Issues with serving divorce papers: If one spouse cannot be located or is uncooperative, this step may take extra time.
- Court processing times: Some counties handle divorces more quickly than others, depending on their caseload.
To keep things moving smoothly, it is best to work with a collaborative divorce professional who can help ensure all paperwork is completed correctly and submitted on time.
How Collaborative Divorce Can Help
Many couples assume that an uncontested divorce means they do not need any professional assistance. However, even small mistakes can lead to unnecessary delays or financial complications.
A collaborative divorce process provides couples with the support of legal, financial, and family professionals who help ensure that all agreements are thorough, fair, and legally sound. This approach also helps reduce tension and miscommunication, making it easier to finalize the divorce efficiently.
Collaborative divorce is especially beneficial when:
- Couples want to avoid common legal pitfalls that could slow down the process.
- Spouses need guidance on financial and parenting agreements to prevent disputes.
- Both parties want to keep the divorce amicable and fair, ensuring a smooth transition.
Moving Forward with Confidence
An uncontested divorce in Colorado is one of the fastest ways to legally end a marriage, but it still requires careful planning and attention to detail. While the minimum timeframe is 91 days, most divorces take three to four months to finalize. With clear communication and the right professional support, couples can avoid unnecessary delays and complete the process as efficiently as possible.
At Foothills Collaborative Divorce Professionals (FCDP), we specialize in helping couples navigate uncontested divorce quickly and effectively while ensuring that all agreements are legally sound. Contact our team today and let us help you find the right professionals to guide you toward a smooth, stress-free divorce.
