If you are facing a divorce in Colorado, understanding the costs upfront can help you plan and avoid surprises. Colorado court filing fees are approximately $230 for most counties, and a DIY uncontested divorce can be completed for under $400 total. This guide breaks down exactly what you will pay at every stage.
Colorado divorce costs at a glance
| Type of divorce | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Uncontested DIY (no lawyer) | $230–$400 |
| Uncontested with attorney | $3,000–$8,000 |
| Contested with attorney | $15,000–$30,000+ |
| Online divorce service | $150–$500 |
Colorado court filing fees by county
The base filing fee for a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in Colorado is approximately $230 in most counties. Here are the fees for the most populated counties:
- Denver County: ~$230
- El Paso County (Colorado Springs): ~$230
- Arapahoe County (Aurora): ~$230
- Jefferson County (Lakewood): ~$230
- Adams County: ~$230
- Boulder County: ~$230
If your spouse files a Response, there is an additional fee of approximately $116. If you use the Waiver of Service, there is no additional service fee.
What makes Colorado divorce costs go up?
- Disputes over child custody, parenting time, or child support
- Disagreements about division of marital property
- Spousal maintenance (alimony) disputes
- Business valuation or complex retirement accounts requiring a QDRO
- A spouse who is uncooperative or difficult to locate
Can you get divorced in Colorado without a lawyer?
Yes. Colorado allows self-represented (pro se) filers. If your divorce is uncontested and both spouses agree on all issues, you can complete the entire process for approximately $230–$400 in court fees. Colorado has an excellent self-help center with free forms at coloradojudicial.gov.
→ How to File for Divorce in Colorado Without a Lawyer — Full Guide
Divorce costs in Denver specifically
If you are filing in Denver County, the filing fee is approximately $230 at the Denver District Court Family Division located at 1437 Bannock Street. Denver cases tend to take slightly longer to process than smaller counties due to higher case volume, but the fees are the same.
→ Filing for Divorce in Denver — Complete Guide
Free and low-cost divorce options in Colorado
- Colorado Judicial Branch self-help forms — free at coloradojudicial.gov
- Colorado Legal Services — free legal help for qualifying low-income residents
- Denver Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service — reduced-fee consultations
- Online divorce services ($150–$500) — prepare paperwork but do not provide legal advice
How long does a divorce take in Colorado?
Colorado has a mandatory 91-day waiting period from the date your spouse is served. Most uncontested DIY divorces in Colorado are finalized in 3–5 months. Contested divorces typically take 12–24 months depending on the complexity of disputes.
Frequently asked questions — Colorado divorce cost
What is the cheapest way to get divorced in Colorado?
The cheapest way to get divorced in Colorado is to file an uncontested divorce yourself using the free forms from the Colorado Judicial Branch website. Your main cost is the $230 filing fee. Total costs for a DIY uncontested divorce in Colorado are typically $230–$400.
Can I get a fee waiver in Colorado?
Yes. If you cannot afford the filing fee, you can submit a Motion to Use a Pseudonym or a financial affidavit requesting a fee waiver. If your income qualifies, the court may waive the filing fee entirely.
How much does a lawyer charge for divorce in Colorado?
Attorneys in Colorado typically charge $250–$450 per hour. For an uncontested divorce, flat-fee packages typically range from $1,500 to $5,000. For a contested divorce, total attorney fees typically range from $15,000 to $30,000 or more.
Does Colorado require a waiting period before divorce?
Yes. Colorado has a mandatory 91-day waiting period from the date the petition is served on your spouse. The divorce cannot be finalized before this period ends, regardless of whether both spouses agree.
More Colorado divorce resources
- How to File for Divorce in Colorado Without a Lawyer
- Filing for Divorce in Denver, Colorado
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Virginia?
- How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Texas?
- How to File for Divorce in North Carolina Without a Lawyer
Legal disclaimer
The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce costs in Colorado vary by county and individual circumstances. If your divorce involves significant assets, children, or disputes, consider consulting a licensed attorney in Colorado.