Divorce doesn’t happen overnight. If you’re thinking about filing in Colorado, you’re probably wondering how long the process will take. While every case is different, the law sets a minimum timeline, and other factors can stretch things out.
Colorado’s minimum divorce timeline
In Colorado, the shortest possible time for a divorce is 91 days. This countdown starts when the non-filing spouse is served or when both spouses file together. Even if you agree on everything, the court won’t finalize your divorce until after this waiting period ends.
Factors that delay the process
Disagreements over property, child custody, or support can push your timeline far beyond 91 days. If you and your spouse can’t reach an agreement, the court schedules hearings or even a trial. Each step adds weeks or months, especially if court calendars are full.
Financial disclosures also slow things down. Colorado requires both spouses to share detailed financial information with each other. If someone delays or doesn’t provide the full picture, that can stall the process.
Uncontested vs. contested divorces
Uncontested divorces move faster. If you and your spouse agree on everything, you may finalize right after the 91-day mark. Contested divorces take longer—sometimes over a year—depending on the number and complexity of disagreements.
Contested divorces often involve mediation, multiple court appearances, and more back-and-forth between parties. That means more time before the court enters the final decree.
What to expect moving forward
Plan for at least three months from start to finish. If issues arise, it could take much longer. The key to a quicker divorce process is cooperation. When both sides stay organized and willing to compromise, it helps move the case along faster.