Colorado Springs Divorce Lawyer

Military Divorce in Colorado Srings

Colorado Springs is home to a large military community, with more than 45,000 active-duty troops and over 100,000 veterans in the city alone. This includes those who live or work at installations such as Peterson Space Force Base, Schriever Space Force Base, Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station, U.S. Air Force Academy, and Fort Carson. 

Military service can bring unique challenges during divorce. Our Colorado Springs divorce lawyers have advised many service members and veterans with military divorce issues including:

• Custody and parenting plans impacted by a parent’s active-duty service, including deployments overseas.
• Property division, including the division of military benefits, pensions, and other specific assets. 
• Reasonable child support and spousal maintenance agreements. 

In El Paso County, military divorces often require navigating both local courts and federal guidelines. Service members follow specific rules about serving divorce papers and how retirement benefits are divided under the Uniformed Services Former Spouses’ Protection Act. We guide military families through steps such as documenting deployment, protecting parental rights during station changes, and addressing modifications when life circumstances shift. Our team stays up to date on the local processes and resources available to military families in Colorado Springs, so you can make informed decisions for your situation.

Grounds for a Colorado Divorce

Colorado follows no-fault divorce laws, so you do not need a specific reason to file. If either spouse wants to end the marriage, they may do so for any reason. 

Many divorcing couples find the idea of no-fault divorce confusing, especially regarding “bad behavior.” In the past, courts required reasons like adultery or addiction to grant a divorce. Today, such conduct rarely determines whether a divorce is granted, but it can impact other decisions the court makes. 

Some actions still matter in court decisions. Certain behavior can affect the judge’s rulings about issues like parenting or dividing property. Common examples include:

• Hiding assets during divorce in hopes of keeping them from division.
• Intentionally failing to disclose significant information needed in the case. 
• Criminal activity, substance abuse, or other conduct that could harm a child.
• Poor behavior related to parenting or custody matters. 

Colorado’s family law system does not assign blame or label winners and losers, but certain actions can have serious consequences in your case. One of the best ways to avoid these pitfalls—or make sure the court considers serious problems—is to work with experienced attorneys who guide you through each step and help protect your best interests.

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Colorado?

Every divorce is different, and how long it takes depends on your unique circumstances. There is no set answer for every case.

State law sets certain minimum time frames for tasks like filing paperwork and court responses—most importantly, there is a 91-day minimum between serving divorce papers and receiving a final divorce decree. The quickest a divorce can be completed in Colorado is three months. 

Clients in Colorado Springs often want to know how their case details affect their timeline. If your divorce involves children, the process can take longer because you may need to attend parenting classes and prepare detailed parenting plans. Courts like the El Paso County District Court may require mediation, extra documentation, or special hearings if substantial property is involved. We explain which steps apply locally and work to keep your case on track in El Paso County.

Other circumstances also impact how long a divorce takes in Colorado. 

Divorce moves faster when:

• Couples have straightforward finances and minimal debts.
• Both parties communicate well and settle key issues directly.
• Disagreements are resolved through negotiation or mediation.
• Parents commit to healthy co-parenting and smooth parenting schedules. 
• Spouses reach a settlement without needing court intervention.

When communication breaks down and parties can’t agree, the process usually takes longer. This is especially true when spouses cannot agree on important issues like property division or child custody. Court hearings or trials may be necessary in those cases to resolve the disputes. 

What Is The Colorado Divorce Process Like?

While every case is unique, the divorce process in Colorado generally follows a predictable progression. 

1. A preliminary stage where one spouse files a summons and petition with the court, and the other spouse is formally served. After service, respondents have 21 days to reply (if living in Colorado) or 35 days (if out of state). During this time, you and your attorney review assets, gather financial records, and discuss your goals regarding finances and parenting during the case.
2. An interim stage in which both parties exchange financial disclosures, conduct discovery of marital property, address living arrangements for children, and may attend temporary order hearings. 
3. A final stage that covers the negotiation—or litigation—of key issues like financial settlements and parenting plans. If you and your spouse cannot agree, mediation or a court hearing may follow. 

Clients in Colorado Springs often have questions about how local court protocols or timelines affect their divorce. The El Paso County District Court may set deadlines, require status conferences, or request additional forms for cases involving children or complex assets. We help clarify which documents and steps matter in your situation, offering step-by-step guidance for hearings and mediation. Knowing the expected process in your local court provides clarity and reduces unwanted surprises.

Preparing for each stage puts you in a stronger position. Gathering financial records and considering long-term parenting goals early makes discussions and negotiations easier. During the interim stage, you address urgent issues through temporary orders and strengthen your case with good documentation. Our attorneys aim to resolve disputes through communication, but also stand ready to protect your interests in court if the need arises.

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce

What factors can influence the outcome of a divorce settlement?

Courts weigh many factors when considering divorce settlements, such as each spouse’s financial contribution, the value of shared assets, and each person’s future needs. Other factors like the length of the marriage, standard of living, and any prenuptial agreements also play roles. Full disclosure and willingness to work together often produce a smoother outcome. Our attorneys help clients gather and prepare the right documentation for these decisions.

How is property divided in a Colorado divorce?

In Colorado, the law follows equitable distribution principles, meaning assets are divided fairly—even if not always equally. Courts focus on contributions to the marital estate, each party’s financial situation, and changes in the value of separate property during marriage. Well-organized financial records make property division smoother, and we help make sure your interests stay protected.

What are my options if my spouse is not complying with the divorce agreement?

If your former spouse does not follow the agreement, begin by documenting each missed obligation and attempt direct communication. If you can’t reach a solution, you may file a motion with the court. Judges can call hearings, order compliance, or even use contempt procedures that may lead to fines or penalties. Working with an attorney protects your rights and ensures you follow the proper legal path.

Contact Our Divorce Attorney in Colorado Springs Today

The Harris Law Firm is known across the state for providing tailored representation to individuals and families facing all types of family law issues. As experienced divorce attorneys, we take a collaborative approach to guiding clients through the process and leverage the insight of a highly experienced team to tackle even the toughest cases.

If you’re ready to begin a divorce, The Harris Law Firm can help you navigate the journey ahead. Call (303) 622-5502 or contact us online to request a consultation with our Colorado Springs divorce lawyer.