Denver Contested Divorce Lawyer

Contested divorces in Colorado follow specific legal requirements that must be met for the court to proceed with the case. Understanding these requirements matters for anyone considering or currently navigating a contested divorce. Here are key aspects to consider:

Preparing your case means knowing each step in Denver's divorce process. The Denver District Court handles divorce filings and expects timely submissions for filings, responses, and required disclosures. Local court rules can affect how property and custodial issues proceed, so following these expectations helps you avoid delays or complications. We tailor our approach to Denver procedures and Colorado law so you stay ready for each phase.

What is a Contested Divorce?

A contested divorce happens when spouses cannot come to agreement on essential matters such as asset division, child custody, alimony, or other significant decisions connected to dissolving their marriage. Unlike uncontested divorces—where both parties agree on the terms—contested divorces often involve legal disputes that require court involvement.

In contested divorces, emotions can run high, so having a qualified attorney by your side ensures your rights remain protected and your voice is heard. At VanLandingham Law, LLC, we handle complex legal disputes and provide strong representation during this difficult period.

Residency Requirements for Filing a Divorce in Colorado

• Residency Requirements: To file for a contested divorce in Colorado, either spouse must have lived in the state for at least 91 days before submitting the petition.
• Grounds for Divorce in Colorado: Colorado operates as a no-fault divorce state, so no one must prove wrongdoing to seek a divorce. The only grounds recognized are that the marriage is irretrievably broken.
• Filing the Petition: The process begins when one spouse files a petition for divorce to start the legal proceedings. The other party must be served with divorce papers.
• Response and Counterclaim in Divorce Cases: After receiving the petition, the respondent has a deadline to reply. In contested divorces, the respondent may also file a counterclaim with their preferred terms for the divorce.
• Discovery Phase in Contested Divorces: This phase involves gathering relevant information, such as financial documents and witness statements, to support each party’s claims.
• Negotiation and Mediation Options: Parties often attempt to negotiate a settlement or attend mediation before a trial. This step can help reach an agreement without an extended, costly trial.
• Court Proceedings: What to Expect: If negotiation or mediation does not resolve all issues, the divorce case proceeds to court. Each side presents their case, and a judge makes decisions about property division, child custody, and alimony as required.

Within the City and County of Denver, couples file divorce cases at the Denver District Court. The court system schedules initial status conferences and may require parenting classes for parents who are divorcing. These local requirements encourage resolution and help ensure parents focus on their children’s welfare throughout the process. Knowing these procedures helps you manage your case more efficiently and avoid common setbacks.

Navigating Child Custody & Parenting Plans in Denver

Child custody decisions have a lasting impact on families. In Denver, courts seek to support healthy, stable relationships between children and both parents whenever possible. Parenting plans must address important points, including regular schedules, holidays, and decision-making authority. The Denver District Court reviews these plans with the child’s best interests as the priority, considering living arrangements, each parent’s support for the child, and communication between parents. We encourage solutions that work for your family and satisfy legal standards in Colorado.

If you expect disputes over custody or parenting time, we help you prepare for evaluations, possible mediation, and any required documentation. Denver court judges encourage agreements but will issue court orders when parents cannot agree. By understanding local expectations for parenting plans and proceedings, you can move forward with clarity as you work toward arrangements that fit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a contested divorce usually take in Denver?

The timeline depends on each case, but most contested divorces require several months, and complex issues may add more time. The Denver District Court’s schedule and required mediation sessions may affect how long the process takes.

Will I have to attend court in person during my divorce?

Most contested divorces require at least one in-person court appearance in Denver. Status conferences or mediation may occur virtually, but final hearings and trials usually take place at the Denver District Court.

Does Colorado require parents to take parenting classes during divorce?

Colorado courts, including those in Denver, often require parents in custody cases to complete parenting classes. These sessions help parents understand how divorce affects children and encourage smoother family transitions.