Divorce Paperwork in Colorado - Petition for Dissolution

Importance of Divorce Paperwork in Colorado

In any court proceeding, paperwork is probably at the heart of the entire system. Though it can get confusing and has the ability to trap a layperson easily in its complexities, it is lengthy precisely because it has to cater to a wide range of possible issues that the average person is unaware of. In this regard, a good Colorado divorce attorney can lead you safely through the maze and bring you out unscathed.

However, its quite important to know the basic divorce paperwork yourself so that you'll have a firm grasp of proceedings. All matters relating to Colorado divorce are subject to the Colorado rules of civil procedure which lay down detailed instructions on how such a court case must proceed.

Petition for Dissolution

The petition for the dissolution of marriage is the item that starts the entire proceedings. It can be filed by either one of the parties, or by both together and contains important information such as when the marriage took place, when the parties were separated, the number of children (including whether or not the wife is pregnant), as well as any arrangements regarding the separation of responsibilities.

If the petition has been filed by only one party, the other person mentioned must be served with the notice. In case the other party isn't easily found, all efforts must be made to reach him or her including the insertion of a notice in the local newspaper - after which, the party has 30 days to respond to the notice or risk having a default judgement entered.

As soon as the summons has been received by the other party, the court will issue a temporary injunction that lays down a set of rules for conduct during the proceedings. This consists of a set of restraints against various activities such as transfer of marital property or removing a minor child from the state without informing the other party. However, an expanded temporary injunction can be applied for by either the husband or the wife depnding on the circumstances.

Hiring a Colorado Divorce Lawyer

This is probably the most important step to take when initiating a Colorado Divorce. In cases of contested divorce, you can be sure that your spouse will be hiring an attorney and unless you do the same, you could find your interests severely compromised due to the many legalities and loopholes involved. Our Clawson & Clawson attorneys will make sure that your rights are protected and will spare no effort to ensure a just and equitable outcome for you. Contact us for a free initial consultation.