Flat-Rate Divorce In Colorado

Affordable, Attorney-Guided Divorce in Colorado Springs

Divorce is often associated with high costs and complex legal processes, but it does not have to be that way. If you and your spouse are in agreement on the key aspects of your separation, a flat-rate divorce provides a more affordable and efficient alternative to traditional full-priced divorce in Colorado.

With a flat-rate divorce, you receive professional legal guidance without the high costs of full representation. This option is perfect for individuals who want to navigate the divorce process efficiently while still benefiting from the expertise of an attorney.

What is a Flat-Rate Divorce?

A flat-rate divorce is a fixed-cost legal service where an attorney provides essential legal assistance for a predetermined fee. This structure eliminates the uncertainty of escalating legal bills and provides peace of mind, knowing exactly what to expect financially.

This cost-effective solution is best suited for uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on major aspects of the separation, such as:

• Division of assets and debts
• Child custody and parenting time
• Child support and spousal maintenance (if applicable)
• Distribution of marital property and financial obligations

By choosing a flat-rate divorce, couples in Colorado Springs can avoid the unpredictability of hourly billing while ensuring their legal rights and interests are protected.

How Much Does a Flat-Rate Divorce Cost?

Compared to the average Colorado divorce cost of $10,000 – $15,000, a flat-rate divorce offers significant savings.

• Initial Consultation: $145 (to review your case and discuss your options)
• Flat-Rate Divorce Fees: Typically $1,000 – $1,500, with more complex cases reaching up to $3,000

This means that if you and your spouse are willing to do some of the groundwork, a flat-rate, attorney-guided divorce can save you thousands of dollars while ensuring a smooth legal process.

How the Flat-Rate Divorce Process Works

Step 1: Schedule an Initial Consultation

The process begins with a 30-minute consultation via Zoom or phone with Colorado Springs Divorce Attorney Mary Daugherty. During this session, you will:

• Receive an overview of Colorado divorce laws
• Learn about the necessary legal forms and steps involved
• Discuss your situation and determine the best path forward
• Get answers to any legal questions regarding your divorce

If you choose to involve your spouse, they may join the consultation for the final 10 minutes, or the attorney can follow up separately with them after you sign the contract.

Step 2: Sign the Contract and Pay the Retainer

Once you decide to proceed, you will sign an attorney agreement and pay a flat-rate retainer (typically $1,000). This fee covers the majority—if not all—of the legal work needed for your divorce.

With this structure, you represent yourself in court, but you receive professional legal guidance, document preparation, and step-by-step support throughout the process.

Step 3: Complete an Intake Form

To streamline the process, you will fill out an intake form outlining the key details of your divorce. The attorney will use this information to:

• Draft the necessary legal documents
• Ensure all court filings comply with Colorado state laws
• Help you prepare for the next steps in the divorce process

Step 4: E-File Your Divorce Papers

With your attorney’s guidance, you will electronically file your Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Colorado courts.

• E-filing eliminates the need for in-person court visits
• The 91-day waiting period required by Colorado law officially begins after filing
• Your attorney will provide clear instructions on completing and submitting all necessary paperwork

Step 5: Submit Financial Disclosures

Both spouses must disclose their financial information as part of the divorce process.

• Your attorney will provide a financial intake form
• They will draft your Sworn Financial Statement
• Your spouse will also receive the necessary blank forms and instructions for submission

This step ensures transparency and compliance with court requirements, allowing for a smoother and more efficient resolution.

Step 6: Drafting Your Separation Agreement & Parenting Plan

For divorces involving children, financial assets, or spousal maintenance, your attorney will:

• Draft a customized Separation Agreement
• Create a Parenting Plan (if minor children are involved)
• Calculate spousal maintenance and child support (if applicable)

Your attorney will provide tailored legal advice, suggest beneficial provisions, and ensure that your agreement meets court standards. After reviewing the final draft, you will have the opportunity to negotiate the final terms remotely with your spouse.

Step 7: Finalizing and Filing Divorce Paperwork

Once you and your spouse have agreed to all terms, the attorney will provide:

• A fully completed Separation Agreement and/or Parenting Plan
• Any additional final divorce paperwork
• Instructions for signing, scanning, and e-filing your documents

Most clients finalize this step remotely, eliminating the need for in-person meetings or court appearances.

Step 8: Judge’s Review and Finalization of Your Divorce

After filing your completed divorce paperwork:

• If no children are involved, you may request a judge’s approval without a hearing
• If children are involved, a short uncontested hearing may be required to review the Parenting Plan

Once the judge signs the final divorce decree, your marriage is officially dissolved. If you need assistance with a legal name change, your attorney will guide you through the necessary steps to update your official documents.

Why Choose a Flat-Rate Divorce in Colorado Springs?

A flat-rate divorce offers numerous benefits, including:

• Significant Cost Savings – Avoid the high costs of traditional attorney fees
• Simplified Process – No lengthy court battles, just a streamlined legal process
• Remote Convenience – No need for in-person meetings or court visits
• Personalized Legal Guidance – Tailored advice from an experienced Colorado divorce attorney
• Faster Resolution – Get through the divorce process as efficiently as possible