A Colorado divorce with children is usually more involved than a divorce without children. Both types of cases include paperwork about property, debts, financial disclosures, and final court orders. But when minor children are involved, the court also needs information about parenting time, decision-making, and child support.
That does not mean every divorce with children turns into a courtroom fight. It does mean the paperwork usually has more moving parts.
Divorce without children
When there are no minor children involved, the case usually focuses on ending the marriage and addressing financial issues. This includes property, debt, bank accounts, vehicles, retirement, spousal maintenance (also known as alimony), and final documents.
A divorce without children may still be stressful. People still need to understand what they are signing and how the final agreement affects them. But the court does not need a parenting schedule or child-related orders if there are no minor children involved.
Divorce with children
When a divorce involves minor children, the case includes child-related issues. This includes creating a parenting plan that includes a parenting schedule, addresses how major life decisions (such as where the children will attend school) will be made, and sets child support.
This is where many parents get nervous. They are not just filling out paperwork. They are thinking through school schedules, holidays, exchanges, expenses, communication, and the children’s day-to-day routine.
Why the difference matters
The difference matters because choosing the wrong path can cause confusion. A person without minor children does not need the same child-related guidance as a parent. A parent needs to think beyond simply ending the marriage and should understand how the court views parenting and support issues.
The right course, worksheet, or guide depends on your situation. A person with children should not rely on a “no children” explanation. A person without children should not get bogged down in child-related sections that do not apply.
Things parents should think about
- How the children will spend time with each parent
- How holidays and school breaks will be handled
- How major decisions will be made
- How the parents will communicate about the children
- How child-related expenses may be handled
- What happens if parents disagree later
Things people without minor children should think about
- How property and debt will be divided
- Whether maintenance is an issue
- Whether all financial information has been disclosed
- Whether agreements are clear and complete
- What final paperwork is needed before the court can finish the case
Colorado forms and procedures can change
Colorado court forms and procedures can change. Even if you handled a case years ago or found an old checklist online, you should make sure you are using current information from Colorado Judicial.
Choose the course that fits your situation
Colorado DIY Divorce Course has separate options, because divorce with children and divorce without children are not the same process.
If you have minor children, look at the DIY Divorce With Children course. If you do not have minor children, look at the DIY Divorce Without Children course.
Important note: This post is for general educational purposes only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Colorado court forms, procedures, and local court expectations can change.
Learn more about One Accord Legal, LLC and the Colorado DIY Divorce Course.