How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Aurora, CO (Complete Step-by-Step Guide)

Divorcing without a lawyer in Aurora is absolutely possible — and for many couples, it’s the most affordable and straightforward way to dissolve a marriage. Colorado supports self-representation (“pro se” divorce), and both Arapahoe County and Adams County provide clear processes for completing an uncontested divorce without hiring an attorney.

This guide walks through the exact steps to complete your divorce without a lawyer in Aurora, including Colorado’s required forms, timelines, county filing fees, and situations when you may still want legal advice.

Can You Really Divorce Without a Lawyer in Aurora, CO?

Yes. Colorado allows anyone to file for divorce without an attorney.

A DIY divorce is best when:

• Your case is uncontested

• You and your spouse agree on property division, custody, and support

• You want to avoid higher attorney costs

• You prefer a simplified and guided process

• Your financial situation is straightforward

Most couples in Aurora with an uncontested divorce complete the entire process without hiring a lawyer.

How to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Aurora — Step by Step

1. Meet Colorado’s Residency Requirement

Before filing for divorce in Aurora, either spouse must have lived in Colorado:

• At least 91 days before filing

Once you meet this requirement, your case will be filed in either Arapahoe County or Adams County, depending on your exact address.

2. Gather Required Colorado Divorce Forms

Colorado offers standardized statewide forms that apply in both counties.

Core Colorado Divorce Forms

Most Aurora cases require:

• JDF 1101 — Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

• JDF 1000 — Case Information Sheet

• JDF 1102 — Summons

• JDF 1111 — Sworn Financial Statement

• JDF 1111SS — Supporting Schedules

• JDF 1113 — Parenting Plan (if you have children)

• JDF 1115 — Separation Agreement

• JDF 1201 — Decree of Dissolution

Arapahoe & Adams County Local Requirements

Both counties follow the statewide forms but may add:

• Local procedural checklists

• Instructions on Initial Status Conferences (ISC)

• Courtroom assignment requirements

Divorce.com automatically assembles all required Colorado + county-specific forms based on your situation.

3. File Your Divorce Forms With the Correct County Court

Aurora spans two counties, so filing depends on your residence:

Arapahoe County District Court

7325 S. Potomac St.
Centennial, CO 80112

Adams County District Court

1100 Judicial Center Dr.
Brighton, CO 80601

Filing Fee

• Typically $230–$250

• Additional fees apply for copies or service of process

Fee waivers may be available for qualifying individuals.

4. Serve Your Spouse (Unless You File a Joint Petition)

If both spouses file together, no service is required.
Otherwise, you must legally serve your spouse.

Accepted service methods include:

• Sheriff’s office

• Licensed process server

• Waiver and Acceptance of Service (spouse signs)

Once served, file proof with the court.

5. Exchange Mandatory Financial Disclosures

Colorado requires full financial transparency.

Both spouses must exchange:

• Sworn Financial Statements

• Supporting Schedules

• Tax returns

• Income documentation

• Debt and asset details

• Retirement account records

This step is mandatory and must be completed before the divorce can be finalized.

6. Complete Your Separation Agreement

Your Separation Agreement should address:

• Property division

• Division of debts

• Parenting time and custody

• Child support

• Spousal support (maintenance)

• Health insurance and expenses

Colorado courts strongly favor agreements for uncontested divorces.

Divorce.com helps you create a complete, compliant agreement.

7. Attend Your Initial Status Conference (ISC)

Most Aurora divorces require an ISC within 42 days of filing.

This brief meeting:

• Ensures both spouses understand the process

• Provides scheduling information

• Confirms required forms

Some cases may qualify for an ISC waiver if paperwork is complete.

8. Colorado’s Mandatory Waiting Period

Colorado requires a 91-day waiting period starting from the date:

• Your spouse is served, or

• Both spouses file together

Your divorce cannot be finalized earlier than this under Colorado law.

9. Submit Final Documents & Finalize Your Divorce

Once the waiting period has passed and all forms are complete, you may submit:

• JDF 1201 — Decree of Dissolution

• Your Separation Agreement

• Parenting Plan (if applicable)

• Support worksheets

• Affidavit for Decree Without Appearance (if eligible)

Many uncontested divorces in Aurora are finalized without a hearing, though the judge may require one in certain cases.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Aurora?

Typical timelines:

• 3–6 months for most uncontested cases

• 91-day minimum due to state law

• Longer if forms are incomplete or financial disclosures are delayed

Cases with children often take slightly longer.

How Much Does It Cost to Divorce Without a Lawyer in Aurora?

Typical DIY costs:

• $230–$250 filing fee

• $0–$100 for service of process

• $0 if preparing forms yourself

• $499–$1999 using Divorce.com for forms + agreement

Attorney-led Colorado divorces commonly cost $10,000–$20,000+, making DIY divorce far more affordable.

When You Should Still Consider Hiring a Lawyer

Legal representation may be needed if:

• Domestic violence is involved

• A spouse is hiding assets or income

• You own complex property (business, real estate, investments)

• High-conflict custody issues exist

• One spouse refuses to cooperate

For simple, cooperative cases, most couples can complete the entire process themselves.

Why Aurora Couples Use Divorce.com

Divorce.com helps Colorado couples:

• Prepare all statewide + local forms

• Create a complete, court-ready Separation Agreement

• Avoid filing mistakes that delay cases

• Understand each step of the Colorado process

• Access optional attorney support if needed

It’s the most efficient and affordable way to divorce without a lawyer in Aurora.

Final Thoughts

Divorcing without a lawyer in Aurora is completely achievable — especially for couples with an uncontested case. With accurate forms, a clear Separation Agreement, and guided support, you can finalize your Colorado divorce confidently and affordably.

Divorce.com provides everything you need to file and complete your Aurora-based divorce from start to finish.