How Much Does Divorce Cost in Denver, CO (2025 Guide)

The cost of divorce in Denver varies depending on whether your case is cooperative or contested. Many couples complete an uncontested divorce for less than $1,000, while those involving custody or property disputes can exceed $25,000. This guide breaks down the Denver divorce filing fee, typical attorney and mediation costs, and how asset division and custody issues affect total expenses—plus how to start your Colorado divorce online for less.

Average Divorce Costs in Denver

Denver Divorce Filing Fee

To begin a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in Denver District Court, expect to pay about $230–$240 in filing fees as of 2025.

Other potential expenses:

• Response filing: $116–$130.

• Service of process: $35–$80 depending on delivery method.

• Certified copies: around $10 each.

If you can’t afford court fees, you may apply for a fee waiver (Form JDF 205) through the Colorado Judicial Department.

Denver Divorce Attorney Cost

Attorney fees in Denver depend on complexity, assets, and whether the case goes to trial.

• Hourly rate: $275–$500/hour.

• Retainers: $3,000–$8,000 for contested cases.

• Flat-fee uncontested divorce: $800–$1,800.

Cost-saving tips

• Finalize agreements before hiring a lawyer for review only.

• Use limited-scope representation to avoid full retainers.

• Start online at https://go.divorce.com/s/start for affordable guided filing.

Denver Uncontested Divorce Cost

An uncontested divorce is the simplest path when both spouses agree on key issues like property, custody, and support.

Typical Denver uncontested divorce cost: $500–$2,000 including filing fees.
Most couples complete the process in 60–90 days, depending on court scheduling.

✅ Start your Denver divorce online now at https://go.divorce.com/s/start
Divorce.com offers step-by-step guidance, Colorado-specific forms, and optional attorney review—no hourly billing required.

Denver Divorce Mediation Cost

Mediation helps couples reach agreement outside of court with a neutral third party.

Typical Denver divorce mediation cost:

• Hourly rate: $250–$400/hour.

• Half-day session: $800–$1,200.

• Full-day session: $1,500–$2,500.

Most couples need 2–3 sessions, bringing total costs to about $2,000–$6,500—far less than contested litigation.

Denver Contested Divorce Cost

If you and your spouse can’t agree on custody, finances, or assets, costs rise quickly.
Typical Denver contested divorce cost: $10,000–$30,000+.

Factors driving costs:

• Multiple hearings and motions.

• Expert witnesses or appraisers.

• Custody evaluations and financial discovery.

Contested divorces often take 6–18 months or more to finalize.

Denver Asset Division Cost

Colorado is an equitable distribution state, meaning assets are divided fairly, not necessarily equally.

Typical Denver asset division costs:

• Home appraisal: $400–$900.

• Business valuation: $5,000–$10,000+.

• QDRO for retirement plans: $300–$600.

• Forensic accountant: $150–$300/hour.

Couples who agree on valuations or use one neutral expert save thousands in fees.

Denver Custody Dispute Cost

Custody conflicts can significantly raise costs due to added evaluations and court time.

Typical Denver custody dispute costs:

• Child & Family Investigator (CFI): $2,500–$5,000+.

• Parenting coordinator: $1,000–$3,000+.

• Therapist or evaluator: varies $150–$300/hour.

Denver courts often require parenting classes and encourage mediation before a custody trial.

Divorce.com vs. Traditional Divorce in Denver

Typical Denver Divorce Budget

FAQs

Can I file for divorce in Denver without a lawyer?
Yes. Colorado allows self-representation, and https://go.divorce.com/s/start provides guided forms and step-by-step filing support.

How long does a divorce take in Colorado?
Colorado requires a minimum 91-day waiting period from service or joint filing before a divorce can be finalized.

Is mediation required in Denver County?
Yes. Mediation is mandatory for custody and parenting disputes and encouraged for financial disagreements.

What is the cheapest way to get divorced in Denver?
An uncontested online divorce through https://go.divorce.com/s/start typically costs under $1,000 including the court fee.

Where do I file for divorce in Denver?
At the Denver District Court (1437 Bannock St) or via the Colorado Courts e-filing system.

The Bottom Line

The average cost of divorce in Denver ranges from $500 to $30,000+, depending on cooperation and complexity. Couples who use https://go.divorce.com/s/start can complete their divorce online, saving thousands in legal fees and months of stress.

👉 Begin your Denver divorce today at https://go.divorce.com/s/start — fast, affordable, and Colorado court–ready.