Question 1

How long does a divorce take in Centennial/Arapahoe County?

Accepted Answer

Colorado requires a minimum 91-day waiting period, running from when the court gains jurisdiction over the other spouse through service or appearance—not the filing date—before a divorce can be finalized. In Arapahoe County, an uncontested divorce typically takes 3-4 months, while a contested divorce can take 6-18 months depending on the complexity of property division, custody disputes, and court scheduling. Our Centennial family law attorneys work to resolve cases efficiently while protecting your interests.

Question 2

How is child custody decided in Centennial, Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Colorado uses the term 'allocation of parental responsibilities' rather than 'custody.' Arapahoe County judges consider the best interests of the child, evaluating factors including each parent's relationship with the child, the child's adjustment to home and school, each parent's ability to encourage the child's relationship with the other parent, the physical and mental health of all parties, and any history of domestic violence. Our attorneys help present the strongest case for your parenting rights.

Question 3

How is child support calculated in Colorado?

Accepted Answer

Colorado uses an income-shares model that considers the parents' combined adjusted gross income, the number of overnights each parent has, work-related childcare costs, health insurance premiums for the children, and extraordinary expenses. The court uses standardized guidelines, but deviations are possible when the standard calculation would be inequitable. Our Centennial family law attorneys ensure all relevant income and expenses are properly accounted for.

Question 4

Is Colorado a 50/50 property division state?

Accepted Answer

Colorado is an 'equitable distribution' state, not a community property state. This means marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily 50/50. Arapahoe County judges consider each spouse's contributions (including homemaking), the economic circumstances of each spouse, increases or decreases in marital property value, and any depletion of marital assets. Separate property (owned before marriage or received as gifts/inheritance) is generally not divided.

Question 5

How much does a family law attorney cost in Centennial?

Accepted Answer

Centennial family law attorney fees vary based on case complexity. Uncontested divorces typically range from $2,500-$5,000, while contested divorces may range from $5,000-$25,000+. Custody disputes, high-asset divorces, and cases requiring expert witnesses cost more. We offer transparent billing, free initial consultations, and payment plan options to make quality legal representation accessible.

Question 6

Can I modify a custody order in Arapahoe County?

Accepted Answer

Yes, custody (parental responsibility) orders can be modified in Arapahoe County if there has been a substantial and continuing change in circumstances. Common grounds include relocation, changes in the child's needs, a parent's change in work schedule, substance abuse issues, or domestic violence. For a change that would move the child's majority-time residence to the other parent, you must generally wait at least two years after the prior order unless the child's safety is at risk or the parent the child lives with is relocating. Our attorneys help determine if modification is warranted and guide you through the Arapahoe County process.

Centennial Family Law Attorney — Compassionate Advocacy for Your Family

Why Centennial Families Choose Us

30+ Years Experience

Compassionate Approach

Child-Focused

Asset Protection

Centennial Family Law Services

Centennial Divorce Attorney

Centennial Child Custody

Centennial Child Support

Centennial Spousal Maintenance

Centennial Property Division

Centennial Prenuptial Agreements

Centennial Family Law FAQs

Related Legal Resources

Protect Your Family's Future in Centennial