What if I Can’t Afford a Divorce?

If you’re considering a divorce, it’s normal to have tons of questions running through your head: what will this do to my family? Will I attain my goals? And, of course, what if I can’t afford a divorce? It’s no secret that a divorce can be expensive, but this should not be seen as a roadblock to achieving your family goals. 

If you don’t think you can afford a divorce, there are several options available to help. By working with an experienced Denver divorce attorney, they can help walk you through your options to find one that’s right for your financial situation. In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at what you can expect to pay for a divorce in Colorado and what your options are if you don’t think you can afford a divorce. 

Peek Vazquez Family Law is here to help you every step of the way. As one of Colorado’s most trusted family law firms, our team of Denver divorce attorneys has the compassion and experience to help you attain your family goals. In addition to divorce cases in Denver, our family law office also specializes in several other family law practice areas. These include alimony, child custody, adoptions, common law marriages in Colorado, and more. If you’re in need of a family law attorney you can trust, Peek Vasquez Family Law is here to provide support, guidance, and expertise when you need it most. 

How Much Does a Divorce in Colorado Cost? 

As one might expect, there is no exact answer here. Each divorce process is unique, which means that each will have its own cost. The cost of your divorce will depend on a variety of factors, including the attorney fees, any mediators, court fees, and the length of the divorce. Additionally, if you’re negotiating assets or factors like child custody or child support, the divorce may become more complex, and thus, often more expensive.

However, we can still identify a range. According to recent statistics, the average divorce in Colorado will cost between $9,000 and $11,000. This cost includes divorce attorney fees, filing fees, court fees, and any additional sundry costs.

Most spouses aren’t aware they have a lot of power when it comes to the price tag of their divorce. When each spouse can agree to divorce terms, the division of assets, and other factors, the divorce goes that much more smoothly, efficiently, and thus, more cost-effective. For example, when a couple pursues an uncontested divorce, odds are, the divorce costs will be significantly lower. As the saying goes, “time is money.” That’s why we do everything we can to help you achieve a fast and efficient divorce process. 

What if I Can’t Afford a Divorce?

As one might expect, costs are one of the top concerns for people considering a divorce. In fact, some individuals may hesitate to consider the idea because the financial burden seems too overwhelming. This is especially true if one spouse is the primary “breadwinner” while the other primarily focused on other priorities, such as raising the family.

But you should never let financial concerns prevent you from doing what’s right for your family. Most people may not realize it, but there are multiple methods for paying for a divorce—even if you don’t think you have the financial means to do so.

Think you can’t afford a divorce in Colorado? Consider these options:

1. File a Rose Motion: if you don’t think you can afford your divorce, you can ask your divorce attorney to file a Rose motion. In a groundbreaking 2006 case, the Colorado Court of Appeals declared that a trial court could award prospective attorney fees to a spouse if they are unable to afford their divorce costs. 

Essentially, this means that the court has the power to order one spouse (with more financial means) to provide the funds for the divorce. These funds may be used to partially or fully fund the entire divorce. Rose motions are set in place to ensure that the financial hardship of a divorce is split equitably between the two former spouses.

2. Request a court-appointed attorney: in some cases, you may be able to have an attorney appointed to you by the court free of charge. Generally, this is only an option if your divorce case involves issues pertaining to your constitutionally-protected rights, such as child custody or a restraining order. To receive a court-appointed attorney, you’ll have to provide proof of finances to show that you cannot afford an attorney. You should also be aware that a court-appointed attorney may not be able to represent you during every aspect of your divorce.

3. Explore a “pro bono” option: when a divorce lawyer represents you “pro bono,” it means they represent you for free. As you might expect, this is rare to come across. Most divorce attorneys you interview will not offer you to represent you “pro bono.” Instead, consider reaching out to your state’s bar association. They may be able to direct you to local legal aid service organizations that could take on your case.

4. Take out a loan: if you expect to receive a lump sum payment as a result of your divorce, like if you sell your joint home, then you could look into taking out a loan and simply borrowing against that expected payment. However, this can also be a risky option as you may not always receive the amount you initially expect. 

Conclusion – What if I Can’t Afford a Divorce?

It’s no secret divorces quickly become costly affairs. Court fees, filing fees, and attorney fees quickly stack up. As a result, some people may hesitate to pursue a divorce because they don’t think that they can afford it. 

But even though a divorce can be expensive (with the average divorce in Colorado ranging from $9,000 to $11,000), financial concerns should never block you from you pursuing the best interests for yourself and your family. If you don’t think you can afford a divorce, ask your Denver divorce attorney to file a Rose Motion on your behalf. You can also consider a “pro bono” lawyer, requesting a court-appointed lawyer, or taking out a personal loan.

While there may never be a “good” outcome for a divorce, we’re here to support you every step of the way and protect you and your family. You should never have to shoulder the burden of a divorce on your own. Work with Denver’s trusted family law attorneys to help you assess your options, determine the best course of action, negotiate on your behalf, and if needed, take your case to trial.

Contact us today at Peek Vasquez Family Law to learn more about how we can help you and your family. With an initial consultation, we can assess your options and set you on the path toward achieving your family goals.