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Step 2 - File

 

Filing a Case

 

You will learn:          

 

             1.  Which forms to file.
             2.  How to file.
             3.  How to give notice.

 

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1.  Forms

 

Forms Kit

 

A packet with all the basic forms you need.

 

Individual Forms

 

Filing Jointly - Skip Forms 3-5.
Filing Separately - Pick Form 4 or 5.

 

1.  Case Information Sheet - JDF 1000

 

2.  Petition for Separation - JDF 1101

 

3.  Summons for a Response - JDF 1102

 

4.  Return of Service - JDF 1102(b)

 

5.  Waiver of Service - JDF 1102(a)

 

6.  Fee Waiver Request - JDF 205 & 206   (Optional)

 

 

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Learn More  –  Filling Out Forms

 

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2.  Terms

 

Petitioner

 

The spouse who starts the case.

 

Respondent

 

The spouse who responds after a case is filed.

 

Filing Jointly

 

The spouses agree to start the case together.  This can save time and money.

 

Personal Service

 

Someone, not connected to the case, will formally deliver the starting paperwork on the Respondent.

 

 

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3.  File the Paperwork

 

File Where?

 

File in the District Court. 

  • There is a District Court in each Colorado county. 

 

File in the county where:

  • Your child has lived for the last 182 days.

 

  Court Finder Tool

 

File What?

 

Filing Jointly?
  • Case Information Sheet - JDF 1000
  • Petition - JDF 1101

 

Filing Separately?

 

What do I Pay?

 

To Start the Case
  • $230.  Or,
  • File a Motion to Waive Fees - JDF 205.
  • Note - Fees cannot be waived if E-Filing.

 

Per-Filing Fee
  • For electronic filings only.
  • $12 Convenience Fee.
  • $7.50+ Service Fee.

 

How do I File?

 

By Mail
  • Pay by check.

 

At the Courthouse
  • Pay with cash, check, or card. 
  • Check your Court for card types accepted.

 

By E-Filing
  • Set up an account.
  • Only available in some counties.
  • Pay by card.
  • You cannot waive fees if filing electronically.

 

 

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4.  Serve the Other Spouse

Skip this step if you are filing jointly.

 

You must formally deliver the paperwork to the other spouse.

  • Give the paperwork by Personal ServiceOr,
  • The other spouse can waive service. 

 

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Learn More  –  Personal Service

 

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5.  File the Return of Service

Skip this step if you are filing jointly.

 

File What?

 

If Personally Served:

 

If Respondent waives service:

 

File How?

 

Give to the Court by:
  • Mail
  • Deliver In-Person
  • E-File (where available)

 

 
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Next Steps

 

Next  –     Hearing Prep

 

Back  –    Case Basics

 

Go To  –     Case Overview