08/21/2026
Only 1 in 4 domestic relations cases in Colorado have legal help on both sides of the case, meaning at least one party is representing themselves in 75% of cases.
With that in mind here are our top three tips for any pro se party:
1.) Find help where you can - If you can't afford an attorney look to legitimate non-profit organizations like Colorado Legal Services or the family law clinics at DU or CU law schools for pro bono representation. It is also worthwhile to reach out to for-profit firms you trust and ask about sliding scale or pro-bono programs they have as the Colorado Bar Association recommends all attorneys complete some pro-bono work every year. At the very least many courts have self-help desks that can't give you legal advice, but can help you with questions on the procedure involved in the case.
2.) Don't rely on the judge for help - If you are representing yourself do not expect the judge to handle things for you. In Colorado the law requires a judge to treat a pro se party the same as a licensed attorney, so if you are pro se you need to do your best to learn the applicable process, rules, and laws, to the best of your ability.
3.) Read everything from the Court and the opposing attorney/party right away - Domestic cases in Colorado are filled with nonintuitive deadlines and procedural requirements, some of which are spelled out in procedural orders. Be sure you keep yourself up to date on what has been issued/filed, what those filings say and require, and ask for help when you have questions.