Colorado Divorce Mediation Cost Calculator

Estimate sessions and total mediation cost in Colorado, with savings vs. a contested divorce.

Colorado divorces typically cost 26% less than the national average of $12,900.

Mediation in Colorado

Avg. cost per session
$275
Mediation required
Yes
Avg contested cost
$14,000 - $42,000
Equal parenting presumption
No

Mediation details

Locked to Colorado on this page.

Mediation type *
Number of issues to resolve *
Do you have children? *
Estimated number of sessions *
Are both parties willing participants? *

This estimate is for planning purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a licensed family law attorney in your state for guidance specific to your situation.

Mediation in Colorado - Frequently Asked Questions

How much does divorce mediation cost in Colorado?

Mediation in Colorado typically costs about $275 per session, with most cases requiring 3 to 10 sessions. That puts the typical full-mediation range at $825 to $2,750, usually split between both parties. Court-connected mediation programs in Colorado are often available at reduced rates, and some counties subsidize the first session.

Is mediation required in Colorado?

Yes. Colorado requires mediation before a contested divorce can proceed to trial. Most couples mediate at least once even if they ultimately litigate. Some judges order mediation on specific issues like custody before scheduling a hearing.

How long do mediation sessions last in Colorado?

Most mediation sessions in Colorado run 90 minutes to 2 hours. Full-day mediations (4 to 8 hours) are also common when both parties have attorneys present and want to settle multiple issues in one sitting. Per-session pricing covers the standard length; longer sessions are billed pro rata or at a higher full-day rate.

Do attorneys participate in Colorado mediation?

It depends on the format. Court-connected mediation in Colorado usually does not include attorneys at the table. Private mediation can be either attorney-assisted (each spouse brings counsel) or attorney-free. Even when attorneys are not present in the room, most mediating spouses have a consulting attorney review the proposed agreement before signing.

What if mediation does not resolve everything in Colorado?

Partial agreements still help. Colorado courts will accept a partial settlement and try only the remaining issues, which is faster and cheaper than litigating from scratch. Because Colorado requires mediation before a contested trial, even an unsuccessful round usually narrows the issues for the court.

This estimate is for planning purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Consult a licensed family law attorney in your state for guidance specific to your situation.