Divorce is more than just a legal separation—it’s a period of transition that can bring emotional and financial uncertainty. What happens with your kids? Who lives where? How are bills paid? These pressing questions don’t wait until the divorce is finalized. That’s where temporary divorce orders come in.

In Colorado, temporary orders can shape the day-to-day of your life during divorce proceedings. Whether you’re concerned about parenting time, spousal support, or who gets the family home—for now—understanding how these orders work is essential.

At Alexander & Associates, our experienced divorce attorneys in Fort Collins are here to guide you through each phase of your case, starting with temporary orders that protect your rights and stabilize your life.

TL;DR:

Temporary divorce orders in Colorado help establish financial, custodial, and property arrangements while your case is pending. Learn what they are, when you need one, and how a Fort Collins attorney can help

What’s a Temporary Divorce Order?

A temporary order is a legal directive issued by a judge to establish short-term rules for spouses while a divorce is ongoing. These are not final decisions—they’re stopgap measures designed to keep things fair and functional until the court finalizes the divorce.

Temporary orders can address:

• Parenting time and decision-making
• Child support and spousal maintenance
• Possession of the marital home
• Payment of shared expenses like rent, utilities, or insurance
• Use of shared vehicles or bank accounts

For many families, these orders provide much-needed structure during a time of major upheaval. They help prevent conflict and clarify responsibilities so that both parties—and any children involved—can navigate the process with more security.

When Do You Know You Need a Temporary Order

While not every case requires temporary orders, many do—especially if the divorce is contested or if one spouse is financially dependent on the other. You might consider filing for a temporary order if:

• One parent is denying access to the children
• Your spouse moved out and left you without financial support
• There is conflict over who stays in the family home
• You’re unsure how to divide shared expenses while the divorce is pending
• You need formal child support or maintenance established immediately

You don’t have to wait for your final divorce decree to resolve these issues. In fact, waiting too long can put you—or your children—at a disadvantage.

Colorado courts can schedule a temporary orders hearing relatively early in the case. There, both parties can present evidence and argue for fair, short-term arrangements until the final judgment is made.

Common Temporary Orders in Colorado

In Colorado, temporary orders can vary depending on your family’s needs, but the most common ones address the following:

Parenting Responsibilities (Custody)

Temporary parenting plans define where the children will live, who will make decisions for them, and how visitation will work. The court always evaluates these decisions through the lens of the child’s best interest.

Child Support

A judge can order temporary child support based on both parents’ incomes and the number of overnights each parent has with the child. Colorado uses a specific formula, but deviations can occur in certain situations.

Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)

Temporary spousal support may be awarded if one spouse is financially dependent on the other. This support is meant to maintain stability until long-term arrangements are decided.

Housing and Possession of Property

Temporary orders can determine who stays in the marital home and who has access to shared property, such as vehicles or business assets. This helps avoid conflict or the risk of one party taking control unfairly.

Bill and Debt Payment

These orders may assign responsibility for rent, mortgage payments, utility bills, health insurance, and debt repayment. The goal is to prevent financial hardship during the legal process.

Each of these issues can be legally complex, and judges often rely on documentation, financial disclosures, and affidavits to make temporary rulings. That’s why working with a Fort Collins attorney experienced in modern family law is so important.

How Can an Attorney Help You Through This Process

The temporary orders phase often sets the tone for the rest of your divorce. Missteps early on can lead to long-term consequences—especially if one party gains a strategic advantage.

Here’s how the team at Alexander & Associates supports clients through this critical stage:

Legal Strategy and Guidance

We help you determine which temporary orders are necessary and prepare a strong argument for what’s fair—legally and emotionally.

Evidence Preparation

We assist with collecting income documentation, parenting records, expense statements, and other materials to support your case.

Representation at Hearings

We advocate for your rights in front of the judge during the temporary orders hearing, whether that involves spousal support, parenting time, or financial concerns.

Negotiation and Mediation Support

If both parties are willing to work together, we can help negotiate a temporary agreement without court intervention—saving time, stress, and money.

At Alexander & Associates, we don’t just manage paperwork—we fight for practical solutions that give you peace of mind during every phase of your divorce.

Allow Yourself to Have Professional Guidance During Tough Times

Temporary orders can shape your financial and emotional well-being during divorce—and influence the final outcome. Whether you need to protect parenting time, secure support, or establish clarity in a chaotic time, getting it right from the beginning matters.

At Alexander & Associates, our experienced divorce attorneys in Fort Collins combine deep legal knowledge with compassionate, real-world guidance. We’ll help you understand your options, fight for your rights, and make sure your temporary orders lay a strong foundation for the road ahead.

Don’t navigate the divorce process alone—especially when temporary orders can impact your future. Contact Alexander & Associates today to speak with a trusted Fort Collins attorney and take the first step toward protecting your family and your future.