A divorce decree is a legal document signed by the judge that officially terminates the marriage. The divorce decree typically includes the judge’s ruling on all matters related to the marriage and any minor children—including division of marital or community property, payment of marital or community debts, spousal support, child custody, child visitation, child support, any obligation to provide health insurance for minor children, and the payment of extracurricular expenses for minor children.

These determinations or rulings set forth in the divorce decree become legally enforceable obligations when the judge signs the divorce decree—and may be enforced by further legal action in the court if one or both of the former spouses fail to comply with the terms of the divorce decree.

In Colorado, a divorce decree is the final order that concludes the divorce process and dissolves the marriage. This legal document is issued by a judge and includes the court's decisions on all pertinent issues such as the division of marital property and debts, alimony (also known as spousal support or maintenance), and matters concerning minor children like custody, visitation rights, child support, health insurance provisions, and payment for extracurricular activities. Once the judge signs the divorce decree, the terms outlined become enforceable legal obligations. If either party fails to adhere to these terms, the other party can seek enforcement through the courts. This may involve filing a motion for contempt or other legal remedies to ensure compliance with the divorce decree. Colorado law governs the specifics of how these matters are determined and enforced, taking into account state statutes and case law.