If you’re getting married in Colorado and thinking about a prenuptial agreement, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is: How much does a prenup cost? And it’s a fair question — especially when you’re already budgeting for a wedding, a honeymoon, and possibly a new home.

But here’s the thing most people don’t realize: the cost of a prenup isn’t just about dollars and cents. It’s also about what that money protects you from down the road. Let’s break down what you can expect to pay, what the pricing structures look like, and why a prenup might be one of the smartest financial decisions you make before tying the knot.

What’s the Typical Cost of a Prenup in Colorado?

In Colorado, the cost of a prenuptial agreement typically depends on the complexity of your financial situation, the attorney’s billing structure, and how much negotiation is involved.

On average:

• Hourly rate for a family law attorney: ~$350/hour
• Retainer required by many attorneys: $3,000–$5,000
• Flat fee options: $1,500–$5,000+

But let’s unpack what those numbers actually mean.

Hourly vs. Flat Fees: What’s the Difference?

When you’re shopping around for a prenup attorney, you’ll likely encounter two types of pricing models: hourly billing and flat fee arrangements.

Hourly Billing

This is the traditional model and the most common. The attorney charges you for the time they spend on your matter, including drafting, reviewing documents, emailing, and phone calls.

• Average hourly rate in Colorado: $350
• A simple prenup might take 5–10 hours (so around $1,750–$3,500)
• A more complex agreement could take 10–15+ hours, especially if there’s back-and-forth negotiation or more assets involved

Many attorneys require a retainer upfront — usually $3,000 to $5,000 — which acts like a deposit they bill against as they work. In many cases, the retainer is used up before the work is complete, requiring the client to pay more.

Flat Fee

Flat fee billing is increasingly popular — and not just for simple agreements. Many experienced attorneys offer flat fees for both simple and complex prenups. They’ve seen enough scenarios to accurately scope the work and price accordingly.

What makes flat fee billing attractive:

• Predictability: You know exactly what you’ll pay upfront.
• Efficiency: The attorney is incentivized to work efficiently without running up the clock.
• Alignment: Flat fees align the goals of the client and attorney — both parties focus on a quality agreement, not hours.

Flat fees in Colorado typically range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the level of complexity and how much negotiation is involved.

What Are You Really Paying For?

It’s easy to get sticker shock when you hear that a prenup could cost $3,000 or more. But here’s what you’re actually paying for:

✅ Legal Protection

A prenup isn’t just a Word document that says “you keep your stuff, I keep mine.” To be enforceable in Colorado, it must meet specific legal requirements, including full disclosure, fairness, and adequate time for review. A seasoned attorney ensures your agreement won’t get tossed out in court later.

✅ Peace of Mind

If you’re entering a marriage with assets, business interests, or family inheritances, a prenup helps both parties start the marriage with transparency and understanding. It can actually reduce future conflict and establish trust by setting expectations early.

✅ Financial Planning

Your attorney often acts as a financial translator — helping you and your future spouse clarify how you’ll handle money, debt, and future earnings. This kind of conversation before marriage can prevent major disagreements during marriage.

✅ Avoiding Future Costs

Let’s be real — divorce is expensive. According to industry estimates, a divorce in Colorado without children involved can cost $15,000–$20,000 per person. That’s per person — not per couple. If a prenup can prevent or simplify those proceedings, the upfront cost might save you tens of thousands later on.

When a Prenup Costs More Than Money

It’s worth pointing out that prenups often come with emotional costs, too. Some people feel uneasy bringing up the topic. But here’s a reframing that can help:

Think of a prenup like an insurance policy. You hope you never need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad it’s there.

And just like with insurance, you’re not paying for the paper. You’re paying for the protection and clarity it brings.

Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

If you’re considering a prenup in Colorado, expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on your needs and whether you’re billed hourly or via a flat fee. But that cost isn’t just about drafting a document — it’s about protecting your future, your finances, and your peace of mind.

In a state where divorce can run upwards of $20,000 per person, investing in a well-crafted prenup is not only financially savvy, it might be one of the most protective and empowering steps you take before saying “I do.”

Ready to Talk About a Prenup?

If you’re thinking about a prenuptial agreement and want real, personalized guidance — not just boilerplate templates — we’re here to help. At Lester Law, we specialize in helping couples create clear, fair, and enforceable prenups that protect what matters most.

Schedule a call today to get your questions answered and take the next step with confidence.

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This website includes information about legal issues. Such materials are for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current legal developments. These informational materials are not intended, and should not be taken, as legal advice on any particular set of facts or circumstances. You should contact an attorney for advice on your specific legal problems.