What Is an RFO In Family Law?

Key Takeaways

• An RFO is a formal filing requesting court orders or modifications in an ongoing case.
• An RFO was previously called an order to show cause.
• After filing, the court schedules a hearing where parties present arguments and evidence.
• An RFO may request temporary or permanent orders in family law matters.
• Filing requires correct forms and proper service on the opposing party.

In Colorado, an RFO in family law, short for Request for Order, works as a formal filing that asks the court to make or modify orders in an ongoing case. At The Law Office of Stephen Vertucci, our Colorado family law attorneys commonly use RFOs to address child custody, parenting time, support, or enforcement of existing court orders.

Once filed, the court schedules a hearing where both parties present arguments and supporting evidence. RFOs often come into play when circumstances shift or when waiting for a final resolution simply isn’t an option.

Understanding an RFO In Colorado

An RFO in court stands for a request for orders. Previously, this was called an order to show cause (OSC). If any party involved in a family court case needs a judge’s action, they must request the action officially by submitting an RFO. Typical RFOs require filing a specific court form. An individual or their attorney may file RFOs such as the following:

• Requesting a child custody order before or during the divorce process
• Requesting specific properties during the division of marital property
• Requesting spousal support (alimony)
• Emergency protective order requests (restraining orders)
• Seeking a modification of existing orders
• Requesting a relocation with a child
• Requesting testing to establish paternity
• Requesting a contempt of court to be issued to a person in violation of a court order, such as for child support arrears

RFOs may request temporary actions, such as a temporary child custody request during the divorce process or a permanent parenting plan request.

The infographic below explains what a Request for Orders (RFO) is in Colorado family law and the types of requests it can be used for.

When Should I File an RFO In Colorado Family Court?

There are many reasons an individual or their attorney files an RFO in the Colorado court. For example, if a non-working spouse or a lower-earning spouse faces immediate financial hardship during the separation and divorce process. A Colorado divorce requires spouses to wait a minimum of 91 days after filing the divorce petition before a judge can issue the final orders for the dissolution of the marriage. If one spouse needs immediate financial relief, they may file an RFO requesting temporary spousal support. Then, as their divorce case reaches a settlement agreement or goes to court for a judge to decide on disputes, the lower-earning or non-earning spouse’s lawyer may file an RFO for permanent spousal support.

Similarly, divorcing parents may need an immediate order for a child custody arrangement, which they seek through an RFO. Then, their divorce process includes an RFO for a permanent parenting plan for child custody. Reach out to our child custody attorney in Fort Collins for assistance.

How Are RFOs Filed In Colorado?

Filing out a form to request a specific order from a Colorado court requires meticulous attention to detail. The person making the request or their lawyer must obtain the correct form and include all requested information. Then, they must file it in the courthouse of the individual’s jurisdiction, meeting any deadlines and other filing requirements. Depending on the type of form, a copy may also be served to a spouse. This is the case for most divorce-related RFOs, such as child custody requests and alimony orders.

An RFO formally requests a judge to issue many types of orders in the Colorado family court. Once a judge issues the order, it is legally enforceable through contempt of court charges if the subject fails or refuses to comply.

Steve Vertucci has dedicated his entire legal career to family law, helping clients through some of the most difficult times in their lives with thoughtful strategy and passionate advocacy.

What Does an RFO Actually Do in a Family Law Case

An RFO in family law gets things moving by giving the court a way to make sure everyone does what they’re supposed to. While Colorado Revised Statutes Title 14 sets the ground rules for how these cases work, an RFO is the tool you use to actually ask for help with things like temporary custody, money for support, or getting access to important info without having to wait for the very end of the case.

The JDF 347 Request for Order Requiring Disclosure of Information offers a concrete example of how Colorado courts use the RFO mechanism as an official court process for accessing confidential records when a family case requires it. For families navigating overlapping legal questions, our related resource on Child Support vs Custody: Key Differences Explained provides additional context on how Colorado courts treat these distinct but connected issues.

What Happens After You File an RFO in Colorado

After filing, the court assigns a case management timeline, and the opposing party receives proper notice, creating an opportunity to respond. The court schedules an Initial Status Conference where both parties address temporary orders, financial disclosures, and next steps.

Depending on the nature of the request, both parties may need to exchange financial disclosures and file a formal response within set deadlines. Delays often stem from incomplete paperwork or improper service, so accuracy at the filing stage directly affects how quickly a judge reviews the matter.

What to Expect at an RFO Hearing

During the hearing, both sides present arguments, evidence, and witnesses. The judge then evaluates these against Colorado legal standards to grant, modify, or deny the request. Success depends on preparation; arriving with organized records and a clear understanding of the court procedures is essential for a favorable outcome.

If your hearing involves parental responsibilities, our resource on What Are the Differences Between Custody and Legal Guardianship? helps clarify how Colorado courts distinguish between these roles before making a ruling.

Taking Action in Family Court Starts with the Right Filing—Get Guidance from a Colorado Family Law Attorney

Filing an RFO can be a critical step when you need to request or modify a court order, especially in matters involving custody, support, or enforcement. Understanding how and when to take action can help you avoid delays and ensure your concerns are properly presented to the court.

Speaking with The Law Office of Stephen Vertucci, LLC can help you evaluate your options and move forward with clarity. To discuss your situation and understand the next steps, call (970) 598-0817 today.

Stephen Vertucci

Founding Attorney

Steve focuses exclusively on family law and brings over a decade of litigation experience to every case. He’s known for providing thoughtful strategies and passionate advocacy in high-conflict divorce and custody matters.