Colorado divorce laws seek to provide a fair resolution for separating couples while protecting the best interests of any children involved. This includes dividing assets and debts, determining child custody, parenting time, and support amounts.
When filing for divorce in the state of Colorado, either spouse can initiate the process. Colorado is a no-fault divorce state, which means that the person filing does not have to prove fault or a reason for the divorce. A party must only claim irreconcilable differences.
Colorado has residency requirements that provide that either the petitioner or respondent must have lived in the state for at least 90 days at the time of filing. The divorce will be granted in the county where the respondent resides.
Separating spouses must exchange details regarding assets and debts to be divided. Colorado does not mandate an equal division of marital property and debts acquired during the marriage; however, many judges will do so. Retirement funds and pensions are also considered part of the marital estate if accumulated during the course of the marriage.
The court will determine custody and parenting time based on the best interests of any child involved. The court may order one parent to pay child support to the other until the children graduate from high school or become emancipated at age nineteen.
Many divorcees foregoing the opportunity to be represented by an attorney or not obtaining quality representation. Many law firms offer unbundled legal services in which a client can limit the amount of attorney’s fees; the attorney may be at the ready to provide legal advice and strategy, but not actively engage in the case.
There are numerous important factors to consider before choosing a divorce lawyer to represent you in court. Consider the lawyer’s experience in divorce and family law cases. An experienced divorce lawyer will likely have settled similar cases and should know the likely outcome of different issues to save fruitlessly litigating some issues.
Another key factor is how well the lawyer understands your goals. A successful attorney will take the time to understand your priorities and what you hope to achieve from the divorce, then develop a legal strategy customized to your specific situation.
Finally, consider the lawyer’s personality. A lawyer you feel at ease with can make a material difference in the outcome of your case. You should feel comfortable with the lawyer and confident they will aggressively represent you in court.
In summary, experience, success rate, client focus, communication, and personality fit are some of the most vital factors to consider when choosing a divorce lawyer. Taking the time to find the best lawyer for your situation can help you negotiate the most favorable settlement.
If you have any questions about divorce laws in the state of Colorado, Law One has the answers. Our team has no shortage of family law experience, so we’ll be able to help you through your case. To get in touch with the Law One team or set up a free consultation, call (303) 831-8313.
