Denver Colorado Divorce Lawyer
Denver Divorce Attorneys
Colorado Divorce Introduction : The Colorado divorce lawyers at the Denver law firm of Watson & Associates, LLC focus on giving our family law clients high value commitment in our services. Our divorce attorneys can help you with virtually any Colorado family law, child custody, child support, paternity, divorce property or other family related problems. As Denver divorce lawyers, we can assist you in various family law aspects including:
In the actual divorce process can be simple or complicated depending on the issues and emotions involved. Our divorce lawyers ensure to minimize both. However, if you are unable to settle any issue, then litigation may be required.
Colorado Divorce Process
Requirements for Divorce: Generally, in order to file for divorce in Colorado, you must have resided for at least 90 days in the state. The Colorado Uniform Dissolution of Marriage Act changed the basis for divorce from fault to no fault. The grounds for divorce is now " irretrievable breakdown of the marriage".
The petition for dissolution must state the age, residence and length of residence in Colorado for each party to the divorce, the date and place that the marriage was entered into by the parties, ages and names of children of the marriage and a few other required details that our divorce lawyer will guide you in.
When filing for divorce the action should be filed where the respondent spouse resides or in the county where ther Petitioner resides if the respondent is served there
It is important to note that Colorado divorces are tried by a judge, sitting without a jury.
Legal Separation
A decree of legal separation does not terminate the marriage. The procees for the most part is the same as a divorce action. Don't mistakenly believe that the process is faster than a divorce because it simply is not.
Any Colorado divorce court, including Denver cannot enter a divorce decree until ninety days have passed since the court acquired jurisdiction over the respondent.
Do I need a Divorce Attorney?
Although you are not required by Colorado law to retain a divorce attorney, the family law courts have made it clear that a party who chooses to proceed without a lawyer will be given no preferential treatment. It is important to understand that the divorce procedure involves procedural rules and deadlines that you must understand. Therefore, retaining an attorney can be beneficial so as not to loose your rights for not knowing the rules.
As the divorce process starts, we ensure that you start addressing such things as child custody, marital property and child support. If you are going through a military divorce, we understand that there are unique rules that govern the military.
It is important to know that Colorado family law and divorce judges must decide on the above issues when ruling in divorce cases.
Divorce & Marital Property
All assets during a divorce are considered "marital" unless the property was owned prior to the marriage, or was recieved during the marriage by gift or inheritance. Any appreciation of value during the marriage is also considered marital property. Colorado divorce laws are very clear about this issue. Our Denver divorce lawyers ensure that we present your case to the divorce judge in a clear and concise manner. When you consult with our divorce attorneys, you should gather all of your current statements , appraisals or other documents that can prove values.
Critical & Concise Divorce Attorneys
Colorado divorce law can be sometimes stressful and complex. Our experienced family law and divorce attorney, Lorraine Stark brings 20 years of experience to your case. She has successfully litigated contested and uncontested divorce, child custody and other complex family law cases and can do the same for you.
Our divorce attorneys serve clients in Aurora, Centennial, Cherry Creek, Parker, Englewood, Thornton, Lakewood, Adams County, Jefferson County, Denver, Arapahoe and Douglas County and throughout the Denver metro areas.
Commonly Asked Questions about Colorado Divorce Laws
How does restraining orders paly a part in a divorce case?
After there is personal service in a divorce case, a temporary injuction automatically (by operation of law), restrains either party from transfering, encumbering, concealing or otherwise disposing of marital property. This means that after the divorce petition is filed, you can not disturb the peace, remove children from the state without prior consent of the court. You also cannot cancel or modify health insurance, auto life or homeowners insurance policies.
Does the other spouse have a say in the divorce proceeding?
Yes. When you file and serve the other spouse with a divorce complaint and summons, he or she must file and answer wwithin 20 days. Our Denver divorce lawyers ensure that our family law clients understand this strict rule. Failure to answer can be harmful to your rights.
Does my divorce attorney have to charge me for court appearances?
The answer is generally yes. Some judges require the parties and their divorce attorneys to attend a status conference with the court before the matter is set or heard for permanent orders. This is at the judge's discretion and not your divorce lawyer.
What about alternative dispute resolution?
Colorado rules authorize the use of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) in connection with family law and divorce proceedings. Apart from this requirement some divorce judges make it that scheduling orders require that the parties participate in mediation before any trial on the matter. Again, this is not the luxury of the lawyer.
We offer a free initial consultation for our divorce and family law cases. We also go to court prepared with case law and precedent to support your position. Contact us online today for a free confidential consultation or call (720) 941 7200.
Call Our Divorce Lawyers to Protect Your Rights
. Watson & Associates, LLC
1001 South Monaco Parkway, Ste 310
Denver Colorado, 80224
Call us at (720) 941-7200
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