Divorce & Legal Separation Services
Understanding Your Options
When relationships reach a breaking point, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. Our experienced family law attorneys provide compassionate guidance through divorce and legal separation proceedings, helping you make informed decisions during this challenging time.
Divorce vs. Legal Separation: What's the Difference?
Divorce legally dissolves your marriage, allowing both parties to remarry. It addresses division of assets, debts, child custody, support arrangements, and completely terminates the legal relationship between spouses.
Legal separation, by contrast, maintains the marriage while allowing spouses to live separately with formal agreements regarding finances, property, and parenting responsibilities. Some couples choose separation for religious reasons, health insurance benefits, tax advantages, or as a step before deciding on divorce.
Our Comprehensive Divorce Services
Whether you're pursuing an uncontested or contested divorce, our attorneys provide strategic representation tailored to your unique circumstances. We help negotiate fair settlements while protecting your interests regarding:
Property division (including complex assets like businesses, investments, and retirement accounts)
Child custody and visitation arrangements
Child support calculations and enforcement
Spousal support/alimony determinations
Division of debts and liabilities
Post-divorce modifications when circumstances change
Legal Separation Services
For couples seeking legal separation, we facilitate formal agreements that establish clear boundaries and expectations while maintaining the marriage bond. Our attorneys draft comprehensive separation agreements covering:
Living arrangements and separate residences
Financial responsibilities and support obligations
Division of expenses and management of joint accounts
Child custody and visitation arrangements
Property use and access during separation
Health insurance and medical expense responsibilities
Client-Centered Approach
We recognize that each family situation is unique. Our attorneys take time to understand your specific concerns, priorities, and desired outcomes. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we pursue resolution strategies aligned with your goals while minimizing emotional and financial strain.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Many divorce and separation cases can be resolved without contentious courtroom battles. Our firm specializes in alternative dispute resolution methods including:
These approaches often result in more amicable outcomes, reduced costs, and greater privacy than traditional litigation.
When Litigation Is Necessary
While we emphasize negotiated settlements whenever possible, our attorneys are prepared to vigorously advocate for your interests in court when necessary. Our litigation experience ensures strong representation in contested matters involving:
Complex property division disputes
High-conflict custody cases
Hidden assets or financial misconduct
Domestic violence or abuse allegations
Parental relocation issues
Support Through Every Stage
From initial consultation through final resolution, our attorneys provide steady guidance and responsive communication. We explain legal concepts in plain language, offer realistic expectations about outcomes, and keep you informed about developments in your case.
Common Questions About Divorce & Legal Separation
How long does divorce take? Timeframes vary based on case complexity, court schedules, and whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Uncontested divorces may be completed within months, while contested cases can take a year or longer.
How is property divided? Property division follows either "equitable division" or "community property" principles and in Colorado we are an “equitable division” state, meaning property is divided according to what is “fair”. Our attorneys work to ensure fair distribution according to applicable laws.
Can legal separation be converted to divorce? Yes, legal separation can later be converted to divorce if reconciliation proves impossible or if circumstances change. The agreements established during separation often serve as foundations for final divorce terms.
How are custody decisions made? Courts prioritize children's best interests when determining custody arrangements, considering factors like the parents’ preferences, the wishes of the children (if sufficiently mature), the children’s adjustment to home, school and community, the health of the parents, etc.
Schedule a Consultation
Taking the first step toward resolving your marital situation can provide tremendous relief. Contact our office to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced family law attorney who will listen to your concerns and outline potential paths forward.
