Frequently Asked Questions
HOW LONG WILL THIS TAKE?
Colorado law requires a 91-day waiting period between the date of filing the divorce and the date the decree is issued. Therefore, this is the minimum amount of time it will take. If your divorce is not contested, you may be able to get all of the paperwork completed and filed before that time expires. Read more about non-contested divorce here.
If your divorce is contested, the length of time it will take depends on many factors, including the number of issues, the complexity of your case, and the court’s docket. Plan for at least six to nine months, but up to one year, from the initial filing to the final hearing.
WHAT IS MEDIATION?
Mediation is a non-binding dispute resolution process. A neutral third party will help you and your ex to reach an agreement. To learn more about mediation, read my blog post here.
WILL I HAVE TO GO TO COURT?
Not necessarily. I have successfully negotiated numerous settlements for client. This can occur during an informal settlement conference between the parties and their attorneys, or during mediation. I highly recommend that clients make an effort to reach an agreement, unless the other side is abusive or unwilling to compromise.
HOW MUCH WILL THIS COST?
I offer a wide range of prices to fit your budget. If you do not believe you can afford an attorney, please ask me about unbundled services. Generally, a non-contested divorce costs between $2,500 and $5,000. A contested divorce that goes all the way to a full-day permanent orders hearing usually costs upward of $25,000 to $30,000. If your divorce is more complex (high assets, small business owner, or very high conflict), that number continues to increase.
You should discuss your concerns about finances with an attorney. A good family lawyer will help you craft your representation to fit your budget.
WHY SHOULD I HIRE YOU?
Choosing an attorney is an important decision. Ask for recommendations from family and friends, and interview an attorney (or several), to make sure you are comfortable.
As a family law attorney, I believe that divorce is painful enough without your attorney adding fuel to the fire. I want to help you chart a course out of your marriage in a way that promotes a peaceful future. Sometimes, the only way to do that is by establishing boundaries and letting a judge decide. Often, that means determining what is most important to you and negotiating to keep that.
Here are some things you should consider:
- Who will be your primary contact? Is it the attorney or shareholder you meet on the first day, an associate (younger) attorney, or a paralegal?
- What is the attorney’s style? Are you looking for a master negotiator, or someone who is extremely aggressive?
- Do you trust this attorney? Trust is like oxygen in the attorney-client relationship. If you have any concerns about whether you can trust someone you interview, keep looking.