In this blog, we’re taking a closer look into the world of family law and the different types of cases that can be handled by a family law attorney. If your family is facing a legal issue, remember that you’re not alone. Family law attorneys have the experience, resources, and empathy to navigate your family through these difficult times. 

Peek Vasquez Family Law is your trusted Denver family law firm. Our experienced and compassionate divorce attorneys can help you navigate any legal issues affecting your family. In addition to representing Denver divorce cases, our legal team also specializes in different types of family law cases, including adoptions, alimony, common law marriages, child custody, and more. If you’re in need of representation for a family law issue, Peek Vasquez Family Law is here to ensure your rights are protected. 

What is Family Law?

Family law is a specific area of legal practice that focuses on cases involving family relationships. Many of the most common family law cases include adoption, divorce, child support, alimony, and more. Family law attorneys have specific experience representing these cases and negotiating on their client’s behalf. They can also support their clients by drafting critical legal documents, such as a court petition, when engaged in a family law case. 

Certain family law offices may specialize in unique aspects of this field. For example, some may focus on child-related cases, such as adoption, paternity, or emancipation. Other family law attorneys may focus specifically on divorce cases. If your family is facing a legal dispute that could alter the relationships within your family, you may need to call on the assistance of a family law attorney. 

What are the Different Cases Common in Family Law?

While we know that Denver divorce lawyer can certainly represent you in a divorce case, usually these attorneys can do even more. An experienced family law office will be able to represent many different types of cases. Essentially, almost any type of legal case that involves the relationships within a family will fall under the umbrella of “family law.”

Some of the most common types of family law cases include:

1. Divorce: every divorce is unique—just like the needs of every family. When you work with a Denver divorce attorney, they will inform you of your rights throughout every stage of the entire divorce process. From the initial filing to the finalization, a divorce lawyer will be at your side and assist you and your family through the process to hopefully reach an optimal resolution that benefits all parties involved. Whether pursuing a collaborative divorce, uncontested divorce, contested divorce, or a dissolution, these family law experts can improve your chances of receiving a favorable outcome.

2. Child custody: if you have children and you’re entering a divorce or marriage dissolution, their interests must come first. Determining child custody can be a tricky process, but a family law attorney can guide you through the process and ensure that your rights as a parent are protected.

3. Child support: in the event of a divorce or legal separation, child support is a common issue that needs to be addressed. Colorado courts operate under the assumption that children have the legal right to be financially supported by both of their parents. If one parent is no longer residing with them, they still must provide this support. In the event of a divorce or dissolution, courts will require that parents must financially support any children, as long as they are a minor, from the marriage.

4. Alimony: also known as spousal maintenance in Colorado, alimony is the financial support a spouse pays to a dependent spouse following a divorce or dissolution. Determining the amount of alimony takes many factors into consideration, including age, income, length of the marriage, and more. The court may award spousal support to a dependent spouse for a specific amount of time depending on these factors.

5. Adoption: the decision to adopt a child can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. However, there are many legal concerns to be aware of before a successful adoption can be finalized.

6. Common law marriage in Colorado: a common law marriage is a union between two adults where they may have not purchased a marriage license or had a traditional marriage ceremony, but they are still recognized as married by the state. It’s important to note that common law marriages are not recognized in every state. In fact, only 10 states and DC recognize common law marriages and the rules that dictate common law marriages will vary from state to state.

7. Mediation: mediation and arbitration are two methods of alternative dispute resolution that a family law attorney can help lead and guide you through. While a trial may be inevitable for some divorce cases, it’s advisable for most to reach a conclusion during the negotiation phase. Having a family law attorney who can successfully negotiate your divorce or child custody case during mediation can save you time and money and lessen the emotional impact on the entire family.

8. Psychological parenting rights: the term “psychological parenting” refers to whoever looks after and cares for a young child in their early years. The psychological parent can take many different forms, such as an adoptive parent, foster parent, or any other non-biological parent. Generally, the psychological parent is someone who is deeply rooted in the child’s everyday life and makes decisions for the child as a biological parent would.

Conclusion – What is Family Law?

While many people think of visiting a lawyer’s office following a car accident or other type of personal injury, there are many reasons why you may need the assistance of an attorney. Family law is a specific legal field that handles cases related to the wellbeing of families. Whether you’re pursuing a divorce, adoption, child custody case, mediation, common law marriage, or any other legal issue concerning your family, you owe it to yourself to visit an experienced family law office. 

A family law attorney can help you understand your situation, set realistic goals, and improve your chances of protecting the rights of yourself and your family. The most successful family lawyers are not just experienced and dedicated. They also have the empathy and compassion to effectively represent these delicate cases. 

Contact us today at Peek Vasquez Family Law to learn more about how we can help you and your family. With our initial consultation, we can assess your options from a legal standpoint and set you on the best path toward achieving your family goals.

The post What is Family Law? appeared first on Peek Family Law, LLC.

But it isn’t always easy finding the right divorce lawyer. In this blog, we’re offering some practical tips to help you find the right divorce attorney for your specific needs and goals. By finding the right divorce attorney for your case, you can save both time, money, and increase your chances of attaining your goals. 

Peek Vasquez Family Law is your trusted Denver family law firm. Our experienced, compassionate, and dedicated divorce attorneys will assist you in navigating your divorce and help you achieve your goals. In addition to Denver divorce cases, our legal office also specializes in a variety of family law practice areas. These include child custody, alimony, adoptions, and common law marriages. If you’re in need of a family law office you can trust, Peek Vasquez Family Law is here to ensure that your rights are protected. 

Do I Need to Hire a Divorce Attorney?

During a divorce, taking the time to find a divorce attorney might seem like the last thing you have time to accomplish. With the additional fees involved in hiring a divorce lawyer, you may also consider handling your own divorce without legal representation. While it is true that you can pursue a divorce without an attorney, most legal experts would recommend that you never enter a divorce without the support of an experienced divorce lawyer.

What can a divorce attorney do for your case? First, they’ll assess the specifics of your case via an initial consultation. No two divorces are the exact same. A qualified divorce attorney in Denver  will recognize this and help you navigate the unique circumstances of your situation. For example, a divorce involving child support and child custody will be inherently different and require a lawyer with experience representing these kinds of cases. A divorce attorney will also help you file all the necessary divorce paperwork and keep you on track with any important deadlines that could influence the outcome of your case.

In many cases, a divorce is settled out of court during the negotiations phase. Your divorce attorney will represent you in this phase and handle all the negotiations with other lawyers on your behalf. But if your divorce does go to trial, they can also help by handling all the pre-trial preparation. They’ll perform extensive research pertaining to the laws applying to your unique situation. If your case goes to trial, they will also represent you in court, ensuring you have the best chance of success in your divorce. 

5 Steps to Find the Right Divorce Attorney for Your Case

With a quick online search, you’re sure to find more than a few qualified family law offices in your area. So how do you know which one is right for your divorce case? Keep reading for some useful tips designed to help you find the right Denver divorce attorney:

1. Know what you want: what do you hope to achieve from your divorce? Every spouse will have unique goals and things they want. For example, if your divorce involves child custody, you’ll want a family law attorney with experience in custody cases. If assets are the primary focus of the divorce, you can veer toward an attorney with this particular skillset. Narrowing down which divorce lawyers will work for you based on your goals is an important early step.
2. Set realistic, attainable goals: while some parties may enter into a divorce simply wanting everything, it’s important to realize that this usually is not the end result. By setting realistic goals, you can better prepare yourself for the entire procedure. An experienced divorce attorney can help you set these realistic, attainable goals so that you have a better expectation for the final outcome.
3. Do your research: before agreeing to work with any divorce attorney, make sure you did adequate research first. An online search should show you the top family law attorneys in your area who could potentially represent your case. You can also browse their sites or call their offices to learn more about their experience and qualifications. This is also an ideal time to read client reviews. These reviews offer unique insight into what it’s like working with this attorney. While one or two negative reviews are to be expected, it’s definitely a red flag if there are far more negative than positive reviews.
4. Consult multiple attorneys: before hiring your divorce attorney, it’s not a bad idea to first consult a few local attorneys. This will allow you to draw comparisons between what each attorney can offer you. Think of this step like dating before marriage. Interviewing attorneys is also a great chance to assess their personal skills, communication habits, and overall level of professionalism that will be important as they undergo the divorce process on your behalf.
5. Ask the right questions: when consulting your potential family law attorneys, it’s helpful to know which questions to ask during the interview phase. When speaking with potential divorce lawyers, you may want to ask some of the following questions:

• Do you have experience handling similar cases?
• What is your success rate with these cases?
• Will you handle my case personally or pass it on to an associate?
• How often do you communicate with your clients?
• What are some realistic goals I can set?
• What timeline can I expect for this case? 

Conclusion – 5 Steps to Find the Right Divorce Attorney

Going through a divorce can be a time-consuming, stressfully, and emotionally fraught experience for anyone. Even in the best case scenario, such as an uncontested divorce, the process can be a challenge. That’s why it’s so important to enroll the aid of an experienced, qualified, and compassionate divorce attorney. These professionals can help you assess the specifics of your situation, set realistic goals, and negotiate on your behalf to help you receive the most favorable outcome. 

But it can be a process finding the right divorce attorney for your case. Take your time, do your research, and ensure you’re teaming up with a family law attorney who has experience representing cases similar to yours. Additionally, feel free to interview at least a handful of local divorce attorneys to find the right match. Be honest and upfront about your goals and about what you want. Open communication is key to improve your chances of attaining your goals in the divorce. 

Contact us today at Peek Vasquez Family Law to learn more about how we can be of service to you and your family. With our initial consultation, we can assess your options and set you on the best path toward achieving your family goals.

The post How to Find the Right Divorce Attorney appeared first on Peek Family Law, LLC.

In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at the potential costs that one can expect when pursuing a divorce in Colorado. By understanding the projected cost of a Denver divorce attorney, you can better prepare yourself for this undertaking. With all the stress and emotional trauma involved in many divorce cases, the last thing you need are surprise legal fees. 

Peek Vazquez Family Law is your trusted Colorado family law firm. Our experienced, compassionate, and dedicated Denver divorce attorneys can help you navigate your divorce and help you attain your family goals. In addition to divorce cases, our legal office also specializes in a variety of family law practice areas. These include child custody, alimony, adoptions, and common law marriages. If you’re in need of a family law attorney you can trust, Peek Vasquez Family Law is here to support you and ensure that your rights are protected. 

What Does a Divorce Attorney Do?

Before digging into potential costs, let’s start at the beginning. What does a divorce attorney actually do? And why is it important to hire one to represent your interests throughout a divorce? Essentially, a divorce lawyer represents their clients and their interests throughout the entirety of the divorce process. They’ll handle all the legal aspects of the divorce, such as gathering documents, ensuring you meet deadlines, and filing paperwork. They’ll also assess your case and circumstances to help you set realistic goals.

Essentially, the goal of a quality divorce attorney is to make this challenging and emotionally stressful experience as quick, efficient, and manageable as possible for their clients. While it may not always be easy, a good divorce attorney will leverage their legal knowledge and experience to help their clients achieve their family goals. In addition to utilizing their experience, you should look for a divorce attorney who will support you with compassion and empathy. Having a divorce attorney who cares about your needs and goals can make all the difference in a divorce.

A divorce lawyer will also represent you during negotiations. A successful negotiation takes both experience and skill, which is why you shouldn’t enter divorce negotiations alone without an experienced Denver divorce attorney in your corner. If your divorce cannot be successfully negotiated and requires a trial, your divorce attorney will also represent you in court. 

How Much Does a Divorce Attorney Cost?

When considering a divorce, there are a lot of factors to keep in mind. While it should never just be about costs, you also shouldn’t ignore the fees associated with a divorce. When preparing for a divorce, there are many expenses to account for, including filing fees, court fees, sundry costs, and your divorce attorney fees.

So, how much can you expect to pay when pursuing a divorce in Colorado? There is no simple answer. The cost of a divorce will be different for everyone and the overall costs will come down to a variety of different factors. These factors include the court fees, mediators, attorneys fees, and the overall length and complications of the divorce. As one might expect, a divorce becomes much more expensive the longer it drags out. That’s why having an experienced divorce attorney or mediator who can help the spouses see eye to eye on their differences is so essential for a successful (and affordable) divorce.

Even a straightforward case like an uncontested divorce will have costs. When assessing the potential cost of a divorce, it helps to go with the average. In Colorado, statistics reveal that the average cost of a divorce ranges between $9,000 to $11,000. This number accounts for the final cost and includes all associated fees that one could expect from a divorce proceeding. 

What if I Can’t Afford to Pay Divorce Attorney Fees?

Many individuals may be hesitant to pursue a divorce due to the costs. Luckily, there are laws in place designed specifically to make the financial burden of a divorce more equitable and fair between both of the spouses. Thus, if one spouse has primary control over the finances in their marriage, the courts may actually award prospective attorney fees. This means that one spouse with more financial means may be required to pay a partial sum or the complete legal fees associated with the divorce proceeding.

In the state of Colorado, we have “Rose motions” that can ease the financial burden of a divorce. During a 2006 case, the Colorado Court of Appeals determined that a trial court may award prospective attorney fees to a spouse who does not have the financial means to fund the divorce. When filing a Rose motion, these prospective fees may cover some or all of the costs associated with the divorce, including attorney fees, court fees, and more. Therefore, if you’re filing for a divorce in Colorado but you don’t think you can afford a quality family law lawyer—think again. Ask your prospective divorce attorney to file a Rose motion for you and this may provide financial relief for you and make the divorce more equitable between each spouse. 

Conclusion – How Much Does a Divorce Attorney Cost?

Going through a divorce can be a stressful, time-consuming, and emotionally challenging time. Even an uncontested divorce, in which both parties agree to the terms of the divorce, can prove to be emotionally traumatic, stressful, and expensive. But you shouldn’t let financial concerns ever prevent you from making the right decision for yourself and your family.

Determining the cost of a Colorado divorce depends on various factors. These factors include things like filing fees, the length of the divorce, court fees, and of course, the divorce attorney fees. While the average cost of a divorce in Colorado is around $10,000, it’s important to be aware of the fact that this number can be significantly higher. That’s just one more reason why it’s so important to hire an experienced and skilled Denver divorce attorney. By doing everything they can to make the divorce process quick and efficient, you can end up saving quite a bit with your divorce. Contact us today at Peek Vasquez Family Law to learn more about how we can help you and your family. With an initial consultation, we can assess your options and set you on the path toward achieving your family goals.

The post How Much Does a Divorce Attorney Cost? appeared first on Peek Family Law, LLC.

While you do need to consider the costs of hiring a divorce attorney, most people who have gone through a divorce will tell you that these fees are certainly worth it in the long run. Pursuing a divorce without legal counsel and representation can make it more difficult to meet your financial and family goals. Handling a divorce case on your own also adds an undue burden during an experience that many say is one of the most challenging times in their lives. That’s why it’s recommended to work with an experienced and empathetic divorce attorney to support you each step of the way.

In this blog, we’re exploring one of the most commonly asked questions individuals have before filing for divorce: who pays attorney fees? While the answer is more complex than one might initially assume, an experienced divorce attorney can help you assess potential fees and financial needs for your specific case.

Peek Family Law is your trusted Colorado family law firm. With a team of experienced and compassionate Denver divorce attorneys, we know what it takes to help each of our clients attain their family goals. In addition to Denver divorce cases, our family law office specializes in many different family law practice areas, including alimony, child custody, adoptions, and even common law marriages in Colorado. If you’re in need of a family law attorney you can trust, Peek Vasquez Family Law is here to support you. 

How Much Does a Divorce Cost?

The cost of a divorce is a critical factor that each party must take into account. However, you shouldn’t allow for potential financial issues to prevent you from making an important decision for you and your family. While each divorce cost will depend on a variety of factors, such as the attorneys, mediators, court fees, and the length of the divorce, statistics show that the average cost of a Colorado divorce is between $9,000 and $11,000. This includes all the fees you may expect, including hiring a divorce attorney, court fees, filing fees, and sundry costs.

But in many ways, the overall cost of your divorce will really come down to you and your spouse. If the spouses pursue an uncontested divorce, then there’s a good chance your overall costs will be much lower as these types of divorces move much quicker. However, if you pursue a contested divorce wherein both parties cannot come to an agreement on various aspects of the divorce, the process can drag on and quickly become much more expensive than the average. 

Who Pays the Attorney Fees in a Divorce?

This primarily comes down to the financial resources of each spouse. Under Colorado state law, each spouse is responsible for paying for their own divorce attorney fees. However, in cases where one spouse may not have the financial resources to do so, the court may order the other spouse to cover these divorce costs. Who pays the fees for each divorce case is always determined on an individual basis. This is just one more reason why it’s so important to hire an experienced divorce attorney who can help you assess the overall costs of your divorce. 

Does Being At Fault Influence Who Pays Attorney Fees?

This question arises is one party can be considered “at fault” during a divorce for actions such as cheating on their spouse. Thus, if your spouse is at fault for causing the divorce, do they end up having to pay attorney fees? In Colorado, this factor does not take part in a judge’s decisions to award attorney fees. So if your spouse does cheat or cause the divorce by some other means, this does not automatically mean they would be on the hook for any fees. 

What if I Can’t Afford Attorney Fees in Colorado?

In some cases, one spouse may have complete control over the finances in a marriage, such as when one spouse works and the other raises children. In these scenarios, the spouse who is financially dependent on the other may worry that they could never file for the divorce because they simply can’t afford it. While it’s no secret that a divorce can become a costly affair, but this concern shouldn’t serve as a barrier for individuals seeking a divorce.

These types of situations are why the state of Colorado has “Rose motions.” In a landmark case, the Colorado Court of Appeals determined that a trial court can actually award “prospective” attorney fees. This means that the court can order a spouse with more financial means to give some funds to the other spouse to fund the divorce. These requests are known as Rose motions.

Therefore, if you’re filing for a divorce but you do not have the funds to hire a divorce attorney, you can hire an attorney and ask them to file a Rose motion on your behalf. This works to ensure that the hardship of that divorce process is more equitable between the two parties. 

Conclusion – Who Pays Attorney Fees in a Divorce?

There’s no simple answer when it comes to who pays the attorney fees for a divorce in Colorado. While attorney fees may be drawn equally from a marital fund, a judge may also take into account the financial situation for each spouse. In some cases, if one spouse is the primary “breadwinner,” they may be ordered to pay partial or the entirety of legal fees for the entire divorce proceeding. If one spouse is not willing to work with the court, they may then be required to pay the attorney fees.

Determining who pays attorney fees in a Denver divorce can be complicated. That’s why you should never pursue a divorce on your own. Working with an experienced Denver divorce law firm can help you understand your case from a legal perspective and determine what this process might end up costing. Having a team of experts on your side can help you assess your options, set realistic goals, and understand the legal implications of pursuing a divorce. They’ll also negotiate on your behalf in efforts to see that your goals are met.

In most cases, there is no good or perfect outcome for a divorce. However, we promise to work diligently to ensure you receive the best possible outcome for you and your family. If you’re going through a divorce, don’t take on this challenge alone. Hire an experienced and compassionate Denver divorce attorney to help guide you every step of the way. 

Contact us today at Peek Family Law to learn more about how we can help you and your family. With an initial consultation, we can assess your options and set you on the path toward achieving your family goals.

The post Who Pays Attorney Fees in a Divorce? appeared first on Peek Family Law, LLC.

But with so many divorce lawyers out there, it can be tricky to be sure you’ve hired the right one. That’s why, in this blog, we’re reviewing 10 important things you should know about your potential Denver divorce attorney before hiring them. By taking your time and finding the right family law expert for your goals, you’ll save yourself time, money, and improve your chances of receiving an outcome that works for you.

Peek Family Law is the premier Colorado family law firm. As experienced and empathetic Denver divorce attorneys, we know what it takes to ensure that our clients meet their family goals. In addition to divorce cases, our office also specializes in many different family law practice areas, including alimony, adoption, child custody, and even common law marriages in Colorado. If you’re in need of a family law attorney you can trust, then give us a call at Peek Vasquez Family Law. 

What Does a Divorce Attorney Do?

First things first: what does a divorce attorney do? A divorce lawyer represents individuals during a divorce to help them achieve a favorable outcome. They’ll handle all the legal aspects of the divorce and help their clients gather documents, file paperwork, and meet any and all important deadlines. They will also carefully review your case to help you understand your options and work to set realistic goals.

In the end, the purpose of a Denver divorce attorney is to make the entire divorce process as efficient, quick, and painless as possible for their clients. While they may not be able to guarantee that you’ll achieve all of your goals during the divorce, they will help you understand your case, negotiate on your behalf, and if necessary, represent you in a court of law. 

5 Things to Know Before Hiring Your Divorce Attorney

Finding the right divorce lawyer takes time and careful consideration. Don’t just sign on with the first divorce attorney you see a commercial for, because they may not be the best attorney for your specific goals. Denver divorce law is complicated and you want to ensure you’re choosing an experienced, compassionate professional. Take your time and weigh your options. You can even “interview” multiple potential attorneys to see which one seems right for you.

Before hiring an attorney for your divorce, here are 5 things you should know:

1. Legal experience: like any other profession, having the right experience is essential for success in divorce law. Make sure to learn more about the specific experience of your potential attorney before working together. Not only do you want an experienced attorney, but also one with specific experience (and a high rate of success) on divorce cases similar to yours.
2. Good communication: clear and consistent communication is key when it comes to getting through a divorce. Make sure to learn more about the communication strategies of your divorce attorney (this is where the “interview” process can really come in handy). Is it easy to get in touch with them when you need their assistance? Can you speak directly to your attorney or are you continually routed elsewhere? Determine the answer to these questions early on for a smoother overall process.
3. Client reviews: one of the most effective ways to gain objective insight into working with a particular divorce attorney is by reading client reviews and testimonials. Client reviews can provide real, unbiased information into what it’s like being represented by a certain attorney. Of course, remember to take these online reviews with a grain of salt. It’s normal, and even expected, for any law office to have a few negative reviews. But if you’re seeing far more negative than positive experiences, this could be an early indicator to continue your search.
4. Compassion and care: while the legal world may seem cold and harsh, the best divorce attorneys understand the value of empathy and compassion. A divorce is one of the most challenging experiences anyone can undergo, which is why you want to ensure you’re working with someone who truly cares and puts this empathy into practice by how they conduct their work. For example, when handling a sensitive issue like Denver child support, compassion is essential for everyone involved, especially the children. Many clients note that they can quickly assess a family law attorneys level of compassion after an initial consultation.
5. Attorney fees: it’s no secret that a divorce can be a very costly undertaking. This becomes especially true if the divorce becomes more complex and drags on when the former spouses can’t reach an agreement. Be sure to carefully review the potential attorney fees so you can get an idea as to whether or not they will fit your budget. The best Denver divorce lawyers will be sure to do everything they can to settle your divorce quickly so you’re not left paying for endless hours as the divorce wears on. 

Conclusion – 5 Things to Know Before Hiring Your Divorce Attorney

Going through a divorce, even an uncontested divorce, can be an extremely stressful and emotional time. When trying to achieve the most favorable result for your entire family, the last thing you should have to worry about is paperwork and legal procedures. When you feel most isolated, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to go through a divorce proceeding by yourself. Call on the assistance of Peek Family Law, an experienced and compassionate divorce law firm who can support you and help you achieve your goals.

When you hire an experienced Colorado divorce lawyer, you’ll have an expert on your side who can help you assess your legal situation and set realistic, attainable goals. Your divorce attorney can also clearly map out the best course of action for your case. They’ll work diligently and efficiently to ensure the process is completed as quickly as possible to reduce stress on the family as a whole.

But remember: don’t simply hire any local divorce lawyer. Take your time and thoroughly vet your potential candidates. Find a divorce attorney who can communicate consistently and effectively so you always know the status of your case. Do a little online research, especially focusing on client reviews, to learn more about what it’s like being represented by this specific law firm. 

Of course, you should also take into account other factors, such as the attorney fees and what types of cases they usually represent—and win. When it comes to undergoing a divorce, don’t feel like you’re all alone. Hire the right Denver divorce attorney for your legal needs to give yourself the best chance possible to achieve your legal and family goals.

Contact us today at Peek Family Law to learn more about how we can help you through your divorce proceeding. With our easy consultation process, years of experience, and a team of family law experts, we can set you on the right path toward achieving your goals.

The post 5 Things to Know Before Hiring Your Divorce Attorney appeared first on Peek Family Law, LLC.

Peek Family Law is the premier Colorado family law firm that you can trust. As experienced and empathetic Denver divorce lawyers, we understand what it takes to ensure that our clients meet their legal goals. Our family law office specializes in various practice areas, including divorce, alimony, adoption, child custody and support, and even common law marriages. 

As seasoned litigators, our team is able to leverage our experience and compassion to help our clients through these challenging times. Our goal is to resolve our family law cases as quickly as possible to reduce trauma to children and families. If you’re in need of compassionate, effective, and comprehensive legal representation, Peeks Family Law is by your side. 

What Does a Denver Divorce Attorney Do?

First things first: what exactly does a divorce attorney do? Essentially, these family law experts will cover all the legal aspects of your divorce. On your behalf, your Denver divorce attorney will file all the needed paperwork, collect and file the necessary documentation, and maintain strict deadlines. They will also work hard to ensure that the overall process is as smooth and pain-free as possible for their client. An experienced divorce attorney will also handle any negotiations with other lawyers on your behalf. 

Very few of us are equipped with the legal knowledge or skills to successfully negotiate legal matters. When entering a divorce, this is one battle you don’t want to face alone. From a legal perspective, divorces are complicated and require specific knowledge and experience to find yourself on the right side of the final settlement. Hiring an experienced divorce attorney will help you understand the legal complexities of a divorce, such as parenting rights,  and can increase your chances of receiving that favorable outcome you desire. 

What are the Different Types of Divorce in Colorado?

While a divorce may seem like a standardized process, in reality, no two divorce cases are the same. With assets to be divided, Colorado child support laws to be understood, and the competing interests of each spouse, each divorce is truly unique. However, the majority of Colorado divorces can be divided into 5 main types: uncontested , mediated, collaborative, litigated, or even a legal separation.

Let’s review each of these types of divorce in more detail:

1. Uncontested Divorce.

For most couples, this type of divorce is ideal as it’s the most straightforward and less combative. An uncontested divorce occurs when both spouses agree from the beginning about the terms of separation. Essentially, this means that both parties are agreeing that they would like to legally end their marriage. They also agree on how assets should be divided up. As you might expect, an uncontested divorce makes the process much easier for everyone involved—including your divorce attorneys. When everyone is on the same page from the beginning, it’s that much easier to reach a favorable and timely conclusion to the case. 

2. Mediated Divorce.

While most couples would prefer an uncontested divorce, this isn’t always the reality of the situation. In many divorce cases, couples are unable to agree to the specific terms of their divorce. This could include issues including dividing up assets and property, alimony payments, or child custody.

When the spouses cannot agree to terms, this can turn into a mediated divorce. Here, a third-party mediator will work with the couple to help them make decisions and come to terms. These mediators may be a retired judge or another attorney. It’s important to note that the mediator does not provide direct legal assistance to either party directly, but instead, functions more like a bridge between each of the spouses to help them reach a settlement. 

3. Collaborative Divorce.

In a collaborative divorce, each spouse will have a divorce attorney who represents their interests throughout the entirety of the legal process. By working closely with experienced family law attorneys, a collaborative divorce can help you avoid taking the divorce to court for an agreement. This type of specific divorce needs both parties to commit to finding a resolution rather than forcing the adversarial approach.

4. Litigated Divorce.

For the most difficult divorces, couples may have to turn to a litigated divorce process. In this type of divorce, the spouses cannot come to terms—even with the assistance of mediators or divorce lawyers. In a litigated divorce, the divorce attorneys will file a petition for divorce. From there, the courts become involved in the proceedings via hearings. 

In the most difficult cases, this may even result in a divorce trial. In these situations, the court will then determine how best to divide up property and handle issues like child support and alimony. The courts work diligently to ensure that the final decision is as equitable as possible for both of the spouses.

5. Legal Separation.

In some cases, a couple may not want to be together, but they don’t feel like they’re quite ready for a divorce. To address this “gray area,” a couple could file for a legal separation. This can be ideal for couples who feel like their marriage isn’t working and feel like they need some time and space to work on their issues. For many, it’s worthwhile to consider a legal separation before deciding on pursuing a divorce.

A legal separation provides individuals with distance and space, but it does not officially dissolve the marriage. After a six month period, either party in the legal separation may request the court convert the legal separation into a decree of dissolution. 

Conclusion – What are the Different Types of Divorce in Colorado?

A divorce is never easy. Even in ideal circumstances, such as those commonly found in an uncontested divorce, undergoing divorce proceedings can be stressful, time consuming, emotionally traumatic, and expensive. Whether you find yourself pursuing an uncontested divorce, litigated divorce, mediated divorce, collaborative divorce, or a legal separation, you need to ensure that your interests are represented by an experienced family law attorney who understands the details of your unique divorce process. 

Of course, the greatest concern in any divorce case is how this will impact your family. In divorce cases, there’s generally no “good” outcome at the end of the day. However, our entire legal team will work hard to ensure you receive the best possible outcome. If you’re going through a divorce in Denver, don’t bear this burden alone. Hire an experienced and compassionate Denver divorce lawyer to help guide you every step of the way. 

Contact us at Peek Family Law to learn more about how we can be of assistance to you and your family. With our free consultation, our team of family law experts can assess your legal options. From there, we can set you on the path toward achieving your legal goals.

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Peek Family Law is your premier Colorado family law firm. As trusted and experienced Denver divorce lawyers, we know what it takes to ensure our clients meet their family and legal goals. We specialize in various practice areas of family law, including divorce, adoption, alimony (maintenance), child custody, child support, common law marriages, and more. 

As seasoned litigators, we strive to leverage our experience and compassion to help our clients through these difficult times. Our goal is to resolve our family law cases as quickly as possible to reduce trauma to children and families. If you’re in need of compassionate, effective, and passionate legal representation, Peeks Family Law is here for you. 

What is Family Law?

Divorce cases are categorized under the larger legal umbrella known as family law. Family law refers to a practice area that focuses primarily on legal issues involved with family relationships. These specific relationships may include marriages, divorces, adoptions, child custody, and more. Family law lawyers represent clients in court proceedings and help them navigate the often complicated negotiations process. They also draft key legal documents, such as court petitions and property agreements, and will represent their clients in front of a judge during a trial. 

Some family law lawyers will focus on particular specialties. Some may specialize in adoption cases, emancipation, divorce, or other family-related issues. What’s unique about family law attorneys is that their cases deal so intimately with close bonds, especially those between children and their parents. This is why family law requires a unique level of empathy and compassion as these lawyers help families navigate these challenges. 

What Does a Divorce Attorney Do?

What exactly can a divorce attorney do for your case? Essentially, a divorce lawyer will handle all the legal aspects of your case from start to finish. They’ll gather important documents, file the necessary paperwork, and help you adhere to critical deadlines. Their role is to make the divorce process as efficient, timely, and pain-free as possible for their clients. 

While this type of outcome may not always be possible, they’ll utilize their experience and resources to help you meet your legal goals. Your Denver divorce lawyer will also handle any communications with other lawyers, including potential negotiations. Very few people are equipped with the legal knowledge or skills to successfully negotiate these matters. This is one battle you don’t want to face alone. 

Why Should I Hire a Denver Divorce Attorney?

During a divorce, taking the time to find the right divorce attorney might seem like the last thing you need. After all, isn’t it possible to handle a divorce without legal representation? In Colorado, you’re allowed to file for a divorce and complete the entire process without a Denver divorce lawyer. Yet, most legal experts would not recommend this option.

Let’s take a look at who you should hire a Denver divorce attorney:

1. Assess the specifics of your case and determine your legal options.

No two divorces are the exact same. Each divorce presents a unique situation and legal circumstances that need to be navigated. 

For example, a divorce case involving Denver child support will be inherently different than one where no children are involved. A divorce attorney will be able to assess your unique case to determine the best course of action. 

2. Help you set realistic goals.

The best outcome for most divorce cases is an even split between the two parties. A divorce attorney can help you set realistic, attainable goals so that you have a clearer vision of how this proceeding may conclude. They will also help you file the necessary divorce paperwork and make you aware of important deadlines that may affect the outcome of your case.

3. Pre-trial preparation.

If your divorce case goes to trial, there is quite a bit of pre-trial preparation that needs to be done if you hope to achieve a favorable outcome. Your divorce lawyer will assess the specifics of your case and conduct extensive legal research into how the law applies to your situation. They can also work with any potential witnesses you may call and prepare them for the trial. 

4. Represent you in court.

And finally, a divorce attorney will represent you in court in front of a judge if your divorce case goes to trial. In Colorado, all divorce and family law trials are heard by judges—not juries. It takes experience and a thorough understanding of legal information and proceedings to successful present an argument to a judge. While you can represent yourself in a court of law, very few individuals have the experience and knowledge to do so successfully. 

What Happens if I Don’t Hire a Divorce Lawyer?

In some cases, you may be able to successfully complete a divorce without the assistance of a divorce attorney. But this is a risk that most people are not willing to take. Why is that? Well, without the proper legal representation, there’s a chance that your interests will be overlooked and you’ll lose out on that favorable outcome you envisioned. 

If you choose to represent yourself in court, you may fail to meet certain procedural requirements that can hurt your case. From a legal perspective, divorces are complicated and require specific knowledge and experience to find yourself on the right side of the settlement. Hiring a divorce attorney increases your chances of receiving the outcome you desire. 

Conclusion – Why Should I Hire a Denver Divorce Attorney?

Going through a divorce is a challenging, stressful, and emotional experience. If it feels like you may lose everything, remember that you don’t have to go through this process alone. When you work with an experienced and compassionate Denver divorce law firm, you’ll have a team of experts on your side. We’ll help you assess your options, set realistic goals, understand the legal implications of your situation, and work to the best of our abilities to ensure that your goals are met. 

In most cases, there’s no “good” outcome following a divorce, but we work hard to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.  If you’re going through a divorce, don’t take on this burden alone. Hire an experienced and compassionate Denver divorce attorney to help guide you every step of the way. 
Contact us today at Peek Family Law to learn more about how we can help you and your family. With a free consultation, we can assess your legal options and set you on the path toward achieving your legal and family goals.

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2. Trust Your Coach’s Playcalling
By “coach,” we are of course referring to your Denver divorce attorney. As the “quarterback” of your divorce, you will ultimately be making the important decisions. A good attorney, however, can help you by advising you as to the best course of action, and making sure your interests are protected. Furthering the analogy, they can also work with a team of “assistant coaches,” such as forensic accountant, who can lend their own specialized expertise to your case.

3. Take What The Defense Gives You
In football, teams will often make adjustments to their strategy during the game to make their team perform more effectively and efficiently. In an uncontested divorce, you may need to compromise with your spouse in much the same way. While you should never sacrifice your rights, a divorce involving compromise will usually yield a better end result for both parties.

4. Don’t Deflate The Ball!
After the New England Patriots were caught under-inflating footballs at their home games, quarterback Tom Brady was essentially punished (however ineffectively) for hiding evidence of his involvement. Likewise, hiding assets in a divorce will come back to haunt you. Be honest and up front with the judge in your case, and you will likely enjoy a more favorable resolution to your divorce.

5. Get Ready to Make Another Run
We aren’t saying you should get ready for another divorce – instead, you should get ready for your new life ahead. Divorce really can be a fresh start, particularly when you have a healthy attitude. It is never an easy process, but you can prepare for the future by relying on your team of friends, family, and a therapist or counselor.

Our Denver divorce lawyer can help you toward a brighter future. Contact us today for an evaluation of your case.

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Myth #2: Property Is Always Split 50/50
Many people believe that all property is split equally between the two spouses. In reality, marital property is split equitably, meaning that it has to be fair, but does not need to be equal. Generally speaking, the court will look at each spouse’s economic circumstances, as well as any factors which impact children, when determining the division of property. Additionally, property which is deemed “separate,” such as a car owned before the marriage, will not be subject to division.

Myth #3: Mothers Will Always Get Primary Custody
This is a myth which is rooted in fact. Many years ago, it was highly uncommon for a father to be granted custody over children in a divorce, even if their mother is unable to care for them. These days, the court will grant custody in “the best interests” of the children, and fathers routinely receive primary custody.

Myth #4: It’s Best to Hide Your Assets
This myth could not be further from the truth. The court will almost undoubtedly find out about your hidden assets, and may even punish you for trying to hide them. The best thing to do is to be as up-front and honest as possible about all your assets.

Myth #5: Men Will Always Have to Pay Child or Spousal Support
This is another myth that was once true, but no longer carries any weight. These days, it is possible for both the mother and father to be ordered to pay child support payments. Likewise, alimony can be ordered for both men and women, and is now based on current earnings and earning potential, rather than gender.

Getting divorced? Call our firm today for your free case evaluation.

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Don’t Use Your Children as Therapists or Spies
Divorce is especially difficult on children, but can be made even tougher if one or both parents use them as a sounding board. While you may have serious issues with your spouse, you should not bring your children into the middle of your dispute. Do not use them to collect information on your spouse, or attempt to sway their opinion of the other parent.

Don’t Attempt to Hide Property
It is very common for individuals to hide property, or “give it away” with the intention of retrieving it later. This rarely works out well. If the court finds out that you are attempting to hide property, you could face incarceration, a dismissal of your claims, and additional fees.

Don’t Violate Any Court Orders
During a divorce, it’s common for a judge to issue temporary custody or visitation orders. It is a very bad idea to violate these court orders, as it can make it extremely difficult to get the custody or visitation rights you desire. Unless you have reason to believe that your children are in danger, it’s best to follow the court order to the letter.

Don’t Let Your Emotions Control You
This is perhaps the most important “don’t” of divorce. Divorce is an extremely stressful process, and it’s very normal to feel angry and upset at your spouse. However, it’s crucial that you don’t make decisions based on emotion–while you may feel better for a moment, there is nothing to be gained from this behavior.

Getting Divorced? Call (303) 495-5757 Today.
At Peek Vasquez, LLC (former Peek Family Law, LLC), our skilled Denver divorce attorney can help guide you through this difficult time. Our firm proudly provides personalized, comprehensive legal solutions which are aligned with our clients’ desired results. Attorneys Sean Peek and Ricardo Vasquez have extensive experience in a variety of family law matters, and can assist you with all aspects of your divorce including child custody, child support, alimony, and more.

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