Divorce
At Frigo Joe Law, we understand that divorce can be scary and lead to feelings of uncertainty and insecurity about your future. The results of your divorce case can impact the rest of your life, so we are here to guide you through the process, minimize your risk, and protect what is most important to you.
If you decide to end your marriage, you can file for divorce or legal separation. The process is the same and both will result in identical legal consequences: a court order dividing your assets and debts, addressing spousal maintenance (alimony), and determining parental rights and child support, if you have a child. Whether you elect to file for divorce or legal separation is personal preference, and if you file for legal separation, it can be converted to a divorce later.
A divorce or legal separation can be contested or uncontested. Uncontested cases are those in which the spouses have reached a full agreement. In uncontested cases, we are here to guide you through the process and draft your agreement to ensure your rights are protected and your intentions are clearly documented. While some people elect to represent themselves in an uncontested divorce to avoid the cost of having an attorney prepare their agreement, many end up spending thousands of dollars later when they seek to enforce the agreement because the terms are unclear, too vague, or there are items missing. The legal fees you’ll incur to have an attorney properly prepare your agreement can prevent future conflict and litigation, safeguard your rights, and give you peace of mind.
We understand that contested divorces can be emotionally and financially taxing on you and your family. We pride ourselves on being both hard-fighting and compassionate advocates for our clients. We care about what is most important to you. We will listen to you and handle the legal process so that you can focus on healing.
In Colorado, the court divides a marital estate, including assets and debts, equitably (i.e., fairly) between divorcing spouses. While equitable often means equally, the court can divide the marital estate disproportionately upon finding such a division equitable. There are many issues that may impact your case including, but not limited to, the existence of a pre- or postnuptial agreement, hidden assets, business ownership, high assets, inheritance, premarital or separate property, and common law marriage. If you have children, the court will issue orders regarding the custody of your children, which may be complicated by domestic violence, child abuse, relocation of a parent, alcohol or substance abuse, or your child’s age or special needs. At Frigo Joe Law, we have extensive practice addressing all of these issues and won’t be intimidated. Our experience allows us to provide you with insightful advice and strategies in order to minimize your risk, make informed choices regarding the experts and mediators selected in your case, and present your strongest case. The attorney you select to represent you matters, and our goal is getting you the best outcome to begin the next chapter in your life.
Getting divorced is overwhelming, but we are here to get you through it. Here’s what you can expect from the court process.