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Things To Do Before Filing for Divorce in Denver

Laura E. Shapiro - May 15, 2026

Things to Do Before Filing for Divorce

Many people in Denver, CO reach a point where the marriage feels unsustainable, but do not know whether they are ready to start the legal process of divorce or legal separation.

Understanding the key Things to Do Before Filing for Divorce can promote efficiency, prevent expensive mistakes, reduce conflict, and give you a stronger position on finances, children, and next steps.

Most people do not realize how much the early steps in divorce can affect the outcome. This guide explains how the Colorado divorce process works, what to organize before filing, and where early planning matters most.

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How Is Spousal Support Calculated in 2026?

Laura E. Shapiro - March 20, 2026

An attorney calculating spousal support.

A separation or divorce often brings the same immediate worry: “How will the bills get paid once there are two households?”

Understanding how spousal support is calculated under Colorado law can help you plan realistically, negotiate from a stronger position, and avoid surprises in court.

This guide explains Colorado's statutory framework, the documents you need, and why an online spousal support calculator or alimony calculator is only a starting point.

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Understanding the Divorce Mediation Process: A Comprehensive Guide

Laura E. Shapiro - June 03, 2025

Divorce is rarely easy. The divorce mediation process provides a way to reduce stress and conflict, making a challenging situation far more manageable.

For many couples facing divorce, mediation sessions offer a proven, cost-effective alternative that’s far less emotionally draining compared to traditional court litigation.

In this comprehensive guide, our Denver divorce mediation expert, Laura Shapiro, will walk you through:

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Understanding the Difference Between Mediation and Arbitration

Laura E. Shapiro - June 03, 2025

A mediator sitting between opposing parties.

When facing a legal dispute, it's important to know the difference between mediation and arbitration so that you can choose the right option for your situation.

If you're going through a Denver family law matter, then the Court will almost always require you to mediate. However, for some people, arbitration may be the better option.

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The Benefits of Divorce Mediation: A Smarter Path to Resolution

Laura E. Shapiro - June 03, 2025

Comparison of cost between mediation and litigation

Divorce is often seen as a contentious, expensive, and emotionally draining process.

However

Divorce mediation offers a more amicable, cost-effective, and collaborative alternative to traditional divorce litigation.

By choosing mediation, divorcing couples can resolve their divorce issues with less conflict, more control, and lower legal fees.

In this article, we explore the benefits of divorce mediation, how it works, and why it might be the best option for you and your family.

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Divorce Mediation Checklist

Laura E. Shapiro - June 03, 2025

Divorce Mediation Checklist

Divorce mediation is a collaborative and cost-effective way for divorcing couples to settle their differences without the need for a long and expensive court battle.

Sounds Great, Right?

This divorce mediation checklist is designed to help you thoroughly prepare for your divorce mediation session.

With the goal of having a smooth and productive mediation that leads to a settlement.

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Divorce Mediation vs. Lawyer: Which Is Right for You?

Laura E. Shapiro - June 03, 2025

Sign that says Mediation Process

If you and your spouse have decided to get a divorce, you might be wondering whether it’s best to go through mediation or let the courts rule on issues such as property division and child custody in a formal legal proceeding.

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Colorado Divorce Law 101: Process, Timeline & What to Expect

Laura E. Shapiro - July 25, 2024

Divorce is not an easy process, and not having a basic understanding of Colorado divorce law can make it very difficult.

But that's where this article comes in.

After reading this, you will have a good understanding of Colorado law and the divorce process so that you can proceed with a clear picture of what to expect and be well prepared.

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Should You File a Motion To Restrict Parenting Time?

Laura E. Shapiro - April 08, 2024

You're considering filing an emergency motion to restrict parenting time.

But should you?

If you file the motion, the Colorado statute states that further parenting time has to be supervised, and the Court must schedule a hearing within 14 days.

The restriction means the other parent will only be allowed visitation under the supervision of an unrelated third party.

However

If you cannot justify the restriction on parenting time to the Court, unsupervised parenting time will resume, and you may be required to pay the other parent's attorney fees and costs.

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Examples of Parental Alienation

Laura E. Shapiro - January 17, 2024

Parental alienation is a process where one parent manipulates the children into having an unfavorable perception of the other parent.

This conscious and sometimes subconscious manipulation aims to damage and estrange the relationship between the children and the other parent.

Parental alienation is a complex and concerning issue faced by many families who go through divorce.

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