Divorce Post-Decree Mediation Family Law Property Division

Divorcing with Kids: How to Make the Process Easier on Them

Laura E. Shapiro - June 25, 2020

Parent holding child - divorcing with kids

Do you know that there are over 1 million American children that suffer as a result of divorce every year?

How your child will react as a result the divorce will depend on their age, the circumstances of the divorce, and the personality that they have.

When you are divorcing with kids, your main concern may be how you can make the entire divorce process easier for your child.

That's why today, we've created this quick guide to help you find ways to comfort your child during the divorce process. Keep reading to learn more!

How to Prepare for a Divorce: A Helpful Guide

Laura E. Shapiro - May 28, 2020

If you are thinking about getting a divorce, it can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. During this tumultuous time, it is important to consider all your options.

Divorce is difficult for everyone involved. That is why taking the steps to prepare yourself for divorce will make the process smoother and hopefully less adversarial.

If you are wondering how to prepare for a divorce, we can help. Here are some important steps to take before getting a divorce.

Colorado Common-Law Marriage

Laura E. Shapiro - March 5, 2020

Colorado is one of the few states that recognize common-law marriage. And while other states will recognize a common-law marriage from Colorado, less than ten states still allow this type of union to take place. By the end of this article, you’ll ...

Divorce Mediation and Debt

Laura E. Shapiro - January 10, 2020

Until debt tear us apart written on a brick wall

Colorado courts treat marital debt the same way they treat marital assets. They divide them between spouses in a way that is fair and equitable, but that might not be how you want to do it.

With divorce mediation, you do have a choice.

Divorce mediation and debt can go hand in hand so that you can keep more control over the outcome and more of your personal business stays out of the courtroom.

The Impact of Divorce on Children & Experts to Consult

Laura E. Shapiro - October 30, 2019

Most kids who experience the separation and divorce of their parents may struggle in the immediate aftermath, but the impact of divorce on children is generally modest unless there is a high level of parental conflict.

This also aligns with the time it takes most parents to get back on their feet and establish a workable co-parenting relationship with their former spouse, including polite, effective communication.

What Does Equitable Distribution Mean in Colorado

Laura E. Shapiro - August 29, 2019

Colorado is an “equitable division” state. Some states follow community property laws instead. In Colorado, there is no assumption that property is divided equally.

Equitable distribution states do not assume all property obtained during the marriage is marital property. The result is that Colorado divides marital assets and debts in a way that is fair but not necessarily equal.

Understanding the Divorce Mediation Process

Laura E. Shapiro - August 13, 2019

It's no secret that divorce is one of the hardest things you and your family will ever go through.

Even in the most amicable of circumstances, the changes within your family structure can be tough. It makes sense, then, that you'd want to make the divorce process as easy as possible.

But hashing things out in court can heighten tensions between you and your spouse.

On top of that, allowing a judge to make major decisions about finances and child custody means that no one leaves the marriage with what they want.

But what alternatives do you have?

How to Value a Restaurant for a Divorce

Laura E. Shapiro - March 22, 2019

It can be difficult to divide a restaurant when you and your spouse are divorcing. Family-owned restaurants are often a labor of love as well as a business venture.

The first step in dividing a restaurant for a divorce is to determine its value. Below, we discuss how to value a restaurant after a divorce.

How Divorce Affects Health Insurance

Laura E. Shapiro - January 25, 2019

If you are worried that a soon-to-be-former spouse will retaliate against you by canceling your health insurance during the divorce, Colorado law has you covered.

Colorado Revised Statutes 14-10-107 (4)(b)(I)(D) forbids the cancellation of health insurance that provides coverage for spouses and dependent children.

Additionally, spouses cannot allow the insurance to lapse by not paying the premiums.

Contested Divorce vs. Uncontested Divorce

Laura E. Shapiro - January 10, 2019

Decision between contested and uncontested divorce

Couples have many decisions to make during a divorce. Whether you and your spouse agree on issues will determine whether it is a contested divorce or uncontested divorce.

Couples have a contested divorce when there are disputes over any issues that need to be resolved before the divorce is finalized.

In an uncontested divorce, the soon-to-be-ex spouses have resolved or are able to resolve their issues and are ready for a judge to sign off on their proposed settlement.

Let’s take a look at what is involved in each type of divorce.