Divorce Post-Decree Mediation Family Law Property Division

What Happens to Pension Plan Benefits During Divorce?

Laura E. Shapiro - December 7, 2018

Retirements accounts are often a married couple’s largest asset, and they are also one of the most complex.

While they are marital property, splitting a pension can be a complicated process.

No matter if you are the owner of the pension account or if you are seeking a portion of your spouse’s employer-sponsored retirement, dealing with splitting a pension plan can present issues.

You need a knowledgeable attorney who regularly deals with complex financial issues during divorce.

How Is Spousal Support Calculated?

Laura E. Shapiro - July 16, 2018

One plus one equals three written on chalk board

Colorado courts calculate spousal support using statutory guidelines.

Based on how long the couple has been married, the income of each spouse, and other specific factors, the Court will decide how much the higher-earning spouse may have to pay.

Under state law, the Court calculates spousal support using a formula. Under this formula, the amount of spousal support equals:

What Is the Difference Between Legal Separation and Divorce?

Laura E. Shapiro - July 10, 2018

There is one significant difference between legal separation and divorce in Colorado: A divorce legally dissolves a marriage, but a legal separation does not.

Couples who divorce are free to remarry.

Couples who are legally separated are still married to each other, even though they are living independently and have gone their separate ways. Legally separated couples cannot marry anyone else until they have divorced.

How Do I File for Legal Separation?

Laura E. Shapiro - July 3, 2018

You can file for legal separation at the district court in the county where you and your spouse live, or where your spouse lives.

Under state law, you must have lived in Colorado for at least 91 days before you can file a petition for your separation.

Before you file the paperwork, you might want to...

Will divorce impact your plans for your golden years?

Laura E. Shapiro - March 9, 2018

Many Colorado residents facing the prospect of a divorce wonder what will happen to their retirement.

The end of your marriage will certainly trigger significant changes in most areas of your life, but that does not mean that you have to give up on your dreams for your golden years.

The protection of divorce without actually getting divorced

Laura E. Shapiro - June 21, 2017

White padlock on blue circular background

There are many reasons why you and your spouse may not wish to move forward with a divorce at this time.

From the many tax benefits of remaining married to religious concerns, a legal separation may be the most beneficial option for you at this time.

Like other Colorado couples who make this choice, you would be wise to seek a formal separation agreement, not just a verbal agreement.

Staying in Business Together While Getting a Divorce

Laura E. Shapiro - May 9, 2017

You married your business partner, but after years of disagreements, you are now considering divorce.

At the same time, the company you run together is making enough money to support each of you in life beyond marriage.

You don't want to give up your career or your business. How can you get past all the arguing, bitter resentment and emotional damage and still work side by side? In the right circumstances, and with agreements in writing, it can be done.

Getting divorced? Time to brush up on financial knowledge

Laura E. Shapiro - April 12, 2017

Whether you are in a stable marriage or are looking at a possible divorce, the fact is life can throw you a curve ball in an instant and leave you on uncertain ground.

This is especially true for the spouse who has stayed at home to care for the kids while the "bread-winner" handled all the financial matters, from weekly paycheck deposits to balancing the checkbook.

If you no longer have the in-house accountant watching the books, would you know how to care for the family funds?

Important Guidance for Couples Navigating High-Asset Divorce

Laura E. Shapiro - March 23, 2017

While there are many different reasons that a couple might wind up getting divorced, even the most amicable of divorces can become complicated if there is high net-worth involved.

There might be multiple properties to allocate, a family business that must be divided, and investment portfolios that must be addressed.

This process becomes even more complicated if there are children involved.

As a result, couples with significant assets should keep a few legal tips in mind to ensure that they minimize the cost of the divorce process and obtain a fair divorce settlement.