Common Questions in Family and Custody Law:

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1. Why Hire an Attorney?

I won't sugarcoat it – we're talking about divorce. If everything were "peachy," we wouldn't need to meet. In my 25+ years, handling over 7,400 cases, I've come to realize that, unfortunately, in divorce, someone needs to "win." It's a tough journey. Many have claimed, "We agree on everything; this will be simple." I welcome simplicity and strive for swift resolutions. However, reality often unfolds differently. Many of my cases find resolution in mediation, where serious negotiation becomes essential. My mission is to ensure you emerge with dignity intact.

Divorces often spiral into complexity, not merely due to the differences between the parties but because of external "advice." Friends offer well-intentioned but unsolicited "wisdom," Google becomes an overwhelming "educator," and then there's your spouse's attorney. The landscape is cluttered with attorneys who excel in paperwork and intimidation via communication, yet falter in court, focusing more on billing than on effective representation. My approach is distinct. I don't rely on your case for income; I've built my success and choose my battles carefully, a luxury not all attorneys have.

I prioritize direct communication, getting to know you and your case intimately. Experience has taught me the value of mutual trust and understanding, recognizing the importance of your core values and foundation. A colleague once remarked that my effectiveness as an attorney stems from my ability to "silence the noise and calm the waters," ensuring your voice is heard.

I've compiled a guide on various divorce scenarios and key considerations, emphasizing the essence of personal reflection. As I often remind the judges, "I may be the least important person in this room, but my client's voice will resonate today." Let's navigate this path, your way. 

2. The we think this is simple, "we agree," and will go smoothly divorce: 

 
Understanding that relationships sometimes reach their expiration date is a sobering reality. If you and your partner are at a juncture where parting ways amicably and moving forward with positivity is the mutual path chosen, then divorce may indeed be the most prudent step. An amicable divorce, characterized by mutual agreement on the separation, can transform what is often a turbulent process into a harmonious transition for everyone involved. This scenario, as highlighted in my introductory message, is uncommon, yet with the right navigation, it is entirely possible to equitably divide property, resolve custody issues, and set the course for you to embark on your best life ahead. My extensive experience is dedicated to facilitating exactly this outcome...your future is my mission. 

3. The Irreconcilable Differences Divorce: 

At the heart of most divorces are irreconcilable differences that create a chasm between spouses, breeding bitterness and a sense of lost control—be it financial, parental, or both. Often, the spark of this tumultuous journey is infidelity. It's not uncommon for control dynamics to play a significant role; once one partner perceives a loss of control over the other, the situation can escalate to hostility or become simply unbearable. My approach begins with a deep understanding of your desires and needs, aiming to bring calm to the storm. Together, we navigate towards solutions that ensure financial stability and parenting arrangements that not only meet your needs but also serve the best interests of your children.

Let's be honest, at the end of the day, unless financial gain is the sole driver, the well-being of the children reigns supreme. They deserve to thrive and feel secure amidst life's upheavals. With my guidance, even the most acrimonious circumstances can be steered towards a resolution that safeguards your and your children's futures, respecting their unintended role in these proceedings. My courtroom prowess is unmatched, offering a formidable advantage as we champion what's best for your children. My extensive daily courtroom presence and years of relentless advocacy provide a strategic edge in mediation and pretrial negotiations, ensuring these critical issues are addressed with your family's best interests at heart.

Consider this: Would you rather have Tom Brady leading your team, or the backup QB? Similarly, we can employ specialized tools like a Child Family Investigator or a Parental Rights Evaluator to discern the true needs of your children. Having collaborated with a plethora of these experts, I possess the insight to identify the most suitable professional for your unique situation—I've been here before, and history is our greatest teacher.

As we navigate these challenging times together, you'll uncover many more facets of this complex process. 

4. The Domestic Violent relationship and or controlling spousal issue divorce:

If there's a realm where a trial lawyer can truly excel, domestic violence criminal cases are my forte. I've likely managed more of these cases and conducted more DV trials than any other private attorney in Colorado's history. These cases are harrowing, as allegations or convictions of domestic violence carry profound implications for custody. The court is mandated to assess whether the parties can collaboratively decide on matters affecting their children's lives, including parenting time, education, religion, sports, and medical decisions. A conviction introduces a presumption of control exerted by the convicted individual over their spouse.

Furthermore, it's not uncommon for a spouse to allege domestic violence falsely, seeking to gain leverage by ousting the other spouse from the family home and usurping control and decision-making authority. Yet, there are instances where a spouse—and possibly even the children—must be shielded from an abusive partner, where issues of violence, drugs, addictions, and financial domination come into play and must be addressed with precision.

In these situations, I leverage all available legal instruments—restraining orders, motions to restrict parenting time, anti-abduction motions, among others—to safeguard my clients and their families. Having encountered these scenarios from every angle, I enter this battlefield with confidence, armed with the expertise and strategy to secure victory in the vast majority of cases. My goal is to empower you, to instill a belief in your strength and ability to overcome, ensuring you emerge from this ordeal poised for a future built on the foundation of justice and peace.