Palmer Family Law Blog
Understanding The Role Of The Pre
When parents are in a custody dispute (in Colorado this is an Allocation of Parental Responsibilities action), the process can be emotionally and legally complex. Parties can ask the Judge to appoint an expert to investigate and give recommendations. This expert is called a Parental Responsibilities Evaluator (PRE). The PRE plays a critical role in ensuring that decisions are made in the best...
What is income for purposes of calculating maintenance?
Previously, we discussed what counts as income for purposes of child support. In this blog, we will discuss what counts as income for purposes of calculation of maintenance (alimony). The determination of income for purposes of calculating spousal maintenance is very similar to the determination of income for purposes of child support. There are some differences, however. The statute defines...
Permanent Orders: What To Expect
In Colorado, the final outcome of a divorce or custody matter is referred to as “Permanent Orders.” This can be the result of a hearing (“trial”) or a settlement. Permanent Orders are aimed at the final allocation of parental responsibilities, division of property, allocation of debt, and allocation of costs and attorney fees. A Permanent Orders hearing begins with the preparation. You will...
What is income for purposes of determining child support?
In any divorce involving children, one necessary issue that must be resolved is the calculation of child support. There are a number of factors that go into the calculation of child support in Colorado including the number of overnights each parent has with the children, any applicable credits for payment of health insurance or child care, and each party’s gross monthly income. There are other...
Financial Disclosures
WHAT IS THE FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE PROCESS? Arguably the most intimidating step in a divorce or custody case is the exchange of financial disclosures. With decades of experience in divorce and custody cases, almost every single client we have has been intimidated or overwhelmed by this process. It is our goal to walk our clients through it with clarity and ease, because while it is a substantial...
Limited Scope Representation: Why Would You Want It?
Last week, we discussed what limited scope representation/unbundled services are and what you can expect from limited representation. This week we are outlining why you may want to consider limited representation and how to determine if that is the best choice for you. Many potential clients consider limited scope representation for the financial benefit. Unlike full representation where much of...
What Is Limited Representation?
There are two types of representation available to you in your divorce or custody case: limited or full. Limited representation (also called “unbundled services”) is retaining a lawyer on a consultation-only basis. You hire an attorney in much the same way you would for a full representation case, but you represent yourself rather than have an attorney on your behalf. Full representation...
How often can a parenting plan be changed?
“I read that a parenting plan can only be changed every two years.” This is a common statement or question that people who contact us will ask. In reality, this is a large misconception and misunderstanding of Colorado law. This blog post will explain when and how often a parenting plan can be modified in Colorado. The two-year bar applicable to modifications of a parenting plan in Colorado only...
How to Prepare for a CFI or PRE Investigation
Your divorce or custody case has begun. You attended your Initial Status Conference, and now you have had a custody expert appointed. A custody expert can be either a CFI (Child and Family Investigator) or a PRE (Parental Responsibilities Evaluator). For an introductory conversation on a CFI vs. a PRE, check out this article. After the initial deposit is paid, the next step is likely a large...
What Is a Contested Hearing?
“Contested” and “non-contested” hearings are terms you will likely hear as you near the end of your divorce or custody case. Every divorce or custody case ends in a hearing, whether that is contested or non-contested. For legal literacy, you need to know the difference as these terms will be used heavily towards the end of your case. A contested hearing is what most people refer to as a “trial.”...
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Do you have a family matter with which we can assist you? Our family lawyers in Parker, CO, are ready to walk with you through your family’s biggest challenges and transitions.
Reach out today to request your free consultation with Palmer Family Law. We look forward to hearing your story.