Longmont Pre-Divorce Planning
Experienced & Skilled Divorce Counsel
Are you considering filing for divorce? Before you do, it is important to consider what lies ahead. Without proper planning and legal guidance, you may find yourself at a disadvantage, risking your financial stability and even your relationship with your children.
That is why working with an experienced divorce attorney during the pre-planning phase is so important. By getting legal advice early on, you can gain a clear understanding of your rights, obligations, and possible outcomes.Don’t let fear of the unknown stand in your way. Our Longmont pre-divorce planning attorneys are here to help you make informed decisions and achieve the best possible outcome.
Our Divorce Pre-Planning Process
Thirty years of experience have shown us that clients who pre-plan and consult with an experienced attorney typically experience less stress and achieve better outcomes. During the pre-planning phase, we will:
Assess your situation: Our Longmont attorneys will evaluate your assets, debts, income, and unique family dynamics. This will give us a full picture of your circumstances and help us develop a customized strategy tailored to your unique needs.
Gather financial documents: During the planning phase, we will help you gather all necessary financial documents, including tax returns, bank statements, property deeds, and anything else critical to the divorce process.
Identify potential issues: We believe in taking a preemptive approach to divorce cases. This ensures we minimize the risk of unexpected challenges or delays.
Develop a strategic plan: Before filing, we will create a detailed plan outlining your goals and priorities. This approach ensures we are well-prepared to negotiate on your behalf, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible outcome.
Take the First Step. We’re Here to Support You
Don’t face the complexities of divorce alone. Whether you need pre-planning support or are ready to move ahead with your divorce, we are here to help. With over 30 years of experience, our Longmont family law team offers the strategies you need to secure a stable future. Contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a divorce cost in Colorado?
Filing Costs
The bare minimum cost for a divorce includes the filing fees. To get divorced, the two spouses may file the petition together and share the filing fee, or one spouse can file the petition, and the other can file a response.
The petition is a request for a divorce and gives the court the information it needs to move forward with the divorce.
The response allows the other spouse to correct any misstated information and object to the information in the petition.
The cost to file a petition is $230, and the cost of filing a response is $116. The court has resources for parties who cannot afford the filing fee.
Mediation Costs
Divorces are complicated, and spouses often need the assistance of a professional to help them sort out all of the issues. The court will order parties to attend mediation with a professional if they are unable to resolve all issues on their own before the court will hold a hearing to decide on these issues for the parties.
Issues include the division of assets and debts, spousal support, parenting time, decision-making responsibility for the children, child support, who will take the family pets, etc.
The cost of mediation ranges from the Colorado Office of Dispute Resolution, which bills at $75 per hour per party ($150/hour per hour total) to private mediators who set their own rates and generally range from $200 to $350 per hour, to retired judges who charge around $300 per hour and up.
The Colorado Office of Dispute Resolution allows parties who cannot afford mediation to apply for reduced rates, as do some private mediators.
Attorney Fees
An experienced family law attorney can handle all aspects of a divorce and guide you through the process. Attorneys generally ask for a retainer and then bill by the hour for their work. You will receive a bill monthly for this work, and most attorneys expect that you will pay your bills in full each month and issue a refund for the retainer at the end of the case.
The hourly rate for attorneys in Northern Colorado ranges from $275-$450 an hour, and typical retainers range from $3,000 to $10,000 but may vary due to the case's complexity.
When should I start pre-divorce planning?
Ideally, you should start pre-divorce planning as soon as you're seriously considering divorce. Early planning gives you time to gather information, consult professionals, and make informed decisions without the pressure of ongoing legal proceedings.
Won't my spouse become suspicious if I start pre-planning?
Pre-planning doesn't mean you're doing anything underhanded. Many steps, like organizing financial documents or seeking counseling, can be framed as general life organization or self-improvement. If you're concerned about your spouse's reaction, consult with an attorney about how to approach planning discreetly and ethically.
What documents should I gather during pre-divorce planning?
We recommend gathering the following:
- Tax returns (last 3-5 years)
- Bank and credit card statements
- Investment and retirement account statements
- Property deeds and mortgage documents
- Vehicle titles and loan information
- Recent pay stubs
- Business financial statements (if applicable)
- Insurance policies
- List of assets and debts
Have Questions? Contact Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C.
At Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C., we understand the complexities and sensitivities surrounding family law matters. Our Longmont family law attorneys are here to provide you with the legal support and guidance you need to work through issues like parenting time, custody, divorce, property division, and more. Your family's well-being is our priority, and we are committed to helping you find the best solutions with competence and compassion. Contact us today!
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