Are you getting out of a bad relationship?
First, congratulations on the decision. Divorce is never a pleasant experience but ending a bad relationship is something to celebrate.
But before you can move on, you need a qualified attorney to represent you. Divorce is complicated and there are tons of ins and outs, benefits, and pitfalls that you have to consider.
So if you need some tips to help you find out if your attorney is the right person to represent you, continue reading. Check out our guide for some questions to ask a divorce attorney Colorado Springs.
- How Many Years of Experience Do You Have?
This question will not only give you an idea of how experienced they may be but will also show their depth of knowledge concerning divorce law. With such a complex and serious process, it is important to ask this question. You need to choose an attorney who is well-versed and confident in their years of experience.
- What Are Your Qualifications?
Make sure that your divorce attorney has a license to practice in the state of Colorado, and ask to see proof of their license. You may also want to ask for any additional training or certifications they may have in the area of divorce law or family law.
- What Types of Resolutions Do You Specialize In?
Some attorneys offer mediation services. They allow parties to come to their resolution without having to go to trial.
Some attorneys specialize in collaborative law. They allow parties to use cooperative methods to create settlements outside of the courtroom.
So it is important to ask your divorce attorney in Colorado Springs what types of resolutions they specialize in. This will give you a good idea of how well they can tailor the resolution to your situation.
- What Documents Do I Need to File?
You need to find out which documents you must complete to file for and obtain a divorce. Depending on your circumstances, this could be a petition, summons, summons by publication, or an answer to a petition. It could also include a financial affidavit, and child support worksheets.
If there is a dispute, your attorney can explain the necessary documents that you need to compile. Knowing the exact documents you need to file and what information must be included are a must. It can help to ensure that the divorce process is efficient and successful.
- What Strategies Will You Use to Help Me?
After hiring a lawyer, you will want to know what approach they take when representing you. You’ll want to know how they plan to handle issues such as child custody, division of assets, alimony, and visitation rights.
Will they work with your spouse’s attorney to negotiate an out-of-court settlement or will they take the case to trial, if necessary? Do they collaborate with mental health professionals to assist with the emotional stress of the divorce?
Ask them to explain the process and strategies to you in a way that is easy to understand. Learn in advance the strategy your attorney will use to help you can make getting divorced less stressful.
- How Are Child Custody and Visitation Arrangements Determined?
In Colorado, the court evaluates what is in the best interest of the children. So ask your attorney what factors the court considers in its determination.
Inquire if the court will consider the wishes of the children when they are old enough to understand and express themselves. And ask if there are any resources, such as parenting classes, that are available to divorced parents to help with the process.
- What Is the Process for Distributing Assets?
You should be aware of the rules regarding the division of assets and understand the fairness of the proposed structure of assets. You also need to find out what factors are important when determining the division of assets.
You need to discuss who is responsible for taxes on the asset and what kind of assets are divided. You should also know who is the ultimate arbiter of the distribution of assets. These questions are important to ensure that you’re getting proper representation.
- How Long Will the Process Take?
When consulting with divorce lawyers in Colorado Springs, you want to be sure and ask them how long the process will take. Every situation is different. And a good lawyer can give you a general timeline but it is still important to inquire how long the process for you will likely take.
Some factors that might affect the duration are assets, custody disputes, mediation, and if the other party contests the divorce. Your attorney might also inform you it can take longer if documents are not filed properly or on time.
- What and How Much Will I Have to Pay?
When it comes to Colorado Springs and the cost of divorce, the questions you need to ask your attorney include: How much will the total cost be? Will there be any additional hidden costs?
Are there any flat fees? Is the cost negotiable? What must I do to ensure I get the best deal?
What are the payment options? Will you be billing me on an hourly basis? Do you accept retainer fees? If so, what is the retainer amount?
You should also inquire about any court costs, document fees, other court-related costs, and any other associated fees. You need to make sure you have a clear understanding of the cost expectations so the divorce won’t bankrupt you.
Hire a Divorce Attorney Colorado Springs Now!
It is wise to have a list of questions prepared to discuss with your divorce attorney Colorado Springs. The more informed you are, the better prepared you are for the divorce process, as well as any challenges that may arise.
You need to protect your rights as much as possible. Part of that is ensuring that you can trust your divorce attorney. So when hiring an attorney, ask as many questions as you want to make the process clear to you.
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Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
