Family law matters can be some of the most emotionally charged and legally complex situations you may face. The legal process can be challenging, and without proper guidance, you may face unnecessary obstacles. No matter the family law issue you are dealing with, having an experienced lawyer can help protect your rights and interests.
At the Law Offices of Shawn H. Smith, we have been providing trusted family law representation for over a decade. Our legal team is committed to helping those in Loveland, Colorado, with their most pressing family law concerns. We understand that every family’s situation is unique; our lead attorney, Shawn H. Smith, provides personalized legal strategies tailored to meet your specific needs. Free initial consultations are also provided.
Family Law Services Offered
Family law includes different legal matters that affect individuals and families. Our law firm provides representation in Loveland cases involving:
- Divorce and legal separation
- Child custody and visitation rights
- Child support and spousal maintenance
- Property and asset division
- Modifications to existing family law orders
- Paternity and parental rights
- Protection orders in cases of domestic violence
Our goal is to help you resolve these legal matters effectively while minimizing your family’s stress and conflict. Whether you need assistance negotiating an agreement or require aggressive representation in divorce court, our lawyers are prepared to advocate for your best interests.
What To Expect From The Family Court Process in Loveland
Family court proceedings in Loveland can be complex, especially if this is your first family law experience. Understanding the process, with help from an experienced attorney, can reduce anxiety and help you prepare for your journey. Here are the main steps typically involved:
Filing Your Case
First, you must file the necessary forms at the Larimer County District Court in Loveland. This court handles divorce cases, custody issues and other family law matters. There is a minimum residency requirement of 91 days and a waiting period of 91 days between filing and the court ruling.
Serving the Other Party
The next step is to serve the legal documents to the other party. They have a legal right to know the case is starting and should be given a chance to respond to the petition. For a divorce, if your spouse is in the state, they have 21 days to respond. That increases to 35 days if they are out of state.
Initial Status Conference (ISC)
Within 42 days after the papers have been filed and served, the court schedules an initial status conference. Both parties must attend the conference to review paperwork, discuss the case and get instructions—often from a judge—regarding the next steps.
Disclosure and Documentation
Full financial disclosures are required from both parties. If children are involved, the parents can also submit a proposed parenting plan, but may be required to attend parenting classes. Courts may ask for documentation relating to income levels, property ownership and assets or child welfare.
Mediation and Temporary Orders
Parties can sometimes use mediation to reach agreements regarding child custody, child support, property division and other contested issues. When couples need immediate arrangements to address these issues, the court can issue temporary orders. For instance, a temporary child custody order may define where the child lives during the divorce case.
Hearings and Settlement Conferences
When there are disputes that could not be handled through mediation, the court can hold hearings to address them. While the court can eventually rule, parents may continue negotiating and submit agreements during this time.
Trial and Final Orders
The case must go to trial if a settlement agreement is impossible on all issues. At trial, the judge hears evidence and considers the issues and the story from each side. They can then issue final orders regarding custody, support, property division and other family law matters. Once an order has been issued, the judge’s decision is legally binding.
Navigating Your Case
The above outlines the general process, but each case is unique. You may be going through this process for the first time, but your attorney’s experience can provide confidence and clarity as you explore your options and legal rights.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Shawn H. Smith?
With over a decade of experience handling family law matters, our firm has built a strong reputation for providing compassionate and skilled legal representation. Our attorneys are committed to providing clear communication, strong advocacy and knowledgeable legal guidance throughout every stage of your case.
As a locally based law firm in Loveland, Colorado, we are deeply familiar with the family court system and the laws that govern family-related legal matters in the state. We are dedicated to helping our clients achieve favorable outcomes while treating them with the respect and attention they deserve.
Take The Next Step
If you need a trusted family law attorney for your legal issue in Loveland, Colorado, we are ready to help. Everyone at the Law Offices of Shawn H. Smith is committed to providing high-quality legal support for individuals and families facing complex legal challenges.
Call 970-387-6858 or use our online contact form today and get started with a free consultation to learn how we can help you with your family law matter.