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12 Jan, 2024 by Nafisa
I was extremely lucky to be represented by Kim Newton. Besides being a smart attorney who is very knowledgeable and resourceful, Kim is an amazing person whose supportive communication gave me a huge confidence in myself while going through a very stressful time. Kim always took her time to thoroughly research the details of my case and respond to opposing counsel in direct and undoubted way. She was always ready to discuss any questions I had regarding my case. The outcome of my case was very satisfying and it is all thanks to Kim’s efforts and her professional skills. I would highly recommend Kim Newton as an outstanding attorney.
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20 Jul, 2023 by David
Kim saved us from a contractor who was trying to take advantage of out of town owners by overinflating his invoice and charging for work not complete on time, and of poor quality! With her help we were able to avoid having to sue him, and settle for an amount fair to us both. She was professional, knowledgeable, and efficient with the time billed for. Hope to not need an attorney in CO again, but if I do, will be calling her first!
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14 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Kim Newton worked on my divorce case, and I couldn’t imagine a better lawyer for my case. She was very responsive and was a strong advocate for me. I felt that she was approachable and made difficult concepts easy to understand, and she was also very efficient and concise, making her quite affordable. I couldn’t be happier and recommend without any hesitation.
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22 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Carolyn and her team did a fantastic job in guiding me through my divorce. Mine was a high conflict situation, and they dealt with that conflict beautifully. I walked in their doors having begun elsewhere, but needing better representation. I stated my exact goals for outcome. One year later, I walked away with the process complete and literally that exact goals met across the board. I could not have asked for a better guide, counselor, and representative during the hardest months of my adult life.
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22 Jan, 2020 by Allysa
Carolyn Witkus represented me on my high-conflict divorce over 30 months, and I continue to work with her post decree. She is flawless in courtroom, delivering the perfect mix of tempered "attack" and empathy for all parties involved. On the legal front, her team delivered perfection; I never worried about filings or deadlines; most often, she and her team reminded me of what needed to be done! She coached me through the injustice that is pervasive in family courts today, and was there for me when I fell apart, helping to keep me together and focused on what was most important: surviving and thriving with my children. She literally saved my children's lives. I would not have survived without her, and I would not send family or friends to anyone other than Carolyn.
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31 Aug, 2017 by Nancy
Ms. Witkus is an outstanding attorney who will not only guide you through the legal divorce process, but will also provide insight and empower you with knowledge. She and her wonderful team consistently provided me with both excellent legal advice, as well as emotional support throughout a very challenging time in my life. Ms. Witkus vast knowledge, experience and excellent reputation among her peers are just a few reasons why I chose her to represent me and I feel it was one of the best decisions I ever made.
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05 Dec, 2014 by Kim
Ron Ron is handling my post-decree legal issues. He completed a complicated Coast Guard title transfer of my sailing yacht, including getting my ex off title. This was difficult because my ex was living in Australia at the time and Ron got the court clerk to sign the Coast Guard documents and worked with the Coast Guard to make the transfer. Ron is now working on gettting my spousal maintenance modified. Ron has been persistent, caring, and thorough in his representation of me. He has demonstrated the highest level of integrity and is remarkably knowledgeable about family law, working with the courts and with the Coast Guard. His office and staff are pleasant, compassionate and responsive. I highly recommend this attorney.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Emilio guardado
Kellian Coggswell and James Nash were great to work with during my divorce. They are quick to respond to questions/concerns and very proactive to keep things moving smoothly. I would definitely recommend them.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Becki romani
After being referred by a friend I was super disappointed in the interaction I had with the receptionist Veronique. Very unprofessional with short responses and super rude attitude. So bummed as I’m sure the lawyers are great but not worth having to speak with that woman throughout the process.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Laura mancini
Robert Perrone and his Paralegal Brittany Ward have been amazing to work with in my child custody case. Robert has been patiently working with me to help alter the trajectory of what has been a very difficult and complex child custody situation. His abundant expertise in family law has left me feeling secure during a truly distressing time. Nothing but respect for this remarkable attorney.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Mikki
If you’re seeking a lawyer who combines fierce advocacy with genuine compassion, look no further than Robert Perrone. From the moment we engaged his services, Robert proved to be a relentless advocate for our family. His tenacity in the courtroom was nothing short of extraordinary—he was a true bulldog in his approach, ensuring that our interests were always at the forefront. What truly sets Robert apart is not just his sharp legal acumen but his dedication to his clients. He generously invested his time to thoroughly understand our unique family dynamics and needs. Every response to opposing counsel was precise and well-crafted, demonstrating his strategic brilliance and deep understanding of the law. Beyond his impressive legal skills, Robert showed a remarkable level of consideration for our family’s emotional and practical needs. His ability to balance aggressive representation with empathy was a beacon of support during a challenging time. He made sure we felt heard and supported throughout the entire process. In short, Robert Perrone is a consummate professional with a rare blend of grit and kindness. We are incredibly grateful for his outstanding service and would wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone in need of a skilled and compassionate family lawyer.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Emilio guardado
Kellian Coggswell and James Nash were great to work with during my divorce. They are quick to respond to questions/concerns and very proactive to keep things moving smoothly. I would definitely recommend them.
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17 Apr, 2024 by Becki romani
After being referred by a friend I was super disappointed in the interaction I had with the receptionist Veronique. Very unprofessional with short responses and super rude attitude. So bummed as I’m sure the lawyers are great but not worth having to speak with that woman throughout the process.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Emilio guardado
Kellian Coggswell and James Nash were great to work with during my divorce. They are quick to respond to questions/concerns and very proactive to keep things moving smoothly. I would definitely recommend them.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Apr, 2024 by Becki romani
After being referred by a friend I was super disappointed in the interaction I had with the receptionist Veronique. Very unprofessional with short responses and super rude attitude. So bummed as I’m sure the lawyers are great but not worth having to speak with that woman throughout the process.
Read more Google Maps
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09 Apr, 2024 by Laura mancini
Robert Perrone and his Paralegal Brittany Ward have been amazing to work with in my child custody case. Robert has been patiently working with me to help alter the trajectory of what has been a very difficult and complex child custody situation. His abundant expertise in family law has left me feeling secure during a truly distressing time. Nothing but respect for this remarkable attorney.
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30 Jun, 2015 by Troy
My personal opinion is that Ashley Opfer and this firm were incompetent in our case. Ms. Opfer is barely two years out of law school but is supposedly the owner of this practice. Was told that we had a very favorable case in family law jurisdictional issue after I paid them specifically for due diligence on the law. They botched it so badly the judge called the case "groundless" and awarded attorneys fees to the other side. When I complained and asked for our fees back, they dropped the case and woukd not meet with me to resolve. I have since filed ethics complaints with the Colorado Supreme Court. I highly recommend avoiding this firm.
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04 Nov, 2014 by Colleen
I went to Stowell PC for an initial consultation and was painted a very pretty picture, I was told my case was open and shut and that it should be easy. I asked what a ballpark figure would be for the cost of my child support modification to be done it, I was told around 1800 dollars but that it could be more. I understood this however when the time came for another retainer to be paid I was only given minimal notice to come up with $2,300. If not paid in this short time frame they would drop me as a client. Also all the things I wanted and was told should be easy to get I did not get. There was a slight increase in the amount of child support I received but by the time I graduate college and go through another child support modification I will have just barely broke even with what the increase was and what I had to pay in legal fees. Also I constantly felt like they were on my ex's side instead of mine. Saying "don't you want the father in her life more?", no i don't, that's part of the reason I'm here! And for the record and just so you know since the modification he is still missing days with her and also has not followed through with the agreement of first refusal, he lies to me often. But now I am completely broke and there is nothing I can do about it.
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24 Oct, 2014 by Tony
If you are looking for a compassionate, responsive, knowledgeable, and highly professional attorney, Ashley Opfer should be on your list to contact. I recently went through my divorce with Ashley as my attorney and I am very lucky to have retained her. Ashely was exceptional in the way that she guided me through the process, she was very complete in the understanding of my concerns and always provided the right answers to my questions. She worked very quickly in her research of all my questions and concerns and was able to put my mind at ease. Ashley was very proficient in vetting all the available options before any decisions were made and was able to clearly articulate to the opposing party what our position was. Ashley always was able to make room at the last minute if I had something urgent that needed to be accomplished. I personally would not think of going to another attorney after the excellent opportunity I had to work with her.
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26 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Diane did a fantastic job navigating a reasonable divorce settlement with my now ex-husband. The opposing lawyer was very rude and dishonorable and my ex continually tried to avoid turning in financial documents. Diane handled this with perfect equanimity and without a lot of wasteful back and forth. The financial documents finally arrived on Easter Sunday...the day before our court date...nonetheless, Diane was fully ready for trial the very next day. We fought a clean fight just as I had asked to do. We won each point that mattered. She was well-prepared, pleasant to work with and absolutely charged appropriately for the work she did. Best of all, I know if the case got tougher, she had the knowledge and will to bust out some serious legal fire-power. This is not a lawyer that opposing lawyers want to see in court. She's smart, tough, well-spoken and unerringly moral. The judges know that and they listen.
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24 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
I used Diane for my divorce. In the very beginning she seemed attentive. Shortly thereafter - not any really work seemed to get done. Even to the point we were coming in for our final hearing and was told she forgot that we needed to go to mediation. Child support is pretty standard in Colorado - so her charges and time in this area were no help here either. Just trying to get the divorce - one should be more actively involved and not forgetting proper steps. She was paid well for her time - i feel I could have navigated through this on my own and saved a pretty penny.
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15 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
Failed to help me obtain a restraining order against my abusive spouse. Failed to present an offer of settlement to opposing counsel. Failed to resolve multiple issues, in a timely manner, resulting in high fees to me. Waited 10 months to file a motion on my ex, for failing to comply with "Discovery". Abandoned me 2 weeks before my divorce hearing. Failed to submit expert testimony 60 days prior to my hearing. Failed to inform me of the 60 deadline, for expert testimony. Failed to obtain the plan discription of my ex's pension plan, giving me erroneous information, in regards to the plan.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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