Family Law Update

Recent Research Indicates Divorce is More Stressful for Younger People

According to Hui Liu, a professor of sociology at Michigan State University, recent research suggests that younger people have fewer coping skills than older people when dealing with the emotional stress associated with the dissolution of marriage. The study indicated that younger people need more support from their families, friends and society as a whole to deal with the emotional aftermath of divorce. There were 1,282 participants of various ages in Liu's research that measured the health status between those who rema …

Carla Scarpone at The Harris Law Firm Is Helping Kids Cope

Carla Scarpone, an attorney with The Harris Law Firm, is on the board for the local chapter of a national non-profit organization, Breakthrough. The mission of Breakthrough is two-fold: first, to increase the educational and social opportunities of motivated, under-resourced, urban, middle school students, through a quality year-round program; and second, to motivate and train talented high school and college students for careers in education.   Breakthrough’s annual fundraising event is called “Give Your Love.”  This year’s event will take place at Kent Den …

A More Kind and Gentle Divorce

It Takes Two.  Rather than blaming your spouse for all the problems in your marriage, seek to discover how you participated in the demise of your relationship. We all need to recognize our own participation in the difficult events of our lives so that we can learn from our mistakes. Don't perceive yourself as a victim during this difficult time, but own your participation in the unraveling of your marriage, and seek to move on as a stronger and healthier individual.   Prepare for a New Life:  Yes, you will need to grieve the end of your marriage, but don't allow you …

Points to Consider Before You File for Divorce:

Preparing for Divorce: 1. Find Out What You Own. Assets and debt are generally divided in an equitable manner. Begin by identifying what you own and what you owe.  Obtain records and statements for the following: Bank Accounts (savings and checking accounts, loans, etc.) Investment Accounts (brokerage and retirement accounts) Insurance Policies Real Estate Records Trust Agreements and Wills Credit Card Records Prenupital or Postnuptial Marital Agreements Records of Law Suits and /or upcoming settlements 2. Establish accounts under your own name.   If your pay …

Helping Your Kids Cope with Legal Separation or Divorce

If your children are having difficulties coping with your separation or divorce, get them some help. Go to the Resource Section of our website and access HELPING KIDS COPE in the drop down box then go to the THERAPISTS tab to find many qualified children's counselors in your area. Or simply click here: http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/resource-center/helping-kids-cope/therapists  

Common Law Marriage Age of Consent

  Common Law Marriage Age of Consent Today you hear numerous couples claiming that they are married under the common law (or possibly disagreeing with one another whether or not they are). Everyone always appears to disagree over the differing requirements, but no one ever seems to discuss at what age you can legally bind into a common law marriage. Most assume that eighteen years of age is the minimum age, but surprisingly the age requirement is much, much younger. In Colorado, the statutory age of consent for ceremonial marriage is eighteen. Nevertheless, persons betwee …

Watch for Our Divorce Recovery Section - Coming Soon!

We will be rolling out our Divorce Recovery section soon!

Can I retain my health insurance benefits on my spouse's plan after we divorce?

  In Colorado Legal Separation and Divorce are accomplished by the same process.  The only difference is at the end of the Legal Separation you are not free to remarry.  In a Legal Separation you have to divide debts and assets as well as make provisions for children the same way you have to in a divorce.  Sometimes health insurance will continue for the spouse with a Legal Separation.  You would have to clarify this with your insurance.  Federal law will not allow people to keep former spouses on health insurance when the divorce is final.

Can you protect the appreciation of separate property from joining the marital estate?

  Can you protect the appreciation of separate property from joining the marital estate?   Yes.     Pursuant to C.R.S. § 14-10-113, the marital appreciation of separate property will normally become part of the marital estate. However, pursuant to C.R.S. § 14-2-304, “parties may contract with respect to disposition of property upon separation of the parties.” The bottom line is that if you form a valid marital agreement then you can protect the appreciation of your separate property from joining the marital estate, and you will not …

Reasons for Supervised Parenting Time

  The courts have various reasons for the implementation of supervised parenting time in the State of Colorado: 1. If a parent has not been actively involved the child’s life and is being introduced or reintroduced, the courts often order that the parenting time be supervised during the early stages of the process. 2. If a parent has a medical issue that could compromise the safety of the child, the courts may order that supervision is necessary.   3. If a parent has been found to be neglectful of the child in the …

Divorce Recovery Class: Sunday, January 22

  Divorce Recovery Class:   Date and time: Sundays starting Jan 22. 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Location: Lafayette. Please call for location. Payment: $350.00.  Credit card, cash or check accepted.  Bring: Water bottle, something to write with, an emergency contact number, and your payment.  Contact: Jeannine 303-499-1987; Jeannine@RebuildingDivorceRecovery.com    Jeannine Lee, CPCC, ACC, GRC, CMHC   Jeannine@jeanninelee.com To RSVP, please call: 303-499-1987 

Can I Obtain Legal Guardianship of My 15 Year Old Sister?

  Guardianships always require the permission of the parent, so an informal guardianship will work as long as the minor child's mother agrees that the child should live with you.  There is a form JDF 751 that allows the mother to delegate to you most of the decision making for the child.  Schools in the Metro area generally allow a child to be enrolled based on this form.  Whether she can be on your health insurance will depend on your health insurance provider.    This type of guardianship is relatively easy, inexpensive and effective.  If the mother ask …

Actor Sean Penn Named as Ambassador at Large to Haiti

Call The Harris Law Firm for Post Decree Matters

If you have a post-decree matter, call The Harris Law Firm at 303 299 9484 to see how one of our 18 family law attorneys can assist you. With offices in Denver and Fort Collins, we can arrange a consultation for you to determine how we can help. To set up a consultation, please call us today.

I filed for the Dissolution of Marriage. Can I Change My Mind?

  After you file for divorce, you can dismiss the petition for the dissolution of marriage with the court   anytime before the other person files a response.    Once a response has been filed,  the two of you must agree to dismiss the petition.  

Are extraordinary expenses for medical expenses added to child support?

Adjustments for health care expenditures for children. (a) In orders issued pursuant to this section, the court shall also provide for the child's or children's current and future medical needs by ordering either parent or both parents to initiate medical or medical and dental insurance coverage for the child or children through currently effective medical or medical and dental insurance policies held by the parent or parents, purchase medical or medical and dental insurance for the child or children, or provide the child or children with current a …

Is My Ex Entitled to the Tax Benefit if He Did Not His Pay Child Support in 2011?

C.R.S. 14-10-115 (13) Emancipation. (a) For child support orders entered on or after July 1, 1997, unless a court finds that a child is otherwise emancipated, emancipation occurs and child support terminates without either party filing a motion when the last or only child attains nineteen years of age unless one or more of the following conditions exist:   (I) The parties agree otherwise in a written stipulation after July …

Consult with an Attorney Before Filing for an Order of Protection

An order of protection will prohibit the restrained party from contacting the protected party, and from coming within a specified distance of the protected person.  13-14-101(2.4) (a), C.R.S.  Contact can be direct or indirect, and behavior such as sending a letter, or leaving a note, or communicating with the protected party through a third person who is not your attorney, or even sending flowers, is a violation that can result in criminal charges.  When a motion for a protection order is filed, the court will conduct an ex parte hearing (a hearing ju …

The Harris Law Firm and The Road To Hope Continues Its Dedication to the Children of Haiti

  In remembrance of the 2-year anniversary of the Haiti quake, Rich Harris of The Harris Law Firm remains dedicated to The Road to Hope.   Denver, CO – January, 2012 - The Road to Hope is a non-profit organization founded by Rich and Lisa Harris dedicated to helping the children of Haiti. They are a 501(c) (3) tax exempt organization. Donations and contributions are tax-deductible as allowed by law. The Road to Hope supports organizations that share their goals of building self-sustaining communities that directly affect the lives of children. Their vision is a Haiti …

Calculating Child Support Using Imputed Income

  Income can be imputed when one parent is not employed because they are begin supported by a new spouse  In order to determine the amount of income to be used in the calculation, you would obtain the highest income they ever received, the income from their most recent job, or you could use minimum wage if the non-working spouse did not have a college degree, significant job training, or much work experience. Currently the monthly income for minimum wage is $1,324.57 You must determine which amount is the most appropriate to calculate support.

What are my rights as a legal guardian?

  § 15-14-201. Appointment and Status of Guardian A person becomes a guardian of a minor by appointment by a parent or guardian by will or written instrument or upon appointment by the court. The guardianship continues until terminated, without regard to the location of the guardian or minor ward.   § 15-14-208. Powers of Guardian (1) Except as otherwise limited by the court, a guardian of a minor ward has the powers of a parent regarding the ward's support, care, education, health, and welfare. (2) A guardian may: (a) Apply for and receive money for the support of …

Siblings to Sue Adams County Social Services for Failure to Protect Them

DENVER (AP) - The Colorado Court of Appeals has ruled that three siblings can sue Adams County social workers over their alleged failure to protect them from abuse. The children were preteens when they told adoptive parents they were severely abused in the home of their biological mother and later in foster care. According to the Denver Post, the adoptive parents lost a lawsuit against Adams County over claims that social workers had a duty to disclose the children's background. Thursday's ruling allows lawyers for the children to proceed with claims that the children had a right to be free …

If you are married to a narcissist:

Published on February 7, 2011 by Karyl McBride, Ph.D. in The Legacy of Distorted Love   While there is some truth that who we marry reflects our own emotional development, there is also a different and more complicated flavor involved when one is drawn into a narcissist's world. For instance, Mark and Marcy married. They had two children. Mark continually emotionally abused Marcy throughout the marriage as well as the children. He had no emotional connection to the children and they were not attached to him. Marcy was the psychological parent and always has been. Then Marcy dec …

Divorce Recovery Class on Sunday, January 15th

  Sunday, January 15th from 6:00pm to 9:00pm Location: Cairn Christian church * Lafayette Reduced Price: $375.00. Payment plans available. Jeannine Lee, CPCC, ACC, GRC, CMHC   303-499-1987  http://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanninelee Jeannine@rebuildingdivorcerecovery.com   …

My former spouse is still paying on a life insurance policy on me. Is that legal?

  Generally wills, beneficiary designations on accounts such as retirement plans and insurance policies that have the spouse as beneficiary are revoked upon divorce.  This means that if a person forgets to change the spouse as the beneficiary on the retirement plan, the spouse would not inherit, but the contingent beneficiary or estate would receive the benefit.  If you remember the name of the insurance company, you may be able to talk to them about the policy.  If you bought the policy through a broker or sales person, you may be able to check with them.  Check the …

Colorado legislator's new bill proposes a cooling-off period prior to filing for divorce

Posted: 01/03/2012 01:00:00 AM MST Updated: 01/03/2012 08:13:15 AM MST By Lynn Bartels The Denver Post     A state lawmaker who wants to make it more difficult for parents to divorce said he initially had no idea that legislators a decade ago killed a similar proposal dubbed the "Dr. Laura" bill. Sen. Kevin Lundberg, R-Berthoud, said he believes his proposal stands a better chance because it makes exceptions, such as in cases of domestic violence or sexual abuse. The bill would require parents who have minor children and are considering divorce to …

Accessing Your Divorce Records

  The Office of the State Registrar of Vital Statistics operates a web site where the general public may access information regarding marriages and divorces. Colorado treats these records as confidential because of identity theft concerns so you must apply to the State Vital Records office for official Marriage or Divorce verification.                          The application lists eligible recipients of the record, which includes relatives and organizations with a f …

Before you name your child, take a look at this list!

This week the Pope declared war on parents naming babies after celebrities, fruit or popular sports cars. In an address to parents, the ever-progressive pontiff pleaded with worshipers to 'give your children names that are in the Christian calendar'. So Apple, Brooklyn and Ferrari are out, Francisco and Giulia are in.   But Benedict's not the only authority figure to stamp down on one of the sillier by-products of celebrity culture. The following names have all been banned around the world for reasons of taste, decency or just plain daftness. 1) Talula Does The Hula …

Colorado Post Decree Matters: Modifying the Parenting Plan Based on Relocation

  If you are relocating out of the State of Colorado, and want to take your child with you, you must first file in Colorado to modify the court ordered parenting time before you move. Before ruling on a relocation case, the court will consider the following: Your reasons for relocating to another state Why you believe that it is in the child's best interests to accompany you, rather than stay in CO with the other parent. The objections of the child's other parent to the proposed relocation …

Get Your Marriage Back on Track in 2012!

When you and your spouse are experiencing problems in your marriage, consider relationship counseling to discuss your issues. Calling your family therapist should be your first call and calling your family law attorney should be your last one!  Dont ignore the problems in your marriage, but work through them by addressing the issues with a professional trained to help. For a list of qualified therapists in your area, go to the Saving Your Marriage section of our website, and have a happy new year in 2012!

Be a Better Co-Parent in 2012!

1. Try not to criticize your child's other parent. You and your ex will never parent your children in the same way, so at some point you must accept this fact and move on. Try not to be so judgmental 2. Your kids need you to accept their other parent. In time your children will know why you divorced. There is no need to share the details with them. Let your kids love and respect their other parent, and have a meaningful relationship with them. Remember that a less than adequate spouse can often be a very good parent. 3. Be the parent you …

Arnold and Maria Back on Track?

  Report: Maria Shriver and Arnold Schwarzenegger’s marriage may not be terminated after all.  According to TMZ, Shriver is having doubts about pursuing a divorce, which she filed for on July 1 of this year. According to TMZ’s source, Shriver is torn because her strong religious beliefs do not recognize divorce. To make things more complicated, Schwarzenegger desperately wants her back, and has reportedly been ”extremely sweet” to her since their split, showering her with gifts. The couple spent Christmas together wi …

Consider Your Financial Situation Before You File for Divorce!

Consider Your Financial Situation Before You File for Divorce! •If you have been living on two incomes, consider that you will be living on your own resources following the divorce. •If the bulk of your marital assets are in real property or a business, it will take time to obtain your portion of those assets after the divorce is final •Divorce proceedings can be complex, and you will need to have enough cash to live on until you and your ex-spouse reach an agreement. Before you file for divorce, make sure that you have enough assets to live on your …

Post Decree Modifications During the Holiday Season

The holidays often trigger legal issues that include disagreements regarding parenting time and unpaid child support, and/or maintenance. If you have a post decree matter that you would like to discuss with a Colorado family law attorney, please give us a call at The Harris Law Firm. You can contact us at 303 299 9484 to schedule a private consultation. We will be available online over the holidays.

Divorce Amongst the Elderly

                  While I don’t have hard data to prove this, The Harris Law Firm is certainly seeing more and more “gray” divorces.   And, these cases bring with them some unique challenges.                 In my opinion, we lack verifiable evidence to support the current rates of divorce, much less divorce amongst the elderly. In fact, the U.S. Census has only recently begun tracking divorce …

Wife of Kobe Bryant has Filed for Divorce in California

  Tired of his infidelities, Vanessa Bryant, wife of Basketball Star Kobe Bryant, has filed for the dissolution of marriage in California after 10 years of marriage. In a comunity property state, Vanessa is very likely to be entitled to 50% of Kobe's annual earnings for the last decade. The LA Lakers star is expected to earn in excess of $25 million in 2011. THe couple never filed a pre-nuptial agreement. Vanessa is being represented by Laura Wasser, who recently represented Kim Kardashian in her divorce from athlete Kris Humphries. According to the petition …

A Great Holiday Gift for Mothers and Daughters!

"Wisdom and Recipes" is a new book for mothers and daughters by Colorado author Heidi Culbertson. This volume is a must read new book for young women who are starting to grow up and become more independent. Written for women, and specifically for mothers and daughters, this wise little volume full of practical wisdom and fabuous recipes. It is a book to treasure that will serve as an ongoing and gentle reminder from mothers to daughters that says, "Remember all that I taught you, be careful out there and don't forget to eat!." Wisdom …

Do you have a child support or parenting time issue in Northern Colorado?

Call Colorado's Family Law Team! The Harris Law Firm now has offices in Denver and Fort Collins. We handle divorce, legal separation, post decree issues, as well as matters regarding child support and parenting time. If you have a case in Northern Colorado, call us to schedule a consultation:  303 299 9484

Colorado Family Law for Those in the Medical Profession

The Harris Law Firm has 18 attorneys who focus on Colorado family Law. John Tatlock, Special Counsel to the firm, and Associate Attorney, Elizabeth Howard have had many clients with domestic relations issues who work in medicine. With their clients varying work schedules, both John and Elizabeth have had success in crafting parenting plans that take into account the sometimes irregular employment schedule of those who are health professionals. If you are in the medical field, and have a family law matter, call Colorado's Family Law Team at 303 299 9484. We are here to help.

The Etiquette of Social Media During and After Divorce

1. Do Not Attack Your Ex Via Social Media:  You will never regret maintaining your online poise and dignity during times of high stress and emotionalism. 2. Remove Former Comments: Remove any comments that you made on your ex's profile or photos. Even the most of positive posts can sometimes cause confusion for you and for your ex when beginning new relationships. 3. Using the Block Feature: If you are not on good terms with your ex, and they are using Facebook to upset you, simply use t …

The Recession and Your Divorce

Recession and Divorce Thirty-eight percent of couples considering divorce or separation have postponed those plans due to the recession, according to a study released earlier this year by the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia. The reason? Divorce is expensive, and with the economic downturn, families don't have the money necessary to start over. Those couples who choose to go through with divorces are facing new financial challenges, such as determining what to do with upside-down mortgages or establishing individual credit in a tougher regulatory environment. Here a …

Dear Mom and Dad:

I know you are divorcing, and you say that it is best, but please let me tell you what I need from you during this sad and confusing time: I need you both, so please stay involved in my life. Your presence makes me feel safe. If we cannot see each other every day, please call, Skype, call, email, text and/or write letters, and ask me lots of questions. When you are involved in my life, I feel loved. Don’t argue, bicker and fight, but instead, try to agree on matters related to me. When you fight about me, I feel that your argument is my fa …

Candace Bushnell, Author of "Sex and the City", has Filed for Divorce in New York City

NEW YORK, Dec. 6 (UPI) -- "Sex and the City" scribe Candace Bushnell has filed for divorce from ballet dancer Charles Askegard after nine years of marriage, the New York Post said. Bushnell, 53, allegedly discovered after starting divorce proceedings that Askegard, 43, was having an affair with ballerina Georgina Pazcoguin, his frequent collaborator.   It is unclear at this time if Ms Bushnell and Mr. Askegard have a prenuptial agreement, or if Mr . Askegard will be dancing again in the Nutcracker. Read more: http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/TV/2011/12/06/Bushnell- …

Dividing Debt After the Divorce

According to ex-bankruptcy judge and lawyer R. Glen Ayers, "Most divorce decrees allocate liabilities for pre-divorce obligations between the former spouses. So, the husband agrees or is ordered to pay certain credit card obligations and similar debts. The wife may agree or be ordered to pay a car note or some other debts. While the divorce decree may allocate responsibility between the spouses, that decree does not release either spouse from the obligation to the creditor." In other words, while your decree may specify who is to pay what, it does not release either of you from your …

Call The Harris Law Firm to Discuss Post Decree Modifications

If you have a parenting plan that needs to be modified or enforced, call The Harris Law Firm to arrange a consultation with one of our 18 family law attorneys in Denver or Fort Collins.

Divorce and The Holidays

You would not think that the holidays would spur an upward trend in the filing of family law matters in Colorado, but it is one of the busiest times of the year for domestic relations attorneys. If you are experiencing a family law issue and would like to speak to one of 18 attorneys at The Harris Law Firm, please give us a call. We will be happy to arrange a consultation for you right away. Please call Heidi Culbertson at 303 299 9484

Do You Have a Child-Related Legal Matter in Colorado?

Colorado Child Support and Parenting Time: As a preliminary matter, in Colorado the commonly used term "custody" has been statutorily replaced with the legally mandated term "allocation of parental responsibility." The legal term “parental responsibility” encompasses both parenting time and decision-making responsibilities. Colorado law favors meaningful and continuing contact between both parents and the child following a divorce. Couples that go through a divorce usually arrive at a parenting plan in one of two ways: Either the parties come to an agree …

Helping Kids Cope with Divorce

1998 - Random House - Paperback - 1st Edition Helping Your Kids Cope with Divorce the Sandcastles Way By M. Gary Neuman L.M.H.C. With Patricia Romanowski New - Collectible Divorce is painful and confusing. Perhaps now more than ever, you want to give your child all the love, support, and guidance he or she needs, but everything seems harder and more complicated. Helping Your Kids Cope with Divorce the Sandcastles Way can help. Based on Gary Neuman's phenomenally successful Sandcastles program, which has helped more than fifty thousand children cope with divorce, th …

If you have a family law matter in Boulder, CO, give us a call!

The Harris Law Firm handles family law cases in counties throughout Metro Denver, as well as Boulder, El Paso, Fort Collins, and counties throughout the State of CO. If you would like to speak with an attorney at the firm about your CO family law matter, give us a call at 303 299 9484

This New Book is the Perfect Holiday Gift Idea for Mothers and for Daughters!

"Wisdom and Recipes" is a new book for mothers and daughters by Colorado author Heidi Culbertson. This volume is a must read new book for young women who are starting to grow up and become more independent. Written for women, and specifically for mothers and daughters, this wise little volume full of practical wisdom and fabuous recipes. It is a book to treasure that will serve as an ongoing and gentle reminder from mothers to daughters that says, "Remember all that I taught you, be careful out there and don't forget to eat!." Wisdom …

Attorney Jennie Wray Handles CO Family Law Cases for Military Personnel

This case represents a victory for military members and how the Court system can accomplish the right thing with good lawyering. This was an allocation of parental rights case(APR), and both parties are in the military. The Father stationed in Florida, and the Mother lives in Colorado.  Back in February 2011, the Mother, who is the opposing party. filed her APR regarding a 6 month old child.  The Mother was extremely restrictive regarding what, if any, time she would allow the Father to have.  She insisted if he wanted parenting time, it must be supervi …

Attorney-Client Relationship as it Pertains to the Guardian Ad Litem

  People v. Gabriesheski¸ ___ P.3d _____ (Colo. 2011)               In this criminal case involving sexual assault on a child, the Colorado Supreme Court held that no attorney-client relationship existed between a child and a guardian ad litem.               With all due respect to the majority, Justice Maritnez’s Dissent (in which Justice Bender joins) is far more persuasive, well reasoned, and truly representative of the role of the Guardian ad Litem. …

Stephen Vertucci, Esq., a Volunteer with Meals on Wheels in Fort Collins

  Stephen Vertucci, Partner with The Harris Law Firm, is a proud Meals on Wheels volunteer in Fort Collins through his involvement with the Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary Club.  Stephen recently delivered meals to eight Fort Collins residents who have various medical needs.  The Harris Law Firm is proud to be a part of such an important program!

Carla Scarpone Named "Up and Coming Attorney for 2012"!

Carla Scarpone Named "Up and Coming Attorney for 2012" by Law Week Colorado! The Harris Law Firm congratulates Carla on receving this honor!  If you have a family law matter in the State of Colorado and want to meet with Carla Scarpone, Esq., you can schedule a consultation with her by calling 303 299 9484

Divorce or Legal Separation in Northern Colorado?

Call The Harris Law Firm to schedule an appointment with Stephen Vertucci, a partner with the firm and the manager of the Fort Collins office. He and/ or Claire Kauffman, Esq. will meet with you to discuss your case and your rights and options according to Colorado law. If you have a family law matter in Weld or Larimer counties, or in Loveland, Greeley, Longmont, Boulder, or Windsor, call us at 303 299 9484

This New Book is a Must Read for Any Woman Who Has Left a Difficult Relationship

The Tragic Kingdom by Colorado author Gloria Kennedy, and wonderfully illustrated by Jackie Penny, is every woman's story. It is a tale of love and loss but this time with a happy ending for the princess! Whimsical and inspiring, a great holiday gift for your women friends. To obtain a copy, email the author at gjkennedy55@gmail.com

Call a Therapist First!

If you are experiencing marital strife, calling a family law attorney should be your last phone call, not your first one! Begin by talking with a qualified therapist together to discuss how you two can get your marriage back on track. Honest and open communication is the key to a happy relationship, and a counselor may be able to help you both to start sharing again. Go to the Saving Your Marriage section of our site to find the names of therapists, or talk to a trusted friend who may be able to recommend a counselor for you.

Do You Have a Family Law Matter in Northern Colorado?

The Harris Law Firm has an office in Fort Collins. To arrange a meeting to discuss your legal matter, call us 303 299 9484 to arrange a consultation in our Fort Collins office

Stephen Vertucci Presents Rotary Award to Police Officer Carrie Wills

Stephen Vertucci, Partner with The Harris Law Firm, presented the Rotary Emergency Services Award to Fort Collins Police Office Carrie Wills this week.  The award, created to recognize outstanding service by a Fort Collins or Larimer County Police Officer, Sherriff’s Deputy, Fire Fighter, or Paramedic, is presented to an individual who exhibited outstanding courage or bravery in an emergency situation.  This year’s recipient, Officer Carrie Wills, was the first responder when a 49 year old man contacted 911 reporting he was going to commit  suicide and that he had se …

Keep Your Kids Safe on Halloween!

Tips for parents to share with children about trick-or-treating: Cross at intersections only Never cross a street by walking between parked cars Before crossing, look left, right and then left again, and remember to also listen for traffic Wear light-colored or reflective clothing at night If there is no sidewalk available, walk as far off the roadway as possible on the side of the road, facing oncoming traffic Obey all traffic signs and signals Carry a flashlight during the evening hours

Congratulations to Carla Scarpone - Up and Coming Lawyer for 2012

Carla Scarpone, a family law attorney with The Harris Law Firm, was named as an Up and Coming Lawyer for 2012 by Law Week Colorado! The Harris Law Firm congratulates Carla on receiving this honor! Ms. Scarpone handles family law cases through out the State of Colorado,  and deals with legal matters that include the dissolution of marriage (divorce), legal separation, the allocation of parental rights (child support and parenting time),  and post decree modifications. To  contact Carla, please call 303 299 9484 to schedule a consultation

Ryann Peyton on Board of Directors for the Colorado GLBT Bar Association

Ryann Peyton, a family law attorney at The Harris Law Firm, and the recipient of the Up and Coming Lawyers award from Law Week Colorado in 2011, handles the firm's family law cases for the GLBT community. If you would like to schedule a consultation with Ryann Peyton to discuss a domestic partnership or cohabitation agreement, the allocation of parental rights, dissolution mediation, a donor insemination or surrogacy contract, a health care directive or power of attorney, please call The Harris Law Firm at 303 299 9484 and ask for a member of our New Client Development Team to arrang …

The Harris Law Firm and the CBA Working to Help Military Service Members

The Harris Law Firm has, for the past several years, participated in the American Bar Association’s Military Pro Bono Project.  We are often called on to offer legal advice to JAG officers assisting military members stationed around the world who have family law issues.   As an adjunct to this project, the CBA is starting an initiative to promote pro bono service for military members on a statewide basis.  This effort is being spearheaded by Supreme Court Justice Bender, and The Harris Law Firm will be an active participant on the panel for this proje …

Medical Marijuana Use is Not Necessarily Endangerment

  In re Marriage of Parr & Lyman, 240 P.3d 509, 512 (Colo.  App. 2010)   Rule:  Medical marijuana use is not necessarily endangerment   Facts:  Father agreed to a parenting plan with a UA  requirement to ensure he didn’t use marijuana.  A week after he signed the parenting plan, and the same day the judge entered the decree,  the State approved his medical marijuana application.  He filed a pro se motion to remove the UA provision from the parenting plan, but the magistrate denied his motion.  He filed a timely motion for ma …

Post Decree Relocation Cases in Colorado? Call The Harris Law Firm

If you are considering moving out of state, and need to readdress your current parenting plan, call The Harris Law Firm. We have attorneys in our Denver and Fort Collins offices who can work with you to discuss the modification of the allocation of parental rights and the best interests of your child(ren). To schedule a consultation, call 303 299 9484

On Broken Hearts, Pricey Jewelry, and Contract Law

  Are Diamonds Really Forever?   The giving of an engagement ring in anticipation of marriage has been a long held and universal tradition in western culture. While popular culture has highlighted the romantic act of giving an engagement ring, never have we been privy to the legal fights which occur when the engagement falls apart. When the promise of marriage never comes true, who gets to keep the engagement ring?   Although Colorado is a “no fault” state when it comes to seeking a divorce, when it comes to keeping the engagement ring, the person responsible fo …

The Harris Law Firm Handles Family Law Cases in Northern Colorado

If you have a Colorado Family Law matter in Weld or Larimer Counties, or Loveland, Longmont, Boulder, Windsor or Greeley, call The Harris Law Firm! You can reach us at 303 299 9484 to schedule a consultation with Partner Stephen Vertucci or Associate Attorney Claire Kauffman today. The Harris Law Firm handles cases involving divorce, custody, modifications, post decree matters, step parent adoption, maintenance, spousal support, orders of protection (restraining orders), pre-nupital agreements, marital agreements, high conflict and high profile cases, mediation, and family law f …

Fort Collins Family Law Attorney Helps Kids in Northern Colorado

Stephen Vertucci, Partner with The Harris Law Firm, recently presented 3rd grade students at St. Joseph Catholic School in Fort Collins with hard cover, color dictionaries as a part of the Rotary Read Committee of which he is a member.  “Rotary Read” is committed to promoting literacy among children in Northern Colorado.  Over the summer, the Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary Club sold over 60,000 Palisade western slope peaches to raise funds to purchase enough dictionaries so that every 3rd grade student in the Poudre Valley School District would receive the very own diction …

The Harris Law Firm Supports the Women and Children of The Haven

The Harris Law Firm supported the women and children of The Haven at a fundraiser on October 18th at the Denver Athletic Club. The Haven is an 89-bed Modified Therapeutic Community (MTC) located in Denver, Colorado for women, mothers and their infants. Licensed by the Colorado Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division (ADAD), the program offers long-term, intensive treatment for clients with addictions. Clients are referred from the Department of Human Services, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), the criminal justice system, homeless shelters, friends and family members, or through self-re …

Divorce or Custody Matter in Northern Colorado?

If you have a Colorado family law matter in Weld or Larimer counties, or in Loveland, Longmont, Boulder, Windsor, or Fort Collins, please call The Harris Law Firm. We will arrange a consultation with partner Stephen Vertucci, or associate Clair Kauffman for you to discuss your case so that you can understand your rights and options according to Colorado law. You can reach The Harris Law Firm at 303 299 9484

Carla Scarpone, Esq., Discusses Domestic Violence at Denver University

Carla Scarpone, an associate attorney with The Harris Law Firm, will join a panel discussion with The University of Denver’s Public Interest Law Group The topic of discussion is "The Current State of Domestic Violence Law in Colorado"   Please join us on Thursday, October 13th starting at Denver University at 5:30pm in Room 165   Speakers Also include: Judge Angela Arkin Professor G. Kristian Miccio Assistant County Attorney Julie Thomerson,  

Creating Consistency Can Bring Comfort to Your Child

Creating daily schedules and consistent organization in the lives of younger children can bring them comfort during your divorce. Although this concept is widely recognized in the world of child psychology, many parents are unware that the implementation of routines are also helpful to  older children as well. Consistency makes people, and especially children,  feel safer and more secure because they know what to expect. Knowing that routines are in place, even when have to go between the homes of their parents, ca …

Business Valuation in Divorce Cases

On Oct 11th, John Tatlock presented a CLE to Arapahoe County Bar Assocation on business valuation in divorce cases. In many divorces, a critical issue in the division of property between the spouses will be the value of any business that is a marital asset, whether shares in a corporation, membership interests in a limited liability company, general or limited partnership interests, or the value of a sole proprietorship, such as a consulting business, etc. Call us  to arrange a consultation with John Tatlock, Special Counsel for The Harris Law Firm to discuss valuation methods, …

Free GLBT Family Planning Seminar from 12 to 1 on Wednesday, Oct 19th

Please join Ryann Peyton, Esq for a Free GLBT Family Planning Seminar from 12 to 1 on Wednesday, Oct 19th at The Harris Law Firm 1125 17th Street Suite 1820 Denver, CO 80202 303 299 9484 Please call to RSVP

Is Ashton Kutcher Channeling Former Two and Half Men Star Charlie Sheen?

Actress Demi Moore has allegedly consulted with a California divorce attorney to discuss the possible dissolution of marriage from her husband of 6 years, Ashton Kutcher.  Apparently some very damaging photos of Ashton in a partying mode were released to the press, and Demi is not happy.  However, the couple was recently photographed linked arm in arm  in Los Angeles on Friday night while attending services at the Kabbalah Centre. Let's hope that Ashton was just temporarily channeling Charlie Sheen, the former star of Two and Half Men …

When You File for Divorce You Can Mediate, Litigate, or Collaborate

When you file for divorce, your options are litigation, mediation and the Collaborative Divorce Practice.    The divorce process for each option is the same, but the methods are quite different.    The Collaborative Divorce: This method will combine collaborative divorce attorneys, and, if necessary, a team of professionals to assist you through the divorce process. These can include financial experts, mental health professionals, divorce coaches, etc. To begin the Collaborative Process, divorcing parties must agree in writing that yo …

If You Decide to Live Together, Protect Yourselves with a Cohabitation Agreement

A study by the Pew Research Center found that 39 percent of Americans think that living together is better than getting married. A recent census report found that 7.5 million heterosexual couples lived together in 2010, up 13 percent from 2009.  And as the number of couples choosing to live together rather than marry has increased dramatically, so have the court battles created by their break-ups. The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers found that almost half of its 1,600 members are seeing an increase in litigation between cohabiting couples. Nearly …

What Happens When Your Ex Becomes Your Roommate?

  Couples often endure their marriages because of the kids, but now they often live together following their divorce because of the house. Before the economic downturn and the collapse of the real estate market, couples sold the house, divided the equity and moved on. Now with tight financial sitations, couples are having to rethink "moving on" and are staying together in the marital home as roommates. Although this is a less than ideal arrangement, it is important to be realistic about your options. When faced with this arrangement, try to&n …

Wise Advice to Those with Family Law Issues: Stay Cool!

By Kevin Massaro, Of Counsel to The Harris Law Firm: One of the best attributes a client can have in a family law situation, be it divorce or assignment of parental responsibilities (APR), or a post decree matter, is simply keeping cool. These matters are emotionally charged, even in the best of cases.  Your ex will do something you don’t like, guaranteed.  It may be that you think the new boyfriend is a derelict, or you think that having a six year old kid ride a four-wheeler with grandpa is dangerous, or you may just be sick of hearing his/her voice.  And often, your e …

Planning for the Changes and Challenges that are Inherent in Divorce

Filing for divorce will alter every aspect of a person's life, and it's aftermath will affect your finances,  your family dynamics, and even those within your social circle. You must prepare for the fact that ending your relationship will create on ongoing series of difficult challenges.  Before you file for divorce, consider the following issues. 1. Consider the number of people in your life who will be  affected by your divorce: you and your spouse, your children, your families, your friends, your neighbors, an …

What it takes to stay married.....

 Author Iris Krasnow interviewed 200 women who have been married from 15 to 70 years to determine how they have stayed  married in a culture where 50% of all marriages end in divoce. Her new book, The Secret Lives of Wives: Women Share What It Really Takes To Stay Married is coming out in early October.

Two Ways to Avoid Divorce Court

There are two effective methods to avoid the ongoing bitterness associated with divorces that go to trial. 1. A Collaborative Divorce allows each spouse to have an attorney, but both spouses and their lawyers agree in writing not to go to court. 2. In Divorce Mediation, a trained neutral party works with the spouses to create their own agreement. The resulting document is called a Memorandum of Understanding. Collaborative law and divorce mediation are two ways that allow divorcing parties to work together. These processes reduce conflict and often create the founda …

Please Become a Fan of The Harris Law Firm on Our NEW FACEBOOK Page!

    http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Harris-Law-Firm-PC/172565999450362?ref=ts     Thanks for being a friend of The Harris Law Firm!   Attention Harris Friends! The Harris Law Firm has a new Facebook account! Please "Like" us on our new page:

Divorce or Child Custody Issues in Loveland, Weld or Larimer Counties?

If you have a Colorado Family Law issue and you would like to obtain quality legal representation, call The Harris Law Firm, Colorado's Family Law Team. Please contact partner Steve Vertucci or associate Claire Kaufman to schedule a consultation in our Fort Collins office at 123 North Collins in the Excecutive Suite.   If you have a  legal matter in Fort Collins, Longmont, Windsor, Loveland, Greeley, or in Larimer or Weld counties  that includes divorce, legal separation, custody, child support, maintenance, step-parent adoption, …

Man Faces 18 Year Prison Term for Vandalizing His Ex Wife's Home

  58-year-old Ronald Dean Smith was was accused of breaking into his ex-wife’s Stapleton home in September 2010 and pouring bleach into the baby grand piano, leaving cleat marks on her hardwood floor, and placing uncooked chicken in the heating vents of her house.  The court found Mr. Smith guilty Wednesday of breaking into his ex-wife's house and causing thousands of dollars in damages to her home. The court convicted of second-degree burglary and criminal mischief, both felonies.     Acc …

Divorce After Long-Term Marriages is Becoming More Common

Most couples file for divorce after they have been together from 3 to 15 years. But divorce among those who have been married for 20 years or more is becoming more and more common. The reasons for divorce among those who have had long term marriages vary, but some of the things most often heard by divorce attorneys include the following: Affairs, emotional distance, lack of companionship, and finances play major roles in divorce. Sometimes one of the parties is just emotionally and psychologically ready to be on their own. When the kids "leave the nest&q …

Save Your Marrage by Adopting Positive Behaviors:

  How to Save Your Marriage: Ø  Be Dependable: Healthy relationships are based on trust. Be true to your word and be someone who your partner can count on. Ø Don't be Jealous: Jealousy is the kiss of death in a relationship. Like envy, jealousy is an emotion that only furthers divisiveness between parties. Ø Forgive: Everyone is going to disappoint you at some point during the course of your relationship. Learn to forgive, and hope that your partner will do the same for you. Ø Be Romantic: Men and women need to keep …

Be a Good Role Model for Your Children

According to Bill McLeod, author of "KICKIN BUTT AS A SINGLE PARENT", divorced parents should always seek to be good role models for their children. He says, "children may not always listen to you, but they will never fail to imitate you." You can pick up a copy of Bill's book at Amazon.com

Your Credit Card Agreement Trumps Your Divorce Decree

A Colorado divorce decree is a legal, binding document. However, if you signed a credit card agreement, or a loan document,  stating that you agree to the terms of financial responsibility, then you are financially obligated to pay, regardless what your divorce decree may state.  If you find yourself in this situation, the credit card company doesnt want to hear the terms of your divorce decree, they just want to be paid. So if your spouse was court -ordered to pay the debt, and has not done so, this is a matter for your family law attorney to address.

Do Not Obtain Divorce Advice from Friends, Family or Non-Divorce Professionals

  Typically, all an unhappy spouse has to do is breathe the word “divorce,” and everyone they know begins to share their personal experiences, offer opinions and give well-meaning advice. While their intentions are good, and it is natural that those around you will want to provide comfort and support,  it is important to remember that everyone's situation is different and everyone's divorce will be unique. It is also important to realize that your state's divorce laws are subject to change, and family law differs widely from state to state. …

Congratulations to John Tatlock!

          Congratulations to John Tatlock, Special Counsel to The Harris Law Firm, for being selected for membership in the Doyle Inn of Court as a “Master,” an attorney with more than 13 years experience in active practice.

Become a Fan of The Harris Law Firm on Our New Facebook Page!

Become a Fan of The Harris Law Firm on Our New Facebook Page! Attention Harris Friends:? As of September 23rd, The Harris Law Firm will be closing our Facebook account, and creating a new business account!? Please "Like" us and become a fan of the Firm on our new Facebook page!   http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Harris-Law-Firm-PC/172565999450362?ref=ts)  

Marriage Rates per the US Census

Year Marriages Population Rate per 1,000 total population 2009 2,080,000 306,803,000 6.8 2008 2,157,000 …

"Bad Mothering" Lawsuit Dismissed

 Margaret Walker, a Senior Attorney at The Harris Law Firm commented the following article from the Chicago Tribune, and addresses the degree of harm that can be caused by one parent attempting to alienate their children's other parent: "This shows how far some parents would go to inflict pain on the other parent.  There is no way to imagine the pain that has been inflicted on the children, however. Children can thrive during and after a divorce if parents work together to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.  Children can be reduced to …

Don't Forget to Take Care of You While Taking Care of Your Kids

Yes, divorce is hard on your kids too, but remember to take good care of yourself while you are all experiencing this tremendous loss of family. When you take care of yourself, you will have the strength and optimism necessary to share with your kids during this trying time. Take time with your friends, talk to a counselor, and  try to schedule some alone time to reflect and to strategize. You must stay strong, or you will not be able to be the parent your children need you to be.

Filing for Divorce in Loveland, or Larimer or Weld Counties?

The Harris Law Firm has a Fort Collins office at 123 North College. Call 303 299 9484 to schedule a consultation today!

New Book is a Great Gift Idea for Mothers and Daughters!

"Wisdom and Recipes – Things I Would Have Shared with My Daughter" is a new "MUST READ" book written for mothers and daughters. More specifically, it is intended for mothers to share with their daughters as they begin to grow up and become more independent. Before your daughter leaves home to make her own way in the world, the wisdom and recipes contained in this volume may serve as a gentle reminder from you that says, “Remember all that I taught you, be careful out there, and don't forget to eat!” Denver, CO (PRWEB) July 21, 2011 A Colorado …

Partner Stephen Vertucci Handles Family Law Cases in Fort Collins

If you have a domestic relations matter and are seeking legal counsel in Weld, Larimer or Boulder counties, please give us a call to arrange for a consultation with Stephen Vertucci. Mr. Vertucci is a partner with The Harris Law Firm and handles divorce and custody issues from our Fort Collins office. Call us at 303 299 9484 to arrange a consultation

Never Bad Mouth Your Ex to Your Kids

According to Bill McLeod, Colorado author of the new book "KICKIN' BUTT AS A SINGLE PARENT", it is important to spare your child's feelings by never making disparaging remarks about their other parent. Although that person may be your loathsome former partner, it is important to remember that he or she is also  your child's mom or dad. According to Bill, when you say unpleasant things about your ex in front of the children, they will remember your unfortunate comment long after you have forgotten it. Know that …

Would You Use a Reconciliation Service?

Decades ago, common advice to divorcing couples was "try to work it out". People used to understand that life was cyclical and chances were high that a couple could get their relationship back on track if they stayed together. But in a culture that elects presidents based on "change", people now seem to think that good relationships can be found anywhere from the internet to the local pub. Based on this concept,  when our current relationship goes awry, we simply create a new one. A recent survey in Minneapolis interviewed 2500 c …

Is there a bright side to divorce?

For those going through it, divorce has a bright side. Regardless of cause or outcome, divorce provides an opportunity and incentive to re-invent one’s self as a person and a parent, to re-examine and adjust priorities and value systems, to construct a healthy living environment in which true fulfillment can occur. Not surprisingly, those individuals who are able recognize and take advantage of this opportunity are the most likely to thrive following the dissolution of a marriage; and are the “best” clients to work with from a practitioner’s point of view.  &n …

Read About the Rights of Unmarried Fathers

If you are an unmarried father, or would like to know more about their rights, check out our Fathers Rights page: http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/rights-of-unmarried-fathers

Stephen Vertucci with The Harris Law Firm Volunteers for Kids in Fort Collins

This past week, Stephen Vertucci, Partner with The Harris Law Firm in Fort Collins, volunteered with the Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary Club to raise funds for “Eat a Peach for a Third Grader” program.   This program sells western slope grown peaches to support the purchase of hard cover, full color, dictionaries for every third grade student in the Poudre Valley school district.  This program has become a Poudre Valley School District tradition and something each third grader looks forward to each year!   For more information about how you can purchase a ca …

A New Book by Actor, Alec Baldwin: "A Promise to Ourselves"

Alec Baldwin’s new book, “A Promise to Ourselves,” is about divorce, fatherhood, and parental alienation.  The attorneys at The Harris Law Firm will be attending a presentation by Mr. Baldwin as a kickoff to the Colorado Family Law Institute at the Marriott City Center Hotel in Denver. The event will include dinner and a conversation about the family law system with Alec Baldwin.

Helping Your Kids Cope with Divorce

Talk to your children about how they are feeling during this difficult time. Divorce can leave deep emotional scars on children, and communicating with them about what is going on is imperative to their healing process. Be there for them when they need you, and discuss how this transition is going to evolve over time. But most importantly, let your behavior set an example for your kids, create structure in their lives, and let them know that you are there for them.

Life After Divorce

Grieving is imperative, but at some point you will have to realize that life goes on. When you are going through the natural grieving process, keep in mind  that you can and will have a happy, productive and meaningful life after your marriage. Don't get mired in regret, but learn from your mistakes and go on.

Free Questions About Divorce Seminar!

Come to our free "QUESTIONS ABOUT DIVORCE" seminar on Thursday, August 18th from 12 to 1 pm. Located at: The Harris Law Firm 1125 17th Street - Suite 1820 Denver, CO 80202   Please RSVP- Space is limited! 303 299 9484

Helping children cope with divorce: Listen and reassure

Helping children cope with divorce: Listen and reassure Support your children by helping them to express their emotions, and commit to listening to their feelings without becoming defensive. Your  job is to reassure them and address their fears and clear up misunderstandings. Show them your unconditional love. The bottom line: kids need to know that your divorce is not their fault.

2011 Divorce Statistics:

There are over 2 million marriages annually in the US: close to 50% of them end in divorce. Second marriages don’t fare much better with over 60% ending in divorce. Third marriages; 73% end up divorcing. Following a divorce; a women’s standard of living and that of the children’s drop by an average of 27% according to the National Marriage Project at Rutgers University. New studies are showing that children do suffer much more trauma than originally thought after a divorce. Massachusetts appears to have one of the lowest divorce rates in the nat …

Doing What it Takes to Save Your Marriage

For a list of therapists and marriage counselors in your area, please access a list of qualified professionals from the Resources Section of our website. You will never regret exhausting every avenue in an effort to save your marriage.

Allocation of Parental Rights for Lesbian Couples

Every family law practitioner has a war story or two concerning parenting actions between unmarried parties. For many lawyers, custody battles between unmarried parties can be considerably more contentious than the typical custody battles found in dissolution of marriage matters. There are several theories for why APR disputes seem to surpass dissolution disputes in length, cost, and emotional damage. However, whether or not the reason has to do with a dynamic unique to unmarried partners: children which may not have been “planned” or parties who never intended to be tied together …

The Intricacies Of Relocation Cases; A Win Or Lose Situation

  The Intricacies Of Relocation Cases; A Win Or Lose Situation   When parents originally file a Dissolution of Marriage, Allocation of Parental Responsibility, or Paternity action they each have the choice to live or move to a location of their choosing. The Court must accept the choice of their location, and allocate the parenting time and decision making in the children’s best interests pursuant to C.R.S. §14-10-124, taking into consideration the parents’ geographical locations. Spahmer v. Gulette, 113 P.3d 158 (Colo. 2005).   However, when a p …

Will the New Child and Family Investigation Guidelines Hinder the Process?

  When Colorado’s Supreme Court amended the Child and Family Investigation (CFI) guidelines earlier this year, the court drastically limited the amount that could be charged for the CFI investigation and the ensuing report, among other significant amendments. While no one doubts that the drafters' intentions were valid, those conducting the investigations have concerns that they will not be able to devote the time necessary to evaluate serious issues. Cutting costs will mean reducing the amount of hours that can be dedicated to the case, and a less than thorough investigation ultim …

Garage Sale Litigation

  In the July 2011 DMagazine there was an article entitled, "Highland Park's Finest Garage Sale". The article reads, "Our next door neighbor recently held a garage sale. At the edge of the driveway, she'd placed a cushion-less leather couch. "Where are the cushions?" I asked when I walked over. The answer came not from the owner herself but from a second neighbor after an awkward silence, "Her ex-husband took them.", the second neighbor whispered. The owner moved behind a ladder, which wasn't for sale. "So what's a buyer supposed to do?" I a …

Senate to Hold Initial Hearing on Equal Rights for Same Sex Couples

The federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is the agency that currently denies federal recognition and benefits to same-sex married couples. The Obama Administration says that it will support legislation to repeal DOMA and replace it with the Respect for Marriage Act, which would overturn DOMA. The bill, introduced by California Senator Dianne Feinstein, would uphold the principle that the US government should allow gay and lesbian couples the same rights and legal protections as straight couples. The Senate is scheduled to hold an initial hearing today on the Respect fo …

What is the best parenting plan?

Prospective clients on the verge of divorce often ask, "What is the best parenting plan for our children? Some therapists say that depending on the age of the kids, equal time in parenting is not always the best solution. Younger children, infants and toddlers, often need more consistency in their lives, and being shuffled between two homes can be problematic for them. Studies indicate that when the children are about 3 years old, they become more able to balance being in two homes without showing signs of stress. Counselors also say that it isnt the am …

Will Colorado Revise Maintenance Guidelines?

BOSTON (AP) - Legislation to revise Massachusetts spousal support guidelines was unanimously approved on July 20th by the state's House of Representatives. The new bill would establish guidelines for spousal support payments including placing limitations on the duration of the payments, and terminating the possibility of the "lifetime" maintenance awards. According to Rep. John Fernandes, a Milford Democrat and the House chairman of the Alimony Reform Task Force, "The legislation establishes a …

Re-Read Your Divorce Decree

In the first few months following the dissolution of your marriage,  review the terms of your divorce to ensure that you do not have any upcoming deadlines, and make sure that your former spouse is upholding his or her legal obligations defined by the divorce decree. There are often deadlines associated with the closing of joint accounts, the refinancing of a home, and the resolution of other financial issues. Be aware of the dates that you are required to complete certain obligations. If you are required to transfer titles, property, …

Breaking up is hard to do....but it may also be impossible.

As almost 8,000 of couples in the GLBT community plan their upcoming weddings in the State of New York, many other couples are in a quandary regarding their right to divorce. Since the federal government, and most states in US, does not recognize gay marriage as a legal entity, many GLBT couples are left without a method of terminating their marriages. For example, an out-of-state couple who travels to New York to marry, or a couple who lives in-state and then moves to California cannot divorce in Massachusetts becaus …

Child Support Enforcement

Child support is generally paid via: 1. Payments made directly by the payor to the recipient 2. Payments via an income assignment from the payor's place of employment to the recipient 3. Payments from the payor to the Family Support Registry for the benefit of the recipient   Colorado has various methods that a family law attorney can pursue regarding the collection of back child support: 1. Issuing an income assignment 2. Filing a verified entry of support judgment and affidavit of arrears. When judgem …

A "Must Read" New Book for Single Parents!

This New Book by Bill McLeod is a "Must Read" for Newly Divorced and Single Parents Everywhere!  Kicking Butt as a Single Parent by Bill McLeod has 99 tips that every single parent must have! Go to Amazon.com to order now!

Appearing in Court Via Skype

Yesterday, Margaret Walker, a Senior Attorney with The Harris Law Firm had a permanent orders hearing in Judge Stern's courtroom in Denver.  Her client was out of state and appeared via Skype. His appearance was arranged so that his image and voice were projected on an IPad, and he could be seen and heard by the judge and by the other party. A Verison Wireless Card and Ms. Walker's computer were used to access Ms. Walker's office files.  The "connection" was very clear and her client could …

Parenting Time Via Skype

Online Parenting Time: Divorced parents are often separated from their children by great distances. Skype or other online internet communication technology, such as Skype or Google Talk, can make it easier for parents and children to stay connected. Even babies and small children who can’t talk on the telephone satisfactorily, are often able to relate to a person they see on the television or computer screen. Experts say that parenting can be accomplished even from long distances if the parent is patient and willing to work at the child’s level. If a chil …

2 Types of Grandparents Rights in the State of Colorado

There are two types of cases involving grandparent’s rights:   1. In order to file for grandparent’s visitation, there needs must be an existing Court action open, or the grandparent’s child (the child’s parent) needs to be deceased.   2. In order to file for the allocation of parental responsibilities, the child must have been in the grandparent’s physical custody for at least 6 months.?   * Another option for grandparents entails filing for guardianship, which would require that the grandparent petition the court.   Generally, speak …

When Can a Child Decide on Parenting Time?

In the State?of Colorado, there is no statute that references a specific age at which a child can determine the parent with whom they wish to live. A parent?can file a motion with the Court requesting a modification to the parenting agreement, in which case the child’s wishes can be considered by the Court, but?there is no guarantee the Judge will rule in favor of the child’s request. To what extent the Court takes the child's wishes into consideration completely depends on the child' maturity, the reasonableness of the request, and to what extent the Court perceives the child's …

The Common-Law Check List

Common Law Checklist:     Joint tax returns     Beneficiary on insurance     Joint accounts or jointly held property     Socially represented themselves as married     Those who will testify that they believed the couple was married     The wearing of wedding bands     Woman’s adoption of the man’s surname     Indication of marital status on employment applications   &nb …

The Ground Rules for Saving Your Marriage

Establish some ground rules for making negotiations positive and safe: a) Strive to be kind and upbeat throughout your discussion, b) Safety is a priority during your meetings--be kind and avoid anger at all times, c) if you are unable to reach an understanding, agree to reconvene later.   Identify the issue from the perspective of both parties. Seek to understand your spouse's position, and state it clearly to your partner, before you agree on a solution to your problem.   Consider all possible solution …

Kids: It's Not Your Fault!

Children often feel that they are responsible for their parents divorce because they remember the times they argued with their parents, or got in trouble. Help your children let go of this misconception by talking to them and addressing the following points: Explain to your children why you and their other parent decided to obtain a divorce. This can be a sensitive subject, and you will have to careful about the details, but letting the kids know the real reasons for your decision can help them to understand that your divorce was not their fault.& …

A "Must Read" New Book for Single Parents!

A "Must Read" New Book for Single Parents!  Kicking Butt as a Single Parent by Bill McLeod has 99 tips that every single parent must have!  Go to Amazon.com to order now!

To Marry or Not to Marry?

More than 2 million couples in the US will marry in 2011, but recent U.S. Census Bureau stats show that fewer than half of the households in the United States are currently comprised of married couples. In the past decade, the number of unmarried couples increased 25 percent as more people chose to live together rather than be married. A Pew Research Center study in 2010 showed that an increasing number of Americans now believe that marriage is obsolete. Apparently many people think that with half of all marriages ending in divorce, the institution has b …

Women: Healing From Divorce in a Healthy Manner

Yes, divorce is hard and the entire process can be emotionally devastating, but be careful how you deal with your pain. Women going through a divorce often result to external means by shopping, having plastic surgery, or trying to create a new relationship before they have had time to heal. Shopping: For many women, shopping is a common method of  dealing with the emotional void. You are sad and you feel empty, so you go out and buy something new. Instead of purchasing something, deal with your pain in a more proactive manner. Go talk to someone about how you fee …

McCourt's Divorce Leads the LA Dodgers to File for Bankruptcy in Delaware

LOS ANGELES (AP) - The Los Angeles Dodgers filed for bankruptcy protection in a Delaware court Monday, blaming the refusal of Major League Baseball to approve a multibillion-dollar TV deal that owner Frank McCourt was counting on to keep the troubled team afloat. The Chapter 11 financing permits the Dodgers to use $150 million for daily operations and buys time for the team to seek a media deal, the team said in a news release. The statement read that the day to day operations of the team would not be effected. Bankruptcy protection will provide the Dodgers with a process to address its immed …

New York Approves Legislation to Allow Gay Couples to Marry

As New York's gay couples celebrate their right to marry, and they can also take comfort in the fact that, if their marital bliss is temporary, they also have the right to file for divorce. New York State senators voted 33-29 on June 24th  to approve legislation that gave gay couples the right to marry. New York is the sixth and most populous U.S. state to allow same-sex marriage. With the right to marry, and formal laws in place,  same-sex couples also obtained the right to divorce, and the domestic relations law …

The Harris Law Firm Accepts "Above and Beyond" Award for Pro Bono Work

The Harris Law Firm has received the “Above & Beyond” Award from Arnold & Porter and The Colorado Lawyers Committee for their service in the Legal Night program.   Legal Night is a program offering free legal advice to the low income communities in North and West Denver.  There was a reception and awards presentation on Wednesday night, June 23rd, from 5-7pm at the downtown law firm of Arnold & Porter.

Can I Obtain a "Quickie Divorce"?

Yes, you can obtain a "quickie divorce" in the Dominican Republic, but it may  or may not be valid in your State. Some States in the US will not recognize Dissolution of Marriage decrees from the DR, so to save time and money, consider using a lawyer or mediator and filing for divorce in the US.  If you two can come to an agreement regarding the division of assets and parenting time, have an attorney draw up the necessary documents and file the paperwork for you. If you cannot agree, then utilize the services of a trained mediator, who will create a Memorandu …

The Under-Employed Parent and the Calculation of Child Support

Both parents are responsible for supporting their child. If one parent is accused of being under-employed, the court could say that they might be able to earn more, but that they are not shirking  their responsibility and the court may rule not to impute income to them.If you have similar situation and are considering going to court, it would be wise to have a lawyer review your situation and give you perspective. It is also a good idea to check out the actual difference in the child support to see whether the issue is worth arguing  - go to www.court …

Join The Harris Law Firm at Pride Fest Colorado!

The 2011 Pride Fest Colorado will celebrate diversity this weekend, June 18 and 19 at Civic Center Park in downtown Denver. Come to booth #L - 8 and talk with attorney Ryann Peyton about GLBT family law matters and sign up for our free seminar on July 13th at The Harris Law Firm. The seminar will be held at the firm: 1125 17th St, Ste 1820, Denver, CO 80202. To RSVP for the Free Seminar, call us at 303 299 9484

Can Your Marriage be Saved After an Affair?

While it is entirely possible to have a relationship thrive after an instance of marital infidelity, it is not easy. If you are trying to save your marriage after you have had an affair, you have to prioritize your relationship and make your spouse your first priority.  Your spouse needs to know that you are sorry, remorseful, and you want your marriage to work. You must begin this process by being responsible and compassionate to your betrayed partner. Be empathic and work to understand the hurt they have suffered. Healing your relationsh …

Rebuilding Divorce Recovery Seminar

Overcome the emotions of divorce Learn what went wrong Start designing your new future   Rebuilding Divorce Recovery Seminars   Cost:  $394.00.  Payment plans available. Format:  10 weeks, 3 hours per night.    Call about upcoming seminars!   For more information call Jeannine:  303-499-1987 

Are You Getting Enough Sex?

A recent survey reports that as many as 20 million married Americans aren't getting enough sex from their spouse on a regular basis. According to the poll, many married people are dissatisfied with the lack of lovemaking and want to have sex more often. Almost 61 percent of married men with ages ranging from 45 to 55 say that having a good sex life is a critical part of a healthy relationship, and 47 percent of married women  in the same age group agreed. According to Denise A. Donnelly, an associate professor of sociology at Ge …

The Tax Consequences of Divorce

The Equitable Division of Assets Colorado is an equitable distribution state where you and your spouse must divide your assets according to "whatever is fair" according to the family courts. Equitable division of assets is often a 50/50 split, but you and your soon to be former spouse can also agree out of court and decide how to split assets. The court will generally go along with the proposed agreement if it is fair.  The Federal Tax-Free Transfer Rule Usually Applies According to IRS Code Section 1041, you can divide most asset …

If you want to save your marriage...

If you are seeking to save your marriage, put the fun back in it, and go out on a date together! Dating is important for couples with young children because they need some "just us" time, and important for couples without kids because they often spend too much time working. Therapist Elisabeth Joy LaMotte says: However, the longer I work as a couples therapist, the more convinced I become that the place where many good marriages can start to deteriorate is rooted in a couples' joint failure to recognize the importance of making time to date. I practically beg the married coup …

Having Coffee with Your Kids New Step-Mom

The first meeting between the divorced mom and and the new stepmom is going be awkward, but plan a meeting anyway. Call her, and set up a 30 minute meeting to have coffee and talk about the kids. Your ex-husband's new wife is going to have an influence on your children, so getting off to a healthy an positive start with her is important not just to your peace of mind, but also for your children. A one on one meeting between the two of you will humanize your relationship and can help to create a foundation for working to …

Divorce Affects Children's Social Skills and Academic Progress

Young children whose parents have divorced not only struggle with anxiety and depression that affects their social skills for at least two years after the divorce but they also have difficulty with math skills.  YAHOO = window.YAHOO || {}; YAHOO.Media = YAHOO.Media || {}; YAHOO.Media.SocialButtons = YAHOO.Media.SocialButtons || {}; (function(){ var o_facebook_iframe_url="http://l.yimg.com/b/social_buttons/facebook-share-iframe.php?u={url}&t={title}"; YAHOO.Media.SocialButtons.conf = { tracking: { _S: 97631923, …

Schwarzenegger-Shriver to Divide $500 Million

Like his soon-to-be ex-wife Maria Shriver, Arnold Schwarzenegger has hired a celebrity divorce attorney. Attorney Robert Kaufman will represent the former governor in his divorce from his estranged wife.  Kaufman, who has also represented Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon and Jessica Simpson in their dissolutions, is known for keeping his celebrity clients business off the newstands. Apparently Kaufman has already spoken with Shriver’s attorney Laura Wasser about how to proceed with the divorce negotiations. Wasser has also represented …

HFL Partner Stephen Vertucci Raises Funds for Needy Families

Over the Memorial Day Weekend, Stephen Vertucci of The Harris Law Firm volunteered with the Rotary Breakfast Club of Fort Collins to solicit donations of baby food and diapers from customers outside various Fort Collins grocery stores.  The results were fantastic!  Over 1,100 pounds of food and supplies were raised in 6 hours!  Throughout the weekend, over 5,000 pounds were raised!  These donations are given to the Larimer County Food Bank who provide assistance to the most vulnerable families.  These donations make up 80% of the food and diapers the Larimer County Foo …

Hollywood Couples Question the Institution of Marriage

Penelope Cruz and hubby Javier Bardem--whom she married in July 2010--welcomed their first child in January 2011. Nevertheless, she told Britain's Psychologies magazine in July 2009 that she was doubtful about the necessity of marriage. "I don't know if I believe in marriage," she said. "I believe in family, love and children."    Though Marisa Tomei told USA Today that she's "been lucky in love" with boyfriend Logan Marshall-Green, she isn't in a hurry to tie the knot anytime soon. "I'm not that big a fan of marriage as an institution and I don't …

Colorado Family Law and Complex Family Issues

In 2006, the U.S. Census Bureau defined family as "two or more people who are related by blood, marriage, or adoption who are residing in the same house together." Only five years later, in 2011, what we now define as "family" still includes the "traditional" family of a husband, wife and 2.5 kids, but also includes same sex couples, single parents, and married and unmarried couples. Families now include international adoptions, foster children, and step children from both parents. Blended families have become a social norm because people …

Should I Introduce My Child to the Person I am Dating?

You don't tell your child everything about your life, and you don't need to introduce them to everyone you know. If you have dated a person for several weeks following your divorce, you do not have to keep your dates a secret, but delay introducing this person to your children until you have created some history together. You don't have to wait forever, but wait until the relationship has reached a level of stability. When you two are serious about creating a future together, that is the time to introduce the children. Kids often form attachments quickly, and when a person …

US Divorce Rate Declines, But the 7-Year Itch Continues

After decades of increases, U.S. divorces are leveling off with couples now slightly more likely to reach their 10-year wedding anniversary. But the "seven-year itch" among couples persists, with nearly one out of two first marriages estimated to end in divorce. Roughly 75% of those who have married since 1990 reported they reached their 10-year anniversary. That's up about three percentage points for both men and women who married a decade earlier in the 1980s, when divorce rates in the U.S. had peaked, according to Census figures released Wednesday. The Census report partly attri …

Hiring the Experts for Your Pending Divorce

The attorneys at The Harris Law Firm say that you should consider working with other divorce experts to make certain that your assets and mental health are protected during the divorce process. Let us help you build your team!   A forensic accountant:  If you are concerned about hidden income/assets/liabilities and/or the possible dissipation of marital assets (vacations taken by your husband with his girlfriend and gifts he might have bought her)?  A forensic accountant helps explore these concerns and may also be very useful when one or both spouses own a b …

Colorado divorce rate plummets during recession

The divorce rate in Colorado has dropped to 4.2 percent per 1,000 people, a rate hit only once — in 2003 — in the past 21 years. In 2007, the year the recession began, the rate was 4.4 percent, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. The latest data available are from 2009. Those familiar with divorce, from lawyers to investment advisers to marital therapists, say the drop is mostly because of economic issues: People can't afford to maintain two households or pay an attorney. Often, the house is worth less than when it was bought, so there is no equity for eith …

Understanding Your Spouse's Communication Style

Communication means really trying to understand what it is your spouse is trying to tell you.  For example, when men stop talking, it often means that they have said what they have to say, but a woman's silence usually means that she is very upset.  A happy and healthy relationship will require an understanding of these differences.  If your man is silent don’t be offended, he isn’t ignoring you and guys, if your lady is silent, you’d better figure out what you’ve done to upset her.

U.S. Census Report Shows Divorce Rates Declining

Recent findings by the U.S. Census Bureau indicate divorce rates for most age groups have been decreasing since 1996 by an average of about 5 percentage points. The reasons include: Couples are waiting longer to get married One third of men and women ages 25 to 29 have never married. Census statistics show: In 1996, 19% of 25- to 29-year-old women who had been married were divorced, but only 14% were in 2009 -- a decease of about 30%. For 30- to 34-year-old women, there was a smaller decrease of about 20%. The rate of divorce among older …

Maria Shriver Hires Divorce Lawyer: Will She Terminate Her Marriage?

Former California First-Lady Maria Shriver has hired Laura Wasser, Esq. a  prominent Los Angeles domestic relations attorney. It has been reported that Shriver hired Wasser prior to the breaking news that her husband, Arnold Schwartzenegger, had fathered a child with a member of their household staff. Whether Ms. Shriver intends to file for a legal separation or the dissolution of marriage is still not clear, but the Kennedy women have a long history of putting up with their husbands' extra marital affairs. However, Maria is from a different generation and may not be a …

Bill would ban parents from having sex at home while getting divorce

Updated: Wednesday, 18 May 2011, 8:47 AM EDT Published : Monday, 16 May 2011, 6:16 AM EDT BOSTON (FOX 25 / MyFoxBoston.com) - A new bill in Massachusettes would ban parents from engaging in sexual relationships within the home until their divorces are final. The bill is meant to prevent domestic violence and shield children while the divorce is underway. The bill would prevent divorcing parents from conducting a dating or sexual relationship within the home until the divorce is final. Attorneys at The Harris Law Firm said that the passing of such a bill in the State of Colorado would be u …

Living Together After the Divorce is Final

Before filing for divorce, spouses should consider the costs of separation. Begin by creating a balance sheet showing your monthly household income verses expenses. The next step is to divide both incomes in half, double the amount of the household expenses, and subtract total expenses from the net income. This is the amount of extra income that will be available to you after you have paid your post-divorce monthly expenses. When creating a new budget, many couples find that there will be little, if any, excess income available to them once they have paid their monthly bills. It …

Dont Ask Your Child to be the "Go Between" in Your Divorce

Triangulation sometimes occurs during the divorce process when a third party is drawn into the demise of a couple's relationship. At best, the Go-between” can act as a mediator, but at worst can help to create a communication breakdown between the divorcing parties . Unfortunately , children sometimes try to act as the “Go-Between” for their divorcing or divorced parents, trying to bridge the gap between them. Parents can also put  their children in the middle by asking them for information about the other spou …

Sir Paul McCartney to Marry Wife #3!

Sir Paul McCartney, 68, and his girlfriend of four years, New York businesswoman Nancy Shevell, 51,are engaged to be married. The rock and roll legend started dating Shevell in the Hamptons during the summer of 2007. This will be McCartney's third marriage. He married Linda McCartney in 1969 and  Heather Mills in 2002. Shevell is divorced, has one son, and is vice president of her family's business, New England Motor Freight, Inc., and the Shevell Group of Companies. She is also a member of New York City's Metropolitan Transportation Authority …

Arnold and Maria Schwartzenegger: Will the Power Couple Divorce?

  In  a joint announcement, former California Governor Arnold Schwartzenegger and his wife, former newswoman, Maria Shriver announced that they are now living apart. Ms. Shriver has recently left the couple's home in the posh Brentwood neighborhood of West Los Angeles.  It has been reported that Mr. Schwarzenegger's infidelties have played a role in their decision to live separately, but they announced that they will continue to co-parent and to work on the future of their relationship together. From the beginning, their …

Working on Your Marriage

The ups and downs associated with marriage are to be expected, but when tensiona are running high, consider talking with a licensed marriage counselor to help you through difficult times. Go to the "Saving Your Marriage" section of our website to access of list of therapists in your area: www.harrisfamilylaw.com

How long does it take to recover from divorce?

Divorce recovery is a highly personal process, and it depends on many factors. These include the length of the marriage, your age,  the age of your children, your financial status, and how prepared you were for the demise of your marriage. Grieving the loss of your relationship is as inevitable as it is normal, but part of the process is to accept your grief. Begin by asking for the help and support you need from your family and friends, and obtain the assistance of a counselor if possible. As difficult as it is when your marriage com …

Living Unhappily Together is More Tragic than Divorce

  A successful marriage is a supportive partnership, but sometimes our unions are simply not destined to last forever.  What if the two of you stop growing together and begin to grow apart? What if you spend all of your time together in a state of disagreement? Forever is a long time and if you have exhausted all other reasonable options in an effort to save your marriage,  it is important to be able to talk to your spouse about a civil conclusion to your marriage when you know it has ended. Staying in a relationship that is no longer work …

Obtaining Affordable Health Care After Your Divorce

Another important point to consider prior to filing for divorce is obtaining affordable health care. Prior to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) that was signed into law March of 2010; many spouses depended on their partner for healthcare coverage. While COBRA (Consolidate Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) has long been an available option, it is usually expensive and is only available for 3 years after the date of the final decree. Spouses with pre-existing conditions often had difficulty locating a plan to insure them, but the new health care bill has provided acces …

Could the Rising Divorce Rate in 2011 Signal an Economic Recovery for the U.S.?

The Harris Law Firm, the largest family law firm in the State of Colorado, has seen an increase in business in the first 4 months of 2011. Are the rising number of divorce cases a leading indicator meaning that our faltering economy is on the mend? Read more:   by Virginie Montet Virginie Montet – Thu Apr 28, 4:29 pm ET WASHINGTON (AFP) – A telltale sign of US economic recovery: the divorce rate is on the rise, after falling sharply in 2008 and 2009. "People were afraid they were going to lose their jobs so they were very cautious about ge …

Attorney Stephen Vertucci Talks to High School Students About Career in Law

Attorney Stephen Vertucci volunteered at the Rocky Mountain High School Career Expo this week to answer questions from graduating high school students who have an interest in becoming an attorney.   Discussions ranged from describing “a day in the life” of an attorney, what it is like to take a bar exam to describing what your first year of law school will be like.  This program was coordinated through the Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary Club Vocational Services Committee, of which Mr. Vertucci is a member.

Much Happiness to the Royal Couple, the new Duke and Duchess of Cambridge

The Royal Wedding was a great success, the much anticipated dress was perfect, the weather cooperated, and they even  kissed twice on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to the great joy of the crowd below!  Everyone at The Harris Law Firm wishes the Prince and Princess all the best for a very happy marriage and a successful partnership, and hopes that this is indeed true love and no one in the Windsor family will ever regret the fact that newlyweds did not sign a prenuptial agreement!

US Divorce Rate Declines, But the 7-Year Itch Continues

After decades of increases, U.S. divorces are leveling off with couples now slightly more likely to reach their 10-year wedding anniversary. But the "seven-year itch" among couples persists, with nearly one out of two first marriages estimated to end in divorce. Roughly 75% of those who have married since 1990 reported they reached their 10-year anniversary. That's up about three percentage points for both men and women who married a decade earlier in the 1980s, when divorce rates in the U.S. had peaked, according to Census figures released Wednesday. The Census report partly attri …

US Divorce Rates Have Dipped During the Recessession

Per The Financial Times: US Divorce rates have dipped during the recessession as unemployment surged and the housing market collapsed. The rate decreased in 2009 to 9.7 from 9.9 in 2006. It makes sense since it is more difficult to split up amid high unemployment and a plunge in housing prices.  One divorce lawyer told the newspaper that one of her clients wanted to split with his wife in 2008, but had to stay married because the bank wouldn't lend him the money to buy her portion of their property. "People no longer argue about who's keeping the house, but about who's stu …

Free "Questions About Divorce?" Seminar

Join Senior Associate Margaret Walker on April 28th from 12 to 1 pm for a Free Seminar at The Harris Law Firm 1125 17th Street Suite 1820 Denver CO 80202 To RSVP, call 303 299 9484

Stephen Vertucci Supports Rotary Read

  Attorney Stephen Vertucci, managing partner of The Harris Law Firm in Fort Collins, is a member of Rotary Read, a committee focused on promoting literacy in Fort Collins elementary students.  Each year, the committee raises funds to sponsor a well known children’s author to visit students to discuss their writing process, the joy of reading and what inspired them to be a writer.    This year, Rotary Read presented noted author Natasha Wing.  Ms. Wing, the author of “The Night Before Kindergarten” and its subsequent series of children’s …

Charlie Sheen Should Have Supervised Parenting Time

It was no surprise to anyone that actor Charlie Sheen was unsuccessful in his attempt to obtain full custody of his twin boys, Bob and Max. In the Los Angeles courtroom this week, the judge was unimpressed when Sheen had bragged about the magnitude of his former drug use. Sheen's ex-wife Brooke Mueller, who like Charlie has her own share of drug problems, recently checked into a rehabilitation center after refusing to submit to a court ordered random drug test. Despite their problems, Judge Hank Goldberg ruled to keep Charlie and Brooke's court ordered …

New Rules Will Guide Child Family Investigators

Please note the following changes that have been made to CJD 04-08 and JDF 1318.   CJD 04-08 Amended April 14, 2011 – Appointments of Child and Family Investigators Pursuant to C.R.S. 14-10-116.5 and revised JDF 1318 Order Appointing Child and Family Investigator   * The CJD and JDF 1318 Order of Appointment were changed to:   1. Establish a cap of $2,000.00 for the investigation and report; 2. Require further order of the court and specific findings of extraordinary circumstances to justify fees and costs that exceed the cap; 3. Eliminate the CFIs authority t …

Rich Harris Comments on Parenting Time and the Best Interests of Children

The State of Alabama is currently weighing proposed changes to their child custody laws aimed at uniting broken families. Rich Harris, President and Managing Partner of The Harris Law Firm, Colorado's largest family law firm, commented on this on Monday, "Legislation like this, while perhaps well-intentioned, is harmful to kids. There should not be any presumption, other than kids deserve the best, healthiest home environment. Sometimes that is with dad, but sometimes that is with mom. Mandating forced equal parenting, when one parent is uninvolved or whose work schedule prevents it, simp …

If You Pay Child Support, Get Copies of the Paperwork from Family Support Registry

James Powell of El Paso County in Colorado Springs, Colorado has been paying child support for years, but for the benefit of someone else's children, not his own children! Powell stated: "The money that has been taken out of my paycheck every month has gone into someone else's account," Powell recently discovered the problem when he got someone else's child support paperwork in the mail. Powell said that he and that man have the same name and their ex-wives' names are similar. Powell believes that thousands of dollars have&nbs …

The Harris Law Firm Supports the Fort Collins Running Club

Family Law Attorney Elizabeth Howard and Allie Shearer of The Harris Law Firm, (Located in Denver and Fort Collins), supported the Fort Collins Running Club on Sunday by competing in the annual Horse Tooth Half Marathon! The Horsetooth Half Marathon was voted Colorado's #1 Half Marathon in 2006 and the Best After Race Party in 2007 by readers of Colorado Runner Magazine. The Horsetooth Half Marathon, owned by the  Fort Collins Running Club was established in 1973, and is one of the most popular, oldest, and continually run races in Colorado.

Using a QDRO to Divide a Qualified Plan During Divorce Proceedings

In general, ERISA rules do not permit a participant in a qualified plan to assign the participant's interest in the retirement account to another individual. These rules are intended to ensure that a participant's retirement benefits are available to provide financial support for the participant's retirement years. A limited exception to this rule is provided for assignments of retirement benefits through qualified domestic relations orders (QDROs). Under the QDRO exception, a domestic relations order may assign some or all of a participant's retirement …

Divorce is Difficult for Kids Too!

Help your kids get through this period in a manner that minimizes their stress: Do not argue in front of your children: Whether in person or on the phone, do not have heated conversations with the other parent when your children can hear what you are saying. Keep the details of your divorce private: The details of your divorce should remain between you and former spouse. Do not involve your children in matters that should remain private. Be Civil .  Keep your interactions with your ex spouse civil and professional. Set a good example for your kids and …

Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglas Continue to Support Each Other

Award winning actress Catherine Zeta-Jones, wife of Michael Douglas, is currently being treated for a bi-polar disorder at Silver Hill, a treatment center located in posh New Canaan, Connecticut. Treatment for bi-polar disorder is usually entails a combination of medication and cognitive behavior therapy designed to manage the highs and lows of manic depression. Her  courageous decision to report news of her treatment may inspire others who suspect that they are also in need of care. Attorneys at The Harris Law Firm say that this unfortunate disorder is often the …

Free Questions About Divorce Seminar

Free Questions About Divorce Seminar hosted by Margaret Walker, Esq., a senior family law attorney with The Harris Law Firm Topics covered will include Colorado divorce and the allocation of parental rights (custody, parenting time, visitation, and child support) Please RSVP for this FREE DIVORCE SEMINAR at The Harris Law FIrm by calling 303 299 9484 Space is limited

Pick Up a Copy of the May Issue of HERLIFE Magazine

Pick up a copy of the May issue of Her Life Magazine! Kathy Sabine, the Weather-Woman from 9 News will be on the cover, and Rich Harris, President and Managing Partner of The Harris Law Firm will be featured in the same issue!

Fort Collins Divorce and Child Custody

If you have a family law matter in Weld or Larimer Counties, The Harris Law Firm is here to help.  Stephen Vertucci, a partner with the firm, and associate attorney Jonathan White, work together as a team to handle issues that include divorce, child custody, modifications, and post decree matters. To schedule a consultation at our Fort Collins office, please call the main number at 303-299-9484.

Save Your Marriage: Go to the "Ask a Therapist" Form on Our Homepage

Having trouble in your marriage? Go to our homepage and you can ask a marriage counselor a question online. You will receive an answer to your question within 48 hours!

Is Divorce Different When There are $Millions to Divide?

Is Divorce Different When There are $Millions to Divide? The family law attorneys at The Harris Law Firm deal with high asset and high profile family law cases on a daily basis. They say that it is not unusal for the parties involved in these cases to have a variety of asset classes, and thus their income and/or net worth may not be readily transparent. The attorneys said that the use of forensic accounting is more common in cases where the division of assets entails many millions of dollars. Forensic accountants are often called upon to utilize their in-depth …

Parents of Twins More Likely to Get Divorced

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) – Parents of twins may be slightly more likely to get divorced than parents without twins, according to a new study. The findings "are not surprising, given the stresses that caring for (twins) brings," Dr. John Moore, a pediatrician at Virginia Tech-Carilion School of Medicine in Roanoke who was not involved in the study, told Reuters Health. The difference in divorce rates was small - only 1 percent - and the authors say they can't be sure what would account for the added risk. It's possible, they note, that either the emotional or financial stre …

No Fault Divorce Means Keeping "Dirty Laundry" out of the Courtroom

The "No-Fault" Divorce Law is now applicable in all 50 states. This means that either spouse, with or without the consent of the other,  can file for and obtain a dissolution of marriage for any reason. The fact that your spouse may have had countless affairs throughout your marriage will have no bearing on your divorce case. The courts will not award the injured spouse more assets or more parenting time based on infidelity alone. In fact, clients must be careful about airing "dirty laundry" in a court of law because they risk alienat …

Hiring a Family Law Attorney vs. Representing Yourself in a Court of Law

For a variety of reasons, many people choose to represent themselves when dealing with divorce, custody, child support or other family law matters. Making the decision to choose an attorney to represent you,  verses representing yourself,  may be one of the most important decisions you will ever make regarding your children's future and your financial security. We often meet clients who have attempted to represent themselves, but found they became overwhelmed and/or made significant errors, and are now trying to "undo" what happened in the …

The Harris Law Firm Seeing More Divorces in Rural Areas

By SABRINA TAVERNISE and ROBERT GEBELOFF So it is a bitter mark of modernity that even in rural America, divorce is up nearly sevenfold since 1970, giving the county the unwelcome distinction of being a standout in this category of census data. Divorce is still less common here than the national average, but its sharp jump illustrates a fundamental change in the patterns of family life. Forty years ago, divorced people were more concentrated in cities and suburbs. But geographic distinctions have all but vanished, and now, for the first time, rural Americans are just as likely to be divorced …

Remember to Address the Issue of Grown Children

Older couples who file for divorce often have children who are no longer minors. But the fact that custody and parenting time issues do not exist, does not mean that the best interests of the children are being addressed.  If you are a parent with adult children, think about creating a financial plan, such as a trust,  that  clearly defines how you will distribute your assets to your children in the event of your passing. Otherwise, it is more likely that your new spouse, and/or his or her heirs, who will become the n …

Factor in Taxes on Retirement Accounts Before Dividing Marital Assets

For couples over 50, retirement assets held in 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and other retirement accounts may represent a significant portion of their net worth. At age 59 1/2,retirement assets can be distributed without penalty, but the distribution is still subject to taxes upon withdrawal. If an individual is subject to a 30% tax bracket , then the net value of the account is really only about 70% of the statement balance.  According to the lawyers at The Harris Law Firm, before marital assets are distributed during a divorce, it …

Social Media Posts are Being Used as Evidence in Divorce Cases

Information posted on Facebook, Twitter, other social media sites, and email records can all be obtained as evidence in Colorado divorce proceedings. So if you are currently involved in a divorce action where there is potential conflict regarding parenting time, child custody, or the division of assets, be aware that damaging information collected from these channels can be used against you. Twenty percent of divorces now involve obtaining information about the opposing party via an online social media site, and an increasing number of Denver divorce attorneys say they are seei …

Relocating Following a Divorce – How This Can Affect Your Kids

If you are considering a long distance move from your former spouse after your divorce is final, you must first consider the effect a move may have on your children.  When the custodial parent moves far away from the other parent, the separation can cause child to suffer from grief and separation anxiety. They have not only lost the daily interaction with their mother and father together as a family, but now the great distance from one parent makes consistent contact even more difficult . Additionally, a long distance move will also deny your& …

Strategize Before You File for Divorce

STRATEGIZE WITH A FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY Before you file for divorce, consider meeting with a Colorado family law attorney to discuss strategy. A domestic relations attorney will help you to understand your options according to Colorado law. Parties to divorce often create agreements that are not in their best interests because they were not fully informed or aware of  their rights. One of our lawyers can help you to strategize by working with you to create budget for your future living expenses,  to divide assets in an equitable manner, and craft a parenting plan that considers the b …

Try a Free Co-Parenting Calendar!

Finally a co-parenting calendar for divorced or separated parents! To obtain a free and easily shared calendar with your co-parent, just call Co-Families at 720 221 7797 or email them at info@cofamilies.com  

TOP TEN LAWYERS OF THE DECADE!

Congratulations to Rich Harris for being selected as one of the finalists for the Top Ten Lawyers of the Decade by Law Week Colorado!

Fort Collins Family Law Cases

For Colorado divorce and child custody issues in Weld, Larimer, Boulder counties and Loveland, call The Harris Law Firm in Fort Collins. Partner Steve Vertucci and Jonathan White can be reached at 970 472 1838. The office is located at 123 North College, in the Executive Suite #200.The Harris Law Firm is Colorado's Family Law Team.

Colorado Civil Unions Bill for Gay Couples

The Judiciary committee of the Colorado Senate approved a bill on Monday that would grant homosexual couples many of the same rights currently reserved for married heterosexual couples. Senate Bill 172, sponsored by Denver Democrat Pat Steadman, would "authorize any 2 unmarried adults, regardless of gender, to enter into a civil union," which would afford them eligibility for public assistance benefits, rights to visit one another in a correctional facility, and the ability to inherit property, among other rights. The bill passed its first legislation hurdle as the Judiciary Commit …

Ask a Marriage Counselor a Question Via Email from the HFL Website!

Ask a marriage counselor a question via our website and receive an answer in 48 hours! Just click on the email form on the upper right hand side of our website!

Women in Military are Twice as Likely to Divorce as Their Male Counterparts

  Recent statistics from the Pentagon indicate that women in the military are twice as likely to divorce as their male counterparts. . In 2010, 7.8 percent of women in the military obtained a divorce, compared with 3 percent of military men. Women in the military also get divorced at higher rates than their peers outside the armed services. Why military women are more burdened by divorce is unclear, but societal pressure is likely a factor. One speculation is that while more traditional men join the military, women who are attracted to military life are less conventional — an …

Will Charlie Sheen Have Unsupervised Parenting Time?

Per the attorneys at The Harris Law Firm, it is very possible that actor Charlie Sheen will have his parenting time modified soon. Sheen and his soon to be ex wife Brooke Mueller have 2 year old twin sons,  Bob and Max, and he also has  2 young daughters, Sam 6, and Lola 5, by former wife Denise Richards. Following his very recent and ongoing public rages, the apparent mental decline of the actor is of the utmost concern to the mothers of his children. Given the public nature of his exploits, alleged drug abuse, and the questionable compan …

The Complexity of Famliy Law Cases for the Non-Traditional Family Continues

Per the lawyers at The Harris Law Firm, Colorado's family law team: Until we have laws that govern same-sex marriage, the family law cases associated with these non-traditional families is going to continue to be highly complex. A recent decision by the Texas Court of Appeals illustrates the complexity of one particularly ugly gay divorce. The partners lived in Houston but they traveled to Canada in 2003 to get married and then they registered as domestic partners in California in 2005. Because of the restrictions on gay partnerships and parentage in Texas, they arranged for a surrogate in C …

Social Media Cited in One of Every Five Divorce Cases

According to a recent survey of divorce lawyers by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, the use of information obtained via Facebook and other forms of social media has been cited in more than 20% of divorce cases. Lawyers report that when one spouse begins to communicate via social media with a love interest from their past, their ongoing communication often leads them to a deeper connection. Typically, people who begin these interactions have no intention of having an affair, but the more they communicate, the more likely it is that they will create a meaningful relationship a …

Mike Cheroutes Jr. Named Rising Star by Super Lawyers 2011!

Congratulations to Mike Cheroutes, a partner at The Harris Law Firm!

The Go To Family Law Firm in Fort Collins

For family law matters in Loveland, or Weld and Larimer counties, The Harris Law Firm also has an office in Fort Collins, Colorado. Located at 123 North College, in Suite 200 of the Executive Center,  you can arrange a consultation with Stephen Vertucci, a partner at the firm, or Jonathan White, an associate, to discuss divorce, legal separation, parenting matters, or post decree issues. Call 970 472 1838 to schedule a meeting today.

One Simple Rule to Keep Your Marriage Strong

If you are married and have kids, you want your marriage to stay strong. Divorce is not only complicated, it is expensive! Keep your marriage in tact by following one simple rule: Spend time together as a couple. Yes it is difficult to find the time to get away, your work life is complicated, family time is important, and getting a babysitter can be challenging, but not spending time together can take a toll on your relationship. Dont put your marriage at risk by focusing all of your time on everything but the two of you. Take a break and go out on a date, and spend some quality …

Survey Shows Society Still Believes in the Nuclear Family

According to a recent report by the Pew Research Center, many respondents indicated that most people agree that kids are better off when being raised by both parents. The survey indicated that 7 out of 10 respondents said that single women raising a child without the benefit of a male partner was a problem because they were concerned that working women abandoned by their husbands cannot devote as much time to the children as the children need. Of the people who participated in the survey, 74 percent of men say that kids are better off when both parents are involved,&n …

"Ask a Marriage Counselor"

The Harris Law Firm is adding a new section to our website! The "Ask a Marriage Counselor" form will allow you to ask a therapist a question about saving your marriage. Just fill out the form and you will receive an answer to your question in 48 hours! This new service will be available soon!

Until Debt Do Us Part

  Morris Armstrong, On Wednesday February 9, 2011, 4:40 pm EST "I am not responsible for paying the mortgage. My ex is, and it states that in the divorce decree." This is a cry that I have heard more times than I care to remember. When people go through a divorce they make the mistake of believing that the separation papers are binding on the rest of the world, and that is far from the truth. Without attempting to be a legal eagle, I think that the best term to describe a divorce decree might be a divorce contract. That term that might make the parties realize that the docume …

Your Kids Need a Relationship with You and Your Ex

When you find yourself struggling with your former spouse regarding parenting issues, remember the following: Your Kids Need a Relationship with Both Parents. Following a Colorado Divorce, it is important to know that your children need to have a good relationship with both parents. Be Flexible and Be Willing to Compromise: Keep your kids best interests in mind, you may be able to avoid disagreements about the daily details of your parenting plan. Take a Deep Breath. Stay calm and think about what is best for your children. Keep their best in …

When Do I Start Dating Again?

Divorce is painful, and some people need more time to recover than others. After obtaining your final divorce decree, allow yourself at least six to twelve months to adjust to the fact that you are single.  Rather than beginning to date right away, use this time to adjust to your newly single status and get together with friends and family, take a class, go on a weekend getaway, get into therapy, and take time to discover the new you. When you grieved the loss of your marriage, and regained your self-confidence, your optimis …

Cutting the cost of divorce

By Kathy M. Kristof Personal Finance - February 6, 2011 It may seem unromantic, but just about the only people who are busier than florists this time of year are divorce attorneys. Whether it's because Valentine's Day forces couples to face romantic disappointments or because many people put off cutting marital ties until after the holidays, February tends to kick off high season for divorce. And nothing could be worse for your finances than a contentious marital split, said Mark Baer, a family law attorney in Pasadena. Baer has compiled data to prove it. Married couples have significantly …

Blue Valentine: Marriage on the Rocks

Go see the Oscar nomtinated film Blue Valentine, a film that centers on a contemporary married couple, and charts the evolution of their relationship over a span of years. The essence of the film is straightforward; don't give up on marriage, but be smart about who you choose. Dont rush into marriage, but take the time to get to know your partner before you tie the knot. Be careful not to create unrealistic expectations about your partner, and most importantly, remember that what you do not like about this person will not necessarily change over time. This emotionally gri …

Is Kelsey Grammer getting remarried before his divorce is final?

Can you get remarried before obtaining your divorce decree? Kelsey Grammer, who is about to marry  his new fiance' on February 25th in the Grand Ballroom of the Plaza Hotel is about to find out! According the lawyers at The Harris Law Firm, a subsequent marriage will be rendered invalid if one of the parties is still legally married. But Grammer, who says that he "will not postpone his happiness" has already sent out invitations to 150 of his closest friends to the upcoming wedding ceremony even though he has not yet obtained a dissoluton of marriage&n …

Will Denise Richards File to Modify Her Parenting Plan with Charlie Sheen?

Per the lawyers at The Harris Law Firm, family law courts hold modifications to court -ordered parenting schedules to a very high standard. Child endangerment is one of the reasons that the courts will consider when a party has filed to modify parenting time. Denise Richards, former wife of actor Charlie Sheen, recently talked to the press following her ex's recent hospitalization. She said that she will not allow her children to be supervised by Charlie's guests when he is overbibing during his parenting time with their two young daughters. If she files …

Eva Longoria and Tony Parker Have Ended their Marriage

Eva Longoria, 35, and Tony Parker, 28, who married in 2007, quietly ended their marriage on Friday in the State of Texas. Longoria originally filed for the dissolution of marriage in California before Parker filed his own petition for divorce in Texas. Filing inTexas became the logical choice, because they had filed their prenuptial agreement in that state. The two have been spotted out together several times since they filed to terminate their union, suggesting that they ended their marriage amicably and on good terms. The couple have no …

Divorce Coaching at No Charge!

Divorcecoaching.com is a new website that offers divorce coaching! The site contains a number of helpful resources to women who are facing the end of their marriages, and also to those who are struggling to rebuild their lives following a divorce. The site was developed by divorce coach Jennifer Horton, and the site includes informative articles on the effects of divorce, an inspirational blog, a teleseminar series and a free ebook titled: The Six Questions that Initiate the Divorce Healing Process. For a limited time, Divorcecoaching.com is now offering a free 60-minute, …

Positive Communication Will Keep Your Marriage Strong

  Positive and ongoing communication will keep your marriage strong and on track 1.) Research indicates that when couples begin to assign blame and make accusations, that positive communication will come to a halt. 2.) When one party becomes critical or contemptuous, this will also act as a barrier to productive communication. 3.) If either party begins to become defensive, and attempts to excuse negative behaviors, this will also curtail any positive interaction. Negative behaviors and the failure to communicate will often create an atmosphere where neither party is able interac …

Lottery Winner May Have to Share Millions of Marital Assets

When 29-year-old single Idaho mom Holly Lahti became the $190 million winner in the $380 Mega Millions lottery, she did not accept her winnings in person. Instead, she simply resigned from her bank teller position, and moved to a warmer climate with her two children. Still married to her estranged husband, Joshua Lahti, from whom she had been separated for eight years,  it appears that Holly Lahti will be required to divide her newly acquired wealth. Married in 2001, they were both charged after an instance of domestic violence in 2003.  Since then …

Rocker John Mellencamp and his Almay-Model Wife Elaine File for Divorce

Rocker John Mellencamp and his Almay-model wife Elaine Irwin announced that they have filed for divorce after 18 years of marriage. Court documents indicate that Mellencamp and Irwin separated in September 2010, and have confirmed that the pair signed a prenuptial agreement. A child custody agreement in currently in place. The couple has two children, ages 15 and 16.

Need Marital Advice?

Researchers at Brigham Young University offer an extensive online marital assessment, called Relate, for couples and individuals. The detailed questionnaire, at www.relate-institute.org, takes about 35 minutes to complete and generates a lengthy report with color-coded graphs depicting a couple’s communication and conflict style, how much effort each partner puts into the relationship, and other things. The fee is $20 to $40. Here's how it works: You complete a comprehensive, research-based questionnaire about the four major predictors of marital stability. We provi …

Save Your Marriage!

Access the Resource Center on our website for a list of therapists who work with married couples in crisis! www.harrisfamilylaw.com

Divorcing Wisely

Divorce is an unpleasant process for all concerned, but if you proceed wisely you can minimize the pain: http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/process.cfm?task=admin.editPage&pageId=345

Questions About Divorce? Attend Our FREE Seminar!

Come to our free seminar on Thursday, February 10th from 12 pm to 1 pm at The Harris Law Firm: 1125 17th St, Suite 1820, Denver, CO 80202. Margaret Walker, Esq. will lead the seminar. To RSVP - call 303 299 9484

Texas Court of Appeals Grants Gay Divorce

DALLAS – The Texas Attorney General ruled that the court can't block a divorce granted to two women who were legally married elsewhere, an appeals court ruled Friday. A judge in Austin granted a divorce last February to Angelique Naylor and Sabina Daly, who were married in Massachusetts in 2004 and then returned home to Texas. A day after the divorce was granted, Texas Attorney General Gregg Abbott filed a motion to intervene in the case, arguing the judge didn't have the jurisdiction to grant the divorce because Texas has a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage. The judge ruled th …

Making Time for Each Other: Date Night for Married Couples

Share your expectations with each other regarding your upcoming date Agree that date night is just for the two of you to reconnect and enjoy each other's company Calendar date night at least once a month and make your evening together a priority Your date should last at least 2 hours and be away from home Choose events for date night that you will both enjoy and look forward to. Schedule child care prior to your evening out together Have a good time!

Appellate Court Rules that Divorce Settlement Will be Reopened Due to Worthless Assets

Attorney Steven Simkin recently appealed the courts decision regarding his divorce settlement. His portion of the assets that were divided per the divorce decree included a now worthless $2.7 million investment portfolio managed by Bernard Madoff. Simkin and his wife divorced in 2006 after a 33-year marriage, and the divorce settlement included over $6.5 million in payments from Simkin to his ex. Simkin asked that the divorce settlement be adjusted to reflect the fact that a large portion of his share of the deal was an investment account that was a worthless asset. A majority of the five …

When Can a Child Decide?

  In the State of Colorado, there is no statute that references a specific age at which a child can determine the parent with whom they wish to live. A parent can file a motion with the Court requesting a modification to the parenting agreement, in which case the child’s wishes can be considered by the Court, but there is no guarantee the Judge will rule in favor of the child’s request. To what extent the Court takes the child's wishes into consideration completely depends on the child' maturity, the reasonableness of the request, and to what extent the Co …

Kelsey Grammer Will Divide Marital Assets that Exceed $100 Million

Former Fraser star, Kelsey Grammer wants his pending divorce from third wife Camille Grammer to be finalized as soon as possible, but the divorce will cost him a bundle. Grammer has asked the California court that the dissolution of marriage be granted as quickly as possible so he can marry British flight attendant Kayte Walsh. Ms. Walsh will be his fourth wife. Unlike Colorado, where it takes a minimum of 90 days to obtain a divorce, the minimum amount of time that it takes to obtain dissolution of marriage in the State of California is six months after the petition is filed. Camille …

How to Address Infidelity

Do you think that your spouse may be cheating? There are signs to look for when you suspect infidelity. But remember even if your wife or husband has had an affair, it may not be the end of your marriage. Before you call a Denver divorce attorney at The Harris Law Firm to file for a Colorado divorce, consider couples counseling to see if you can repair the damage to your marriage together. There are many qualified counselors listed on our website. http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/process.cfm?task=admin.editPage&pageId=330    

2010 Celebrity Divorces

Award winning actress Sandra Bullock divorced husband Jesse James in 2010. They have no children together, but Bullock adopted a little boy from New Orleans. Sandra had also been a stepmom to James' kids from his previous relationships. Actor Charlie Sheen and his third wife, Brooke Mueller, agreed to divorce this year. The couple married in May 2008 and has twin sons, Bob and Max. Country music singer and actress LeAnn Rimes and husband Dean Sheremet, a television actor, finalized their divorce this year. They had no children together. Country music singer Shania Twain and her …

Merry Christmas at The Arapahoe House from The Harris Law Firm!

    www.arapahoehouse.org    Jenny Kang, a Paralegal with The Harris Law Firm collected a sleigh-load of gifts for the families of the Arapahoe House. Arapahoe House is a non-profit corporation dedicated to providing a continuum of accessible, affordable, and effective services for individuals and families with alcohol, drug or other behavioral health problems. Thank you Jenny Kang!  

Happy Holidays Everyone!

All of us at The Harris Law Firm wish you a very happy holiday season!

Do You Need to File for Enforcement?

At the close of litigated family law proceedings, Colorado Courts enter permanent orders to establish the rights and obligations of the parties involved. In cases where both parties have agreed upon a settlement, the terms of the agreement are included in the final settlement agreement or permanent orders. The enforcement or modification of a court order is the goal in post decree matters. If you need to file for enforcement, call The Harris Law Firm, Colorado's family law team at 303 299 9484 To access this article about enforcing a Colorado court order in it's entirety: plea …

Creating a Settlement Agreement

If the parties to a Colorado divorce action are able to come to an agreement regarding the division of marital assets and debt, and a parenting schedule, they will prepare a Separation Agreement that defines the terms of their settlement. The Separation Agreement is submitted to the family law court for review. If the Court determines that the terms are fair to the parties involved, the Court will approve the agreement. Once approved, the terms become Orders of the Court, and the parties are subject to contempt if the terms of the ag …

Trust Accounts and Colorado Divorce

If a spouse who is a party to a Colorado divorce is a beneficiary of a trust, their interest in the trust may constitute marital property under Colorado law. When trust issues are involved in a divorce matter there is generally a collaboration between the Colorado divorce attorney and the trust lawyer to determine if marital property exists within the trust. A Trust is a legal entity that can hold title to property for the benefit of one or more other persons or entities. The person who sets up the trust is called the Creator, Grantor, Trustor, Donor, or Settlor. Th …

What is a "No Fault" Divorce?

      A "No fault" divorce means that the Colorado divorce courts do not inquire into the reasons for the dissolution of marriage. The reasons for your divorce or legal separation may include issues like infidelity, lack of communication, and/or problems regarding money. Although the reasons for the termination of your marriage are important to you, and addressing them will be equally important as you move through the divorce process with your divorce attorney, the Colorado courts are focused on having you divide your martial assets and debt in an equitable man …

Attorney John Tatlock Presents Special Program to Holme Roberts and Owens

  On December 13th, 2010, Colorado family law attorney John Tatlock, Special Counsel to The Harris Law Firm , P.C., delivered a presentation to the litigation practice group at Holme Roberts and Owens on the practice and procedure for obtaining binding deposition testimony from an organization, in contract to depositions from individual persons.The presentation focused on the issues, problems and best practices for taking the official binding testimony from corporations, partnerships,banks and governmental agencies. John Tatlock practices Colorado family law with …

Making Your Marriage Work

    Making Your Marriage Work All marriages have their challenges, but here are some tips to help salvage your troubled relationship when you are faced with life’s inevitable ups and downs.   Seek to Remedy Your Issues Quickly   When you identify a problem within your marriage, deal with the issue immediately. The more time you wait without making an effort to remedy the problem, the more likely is becomes that the issue will escalate.   Spend Quality Time Together   When you find that you …

Be Careful Who You Date!

  When The Harris Law Firm’s client began dating a previously married woman, little did he know that he would be swept into a legal fight with the woman’s vengeful ex-husband. Nearly two years and several thousand dollars in attorney’s fees later, the firm assisted the client in defeating husband’s scorched-earth litigation tactics and in recovering the lion’s share of the attorney’s fees he had to spend in defending himself from the ex-husband’s aggressive and unrestrained litigation.   Husband opened his legal attacks by c …

Helping Your Children Cope with Divorce

What I need from my mom and dad: A child’s list of wants I need both of you to stay involved in my life. Please write letters, make phone calls, and ask me lots of questions. When you don’t stay involved, I feel like I’m not important and that you don’t really love me. Please stop fighting and work hard to get along with each other. Try to agree on matters related to me. When you fight about me, I think that I did something wrong and I feel guilty. I want to love you both and enjoy the time that I spend with each of you. Please support me and the time …

2010 State of Our Unions Report

  Marriage Strongest Among Well-Educated, Less So Among Moderately Educated                   The University of Virginia’s National Marriage Project and the Institute for American Values’ Center for Marriage and Families issued its 2010 State of Our Unions report on marriage yesterday, December 6. The report, titled “When Marriage Disappears: The Retreat from Marriage in Middle America,” observes that the institution of marriage appears to be attenuating among “Middle Americans …

Divorce Funding: Investing in Your Divorce

Balance Point Divorce Funding is a new Beverly Hills lender that offers to cover the cost of divorce. Their services include paying your lawyer, searching for assets that your spouse may be hiding, as well as maintaining your current lifestyle. All this in exchange for a share of the divorce proceeds. The concept is part of a larger trend of companies that invests in the lawsuits of others, supplying the plaintiffs with the funds they require to assist them in obtaining even more assets from defendants. According to recent estimates, …

Stephen Vertucci, Esq. Teaches Ethics Class to Fort Collins Students

  Stephen Vertucci, Partner with The Harris Law Firm in Fort Collins, was the chairman of a committee that provided a three day “Ethics in the Workplace” exercise for over 400 Fort Collins area high school students.  The program was sponsored by the four Fort Collins area Rotary Clubs and its vocational services committee of which Mr. Vertucci is a member.  The students were divided according to career interests, and placed in discussion groups of 6 with a Rotarian who worked in that particular field.  Rotarians asked the students challenging, but practical, wo …

Mediation and Collaborative Law

On November 4th, at the Colorado Alternative Dispute Resolution Conference, Margaret Walker, a family law attorney and mediator with The Harris Law Firm , discussed Collaborative law and the divorce process .  Her presentation, " A Marriage Made in Heaven: Using Mediation in Collaborative Divorce" outlined the benefits of using mediators in the collaborative process to control costs. As a board member of the Colorado Collaborative Law Professionals, Ms Walker voted with the Executive Council of the Family Law Section to support the introduction of the Uniform&nbs …

Eva Longoria and Tony Parker File for Divorce, but what State has Jurisdiction?

Eva Longoria and Tony Parker have filed for divorce, but Tony filed in Texas after Eva filed in California. Issues regarding jurisdiction in divorce are more complex than in civil cases. The jurisdictional requirements for an order or judgment for support or attorneys' fees are entirely different from those to obtain custody. Similarly, a court may have jurisdiction to dissolve a marriage, but not be able to issue binding judgments regarding support or custody. For example, a California court could issue a child support order against a father living in California, based on the fathers contact …

The Harris Law Firm's Fort Collins Office

The Harris Law Firm in Fort Collins now has 3 family law attorneys to serve the community. The office is managed by firm partner, Stephen Vertucci. Associates include Andrea Koppenhofer and Jonathan White. The firm is located at 123 North College Avenue, in Suite 200 of the Executive Center, Fort Collins, CO 80524. To make an appointment to discuss your famly law matter in Fort Collins, please call The Harris Law Firm at 303 299 9484.

Divorce Becoming More Common in Long Term Marriages

Recent research shows that the divorce rate among couples who have been married for 2, 3 or even 4 decades is becoming more common. Although it is significantly lower when compared to a divorce rate of almost 50% among romantic  newlyweds, divorce among the long-married is still higher than it was a generation ago. Experts say that the reasons for the dissolution of marriage include the fact that we are simply living longer, and our current culture has a more open-minded acceptance than it did in the past. The public's perception remains that married cou …

Divorce Rate in Michigan Declines

The Divorce rates in Michigan are declining statewide for two reasons: 1. Couples are marrying later in life, and thus have more realistic expectations about the insitution of marriage 2. The economy in Michigan is suffering and fiances are a factor in the state's lower divorce rate. When a couple divorces, they are dividing their income in half, doubling expenses, and dividing debt, including the debt they incur filing for divorce. To read more about marital debt in the State of Colorado please click here: http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/articles …

Author Nora Ephron Brings Wisdom and Humor to her Divorce Memoirs

In her new book I REMEMBER NOTHING: And Other Reflections, the always humorous author and screenwriter Nora Ephron reflects on the effects of her two divorces on her life and the lives of her two children. The author of Sleepless in Seattle and You've Got Mail says: "The most important thing about me, for quite a long chunk of my life, was that I was divorced. Even after I was no longer divorced but remarried, this was true. I have now been married to my third husband for more than twenty years. But when you've had children with someone you're divorced from, divorce defines ever …

Relocation and Modifying Your Parenting Plan

In the State of Colorado, following a divorce, parental rights are outlined by parental agreements or the Allocation of Parental Rights (APR) When a custodial parent wishes to relocate, the court must consider the following before modifying the parenting plan: The reason for the relocation  The objections of the other parent The child's relationship with each parent The impact of the relocation on the child Educational opportunities for the children in the current and in the new loca …

Miley Cyrus is “Not Taking Sides” in her Parents’ Divorce

Miley Cyrus, the “Can’t Be Tamed” hitmaker is said to be “upset” by her parents divorce. After 17 years of marriage, 49-year-old singer Billy Ray Cyrus and 43-year-old wife and mother Tish Cyrus, have filed to obtain a dissolution of marriage. A source told People.com that Miley is not taking sides, and is trying to keep the matter private while her family works through this challenging time. Billy Ray filed for divorce on October 26, and announced the pair were hoping for people to pray for them to get through the emotional time. In a state …

How do Colorado Judges Address Child Support and Parenting Time?

Before the Judge rules regarding the allocation of parental responsibilities (child support and/or parenting time), he or she bases the decision on Colorado's ”Best Interest of the Child Statute“. The Colorado statute specifically states that there should be “frequent and continuing contact” between the children and both parents, unless a parent presents a danger of physical or psychological harm to the children. Evidence of such danger might be explicit, such as a conviction for domestic violence, another violent crime, or a crime th …

More on Divorce Insurance

LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwire - November 3, 2010) - Just weeks after the launch of the nation's first divorce insurance, Los Angeles Divorce Attorney Mark Baer is cautioning 'would be' insureds to think carefully before investing in this novel insurance; the consequences may very well outweigh the benefits and destroy the sanctity of marriage. Over the years he's practiced law, Attorney Baer has helped hundreds of couples dissolve their marriages with the goal of causing the least amount of damage to their families. As a mediator, a collaborative law attorney and an experienced litigator, …

The Cost of High Conflict Marriages and Divorces

In my work with children and families over the years, I have seen many children who are caught up in the conflict of their parents, whether they are together or not. Next to abuse and abandonment, seeing children involved in a high conflict custody battle or exposed to daily parental conflict, is particularly devastating. Unfortunately children too often become emotional pawns between warring parents and they feel powerless, confused and anxious. While no well meaning parent really wants to hurt their children, it is easy for parents who are in pain or are in a lot of conflict, to lose sight …

Charlie Sheen to Divorce Again

US actor Charlie Sheen filed for divorce from Brooke Mueller, his wife of two years, just days after being taken to hospital following a reported drunken incident at the Plaza Hotel in New York. The star of sitcom "Two and a Half Men" filed for the dissolution of marriage at the Los Angeles Superior Court to divorce Brooke Mueller, whom he wed in May 2008 but split from on Christmas Day 2009 when arrested in Aspen, Colorado for allegedly assaulting her. Sheen, 45, and Mueller, 33, have twin sons Bob and Max, born in March 2009. The couple have a pre-nuptial agreement, according to …

More Women and Middle Class Couples Seeking Pre Nups

Pre Nups: Plan for the Worst and Hope for the Best More and more middle class couples are taking a cautious approach to marriage and drafting prenuptial agreements before saying "I do". Family law atttorneys are seeing more women and middle-class couples seeking marital agreements, which can include adultery clauses, protection of retirement benefits and even custody of the dog, according to the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which represents more than 1 600 lawyers. “It's a planning tool. Given that half of marriages end in divor …

Post-Decree Modifications

Even after a dissolution of marriage is finalized, situations may arise that will stimulate you to modify child support and/or the maintenance agreement.  If you are seeking a modification after your divorce, please contact The Harris Law Firm  to schedule a consultation with a lawyer who can review your options, discuss strategy, and help you find a solution to your legal issue. When deciding a Relocation case or Cusody issue, the court will consider: •The parent’s reason for relocation •The other parent' …

Helping Your Kids Cope During the Divorce Process

Although divorce is a painful and difficult transition for you and your spouse, it is important to remember that a divorce or legal separation is also a challenging time for your kids. To help your children through this trying time, we have provided a list of things that you can do to help your kids through the changes you are facing separately and together: Don't ask your kids to take sides in your divorce. Tell them that you love them, and will allow and encourage them to love both parents. Tell your children that your divorce is NOT your fault. Tel …

Saving Your Marriage: Don't Take Each Other for Granted!

If you are taking your spouse for granted because you believe that your partner will always be there for you, you are making a huge mistake. Take the time and make the effort to be kind, thoughtful, appreciative, respectful, supportive, and affirming towards your spouse. Not taking your spouse for granted means going beyond remembering your anniversary and your spouse's birthday. Not taking your spouse for granted means being tuned in to how your spouse feels and what your spouse thinks. If you dont know, take the time to simply ask! Not taking your spouse for granted means you listen, you d …

Filing an Appeal for a Family Law Case

There is no set time line for an appeal. In most cases, an appeal filed with the Colorado Court of Appeals will take approximately five to seven months. Although the deadlines may vary, the general deadlines for filing an appeal with Court of Appeals are as follows: Within 45 days of the date the final order is entered by the trial court - the appeal process must be initiated within 45 days of the final order from the trial court. This is done by filing a Notice of Appeal. Within 10 days of filing the Notice of Appeal - the individual filing the appeal must file a listing of the documents …

Nineteen is the Age of Emancipation in Colorado

Many people assume that eighteen years old is the age in which children are emancipated. However, in Colorado, children are emancipated at the age of nineteen. Therefore, parents have a child support obligation until each child reaches the age of nineteen. Normally the parenting plan stays in place until each child reaches the age of eighteen or has graduated from high school. In addition, some parenting plans include agreements that encompass post-secondary schooling. The Court does not have jurisdiction to force the parties to make agreements for the child past this age, but the parents ma …

Colorado's Spousal Support (Maintenance or Alimony)

Colorado Maintenance is what we now call alimony, support, or spousal support. The "threshold requirements" to qualify for maintenance are: 1. After division of property, there is insufficient property to care for his/her reasonable needs; and 2. Inability of one spouse to support him/herself through appropriate employment and the ability of other spouse to pay support. Colorado Maintenance is based on the specifics of each case and the discretion of the Judge. The facts that the Judge will consider are: 1. The financial and non-financial contribution of each part …

Inheritance Rights for a Relinquished Colorado Child

    When a Colorado birth parent relinquishes his or her parental rights under the Colorado Revised Statute Title 19 Children's Code, what rights does the child have to inherit? It depends if the child is subsequently adopted. Under C.R.S. 19-5-104(5), after a relinquishment, the relinquishing parent or parents no longer have legal rights or obligations to the relinquished child. However, the relinquishing parents have a support obligation to the child. Likewise, a relinquished child's status as an "heir" does not cease at the time of relinquishment and the child …

A New Twist on the Traditional Family Relationship

To see this article by partner, Stephen Vertucci, Esq. in it's entirety, please click here: http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/a-new-twist-on-the-traditional-family-relationship When we think of an heir at law, we usually think of intestate estates—that is, dying without a Last Will and Testament. When we think of adoption, we usually think of an adult adopting a child. A stepfather adopting his wife’s young son, for example. But there is another kind of adoption. Colorado specifically provides for the adoption of an adult, too.

Divorce Becoming More Common in China

There was hardly any confusion about marriage and family life in old China. Traditional Chinese culture frowned on divorce. An ancient proverb admonishes newlyweds: "You are married until your hair turns white." In practice, of course, men played a more dominant role in Chinese families and got away with most things, including marital dalliances. It was shameful for women to marry more than once while it was easy for men to take one or more concubines. But the times are changing in modern China. The economic miracle that followed the country's opening to the outside world after 197 …

What is "Equitable Division of Property"?

Often people hear the term "equitable division", and they think  that it means the equal (50/50) division of property in a dissolution of marriage proceeding. However, the courts are vested with discretion in dividing up martial property and distributing it among the parties. Equitable division, therefore, is not a guarantee of an even 50/50 split among the parties. A court may divide and distribute property as it deems just based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to one spouse's foregone income or educational opportunties, one spouse's contribution to …

Choose Wisely When Hiring an Attorney to Draft Your Pre-Nup

Nicolas Granatino, the soon to be former husband of German Heiress Katrin Radmacher, arrived at the London Supreme Court with his lawyer , the notable Fiona Shackleton, to hear the ruling on his divorce case. French citizen Grantino challenged their prenuptial contract and the one million pound divorce settlement with his former wife, a German heiress Katrin Radmacher, who is said to be worth over 100 million pounds. Britain's Supreme Court ruled in favor of the German heiress today in a divorce case that gives new validity to having a prenuptial agreement written by an exp …

U.S. Cities with the Highest Divorce Rate

The top 10 cities reign for marital discord. 1, Panama City, FL 2, Sierra Vista, AZ 3, Charleston, WV 4, Medford, OR 5, Reno, NV 6, Deltona, FL 7. Pueblo, CO 8, Palm Bay, FL 9, Jacksonville, FL 10, Grand Junction, CO  

Does Marriage Bring a Great Degree of Happiness?

But betting on marriage to bring you happiness may be a risky gamble since about 48 percent of marriages end in divorce [source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention]. Nevertheless, psychologists have pointed to marriage as the single most reliable happiness indicator. Across nations and ethnic groups, people report greater happiness from marriage than career, community or money [source: Seligman]. A 2005 survey from the Pew Research Center substantiates these assertions. Forty-three percent of married respondents reported that they were "very happy," compared to 24 percent of …

During Recession, Divorcing Couples Divide Debt

Rich Harris, President of The Harris Law Firm, was interviewed recently for article published by the Denver Business Journal regarding how the current recession has effected the number of divorce cases in Colorado. Rich Harris said: Assets are worth significantly less than they were a few years ago, which means divorce cases are more contentious. We now spend a lot of time fighting over the divison of debt rather than assets.

Spouse Held Accountable for "Extravagant Spending"

  In a divorce trial today, Stephen Vertucci, Partner with The Harris Law Firm, was successful in protecting 100% of client’s assets from the spouse due to the extravagant manner in which the other spouse was spending money during the divorce proceedings. The Court found that the opposing party had spent marital assets during the proceedings that exceeded day to day reasonable needs and as a consequence, the Court awarded client of The Harris Law FIrm 100% of the client's retirement assets, bank accounts, investments and equity in the marital residence. During a …

More on Common Law Marriage

http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/common-law-marriage Please access the article on common law marriage by Partner Stephen Vertucci

Partner Stephen Vertucci Promotes Literacy in Fort Collins

As a part of the Fort Collins Rotary Breakfast Club, Stephen Vertucci, Partner with The Harris Law Firm, sells Palisade peaches to raise funds to purchase hard cover, color dictionaries to be given to each third grader in the Poudre Valley school district.  The program is a part of Rotary READ, a section of Rotary devoted to promoting literacy and enthusiasm for reading among elementary students in the Fort Collins area.   This year’s program was a resounding success.  Over 1800 cases of peaches were sold which helped purchase 2500 dictionaries.  In September, Mr. V …

Expressing Love

The 5 Love Languages™ What if you could say or do just the right thing guaranteed to make that special someone feel loved? The secret is learning the right love language! Millions of couples have learned the simple way to express their feelings and bring joy back into marriage: The 5 Love Languages, Dr. Gary Chapman’s New York Times bestseller! Words of Affirmation—Actions don’t always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, "I love you," are important—hearing the reas …

Courtney Cox and David Arquette Agree to Separate

Courteney Cox and David Arquette, parents to 6-year-old daughter Coco, have agreed to a trial separation. In a recent statement, the couple said: “The reason for this separation is to better understand ourselves and the qualities we need in a partner and for our marriage. We remain best friends and responsible parents to our daughter and we still love each other deeply. As we go though this process we are determined to use kindness and understanding to get through this together.We are comfortable with the boundaries that we have established for each other during this separation and we h …

Can My New Spouse Adopt My Child?

In order to file for a step parent adoption,in the State of Colorado you have to file a motion with the court to have the biological father’s parental rights terminated before your new spouse can adopt the child. The Harris Law Firm can help, and we have an attorney who specializes in the area of step-parent adoption and termination of parental rights cases. Our firm will ensure you have the proper guidance thoughout the  Colorado Step Parent Adoption process.

See Our Post -Divorce Checklist

http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/the-post-divorce-checklist

Couples With Daughters More Likely to Divorce

  By COURTNEY HUTCHISON, ABC News Medical Unit Little girls may be sugar and spice and everything nice, but having a daughter might boost a couple's risk of divorce, according to 2000 census data. Not only did researchers find that couples with sons are more likely to stick together, unmarried pregnant couples were more likely to have shotgun weddings if the baby was going to be a boy and divorced mothers of boys are more likely to remarry and stay remarried. Does this mean that daughters are matrimonially risky and sons are marriage saviors? Not so fast, psychologists say. In the …

Could Your Career Choice Make Or Break Your Marriage?

Based on Census data from 2000, and current research by Radford University, the chance of a marriage ending in divorce could be predicted by your career choice. Research indicated that Forty-three percent of marriages end in divorce when one or both of the spouses work as a dancer or choreographer. Bartenders and massage therapists have the second- and third-highest rates of divorce. Agricultural and nuclear engineers had the lowest divorce rates. By Cindi Remy

Points to Consider Before you File for Divorce

You and your attorney will be spending a great deal of time together during the divorce process, so it is important that you hire a lawyer that you trust. The dissolution of marriage can be emotionally exhausting, so choose someone with whom you are comfortable discussing the details of your situation. Consider interviewing several lawyers before you hire counsel and remember that many reputable and seasoned attorneys often charge a consultation fee. It is worth paying a nominal fee to obtain an experienced lawyer. To review this article in it's entirety, please click here- http://w …

Collaborative Divorce Goes to Hollywood

Cameron Crowe, Nancy Wilson Divorcing By K. McKinney | Published: September 24, 2010 Director Cameron Crowe and his wife, Nancy Wilson, filed divorce papers this week in Los Angeles. Wilson, a member of the rock band Heart since 1974, technically filed the divorce petition (available at TMZ.com) but it appears to be a collaborative divorce in which both parties have worked together to settle all related matters prior to filing in court. Wilson, a singer and songwriter from the rock band Heart, filed divorce papers Thursday in L.A. County Superior Court, citing irreconcilable differences. Sh …

Signs that Your Spouse May be having an Affair

What do you look for when you think your spouse may be cheating? 1. "I love you, but am not in love with you" These words may be an indication that your spouse is having an affair. They want you to know that they still love you, but are currently in love with someone new. 2. Maintaining that the new person is "just a friend" Most serious relationships begin as friendships. 3. Needing more privacy Cell phone and credit card bills may start going to the office, and new passwords will protect computer access. For the entire article, please click here: htt …

Kids' Divorce Art Gallery - Helping Kids Cope

From the Colorado Center for Divorce Mediation, please visit their Kids’ Divorce Art Gallery:  Expressive Imagery of Children's Experience of Divorce To access, please go to the following site: http://www.coloradodivorcemediation.com/art/gallery.asp As goes the Chinese proverb, “A picture is worth ten thousand words.”  Listen as young artists speak:

Super Model Stephanie Seymour to Reconcile with Billionaire Husband

Former supermodel Stephanie Seymour and entertainment tycoon Peter Brant are ending their high-profile divorce proceedings and "reconciling" out of court, the couple said today. "The parties have withdrawn their divorce action and are reconciling," the two told ABC News in a statement, asking that their privacy "be respected." The couple was in a Connecticut court this morning and was expected to face off over custody of their three children and a fortune that includes lavish homes in some of the most exclusive destinations in the country

Divorce for Law Enforcement Professionals

Read a recent article by Kevin Massaro, Esq., Of Counsel, with The Harris Law Firm: http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/worsethan-gunfire-divorce-and-law-enforcement-professionals

Family Law Judges Prefer that Litigants Have Legal Representation

The better the litigant is prepared for their hearing, the more efficiently the court operates. Thus, Colorado family law judges prefer fully represented and fully prepared litigants, and say that the inexperience of pro-se litigants often has a negative effect on the operation of the court. Clients benefit from having the direction of an experienced family law attorney who can guide them through a myriad of  legal and court related issues. And using an experienced domestic relations lawyer means that your documents will be prepared and executed with for …

How We View the American Family

New research on this topic is contained in a book length study by Brian Powell,an Indiana University sociologist, called "Counted Out; Same Sex Relations and American's Definition of Family." Between 2003 and 2010, three surveys by Powell and his team showed a significant shift toward counting same-sex couples with children as family, from 54% of respondents in 2003 to 68% in 2010. In all, more than 2300 people were surveyed.

The best parenting plan allows both parents to be involved in the life of the child.

Children of divorce need to be allowed to have healthy and separate relationships with both parents.  If one parent  has a strained relationship with the other parent, and/or decides that the behavior of the other parent is inappropriate for the child, they must work to resolve the issue without involving the child. Children must be free to create a relationship with their other parent on their own terms without undue influence. Parents who are obsessed with alienating their child from the other parent are often vehement in …

Divorce ceremonies give Japanese couples a new way to untie the knot

One by one, Japenese couples are walking through the legal steps of finalizing their divorces: dividing property, determining child custody and arranging the college fund. But when it comes to settling the heartache over the end of a marriage, Japanese couples are finding that the legal system had no formal recovery process. Thus the new divorce ceremony. One in four marriages in Japan now ends in divorce, yet it's still considered a cultural taboo. These increasingly popular divorce ceremonies help some Japanese cope with the country's changing social norms, accordin …

12 Mistakes People Make When Representing Themselves

  For a variety of reasons, many people choose to represent themselves in a divorce, custody, child support or other family law case. The decision of whether to hire an attorney to represent you or to choose to represent yourself may be one of the most important decisions one makes regarding their children, their family and their financial security. Often, we meet clients who have attempted to represent themselves, but found they became overwhelmed or made significant errors and are now trying to "undo" what happened in their case. Colorado law states that parties who are rep …

12 Mistakes People Make When Representing Themselves

    For a variety of reasons, many people choose to represent themselves in a divorce, custody, child support or other family law case. The decision of whether to hire an attorney to represent you or to choose to represent yourself may be one of the most important decisions one makes regarding their children, their family and their financial security. Often, we meet clients who have attempted to represent themselves, but found they became overwhelmed or made significant errors and are now trying to "undo" what happened in their case. Colorado law states that parties w …

9 Questions to Ask a Family Law Attorney Before You Hire Them

  1. Have you ever been found in violation of an ethics rule?   Attorneys are held to high ethical standards regarding how they practice law and the customer service they provide for clients. If an attorney violates these rules, their license to practice to law can be suspended, revoked or placed on probation. Practicing law with the highest degree of ethics is at the core of what we do at The Harris Law Firm. In our firm, none of our attorneys have ever been found in violation of any ethics rules.   2. Is family law the only area of law you practice?   Th …

The "Pack to School" Program!

Stephen Vertucci, a partner with The Harris Law Firm, recently volunteered for the Education & Life Training Center's "Pack 2 School" program in Fort Collins. For over 40 years, the center has provided children of income qualified families with new school supplies. The program is unique in that it allows the children to choose their own supplies in the colors and styles of their choice! This year, the program provided supplies to over1,000 students! Thank you Stephen!  

Couples Using Mediation to Reduce Cost of Divorce

Couples Using Mediation to Reduce Cost of Divorce Our current recession, which has been the most brutal economic downturn since the Great Depression, has also affected the nation’s divorce rate. The reluctance for many couples to delay divorce is based in part on their devalued assets and increasing debts. According to the most-recent S&P/Case-Shiller national index, at the end of the first quarter of 2010 average home values were down almost 31% from their high in mid-2006. Many portfolios have been ravaged as the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 28% from October 2007 to August of …

The Harris Law Firm Voted Best Family Law Firm

Law Week Colorado voted The Harris Law Firm as The Best Family Law Firm! The firm received this honor by the People's Choice in Law Week Colorado's Barrister's Best issue on August 30th 2010.

Helping Kids Cope

What I need from my mom and dad: A child's list of wants I need both of you to stay involved in my life. Please write letters, make phone calls, and ask me lots of questions. When you do not stay involved, I feel like i am m not important and that you do not t really love me. Please stop fighting and work hard to get along with each other. Try to agree on matters related to me. When you fight about me, I think that I did something wrong and I feel guilty. I want to love you both and enjoy the time that I spend with each of you. Please support me and the time that I spend with each of …

Tiger Free to Focus on Golf

With his divorce finally behind him, Tiger Woods will compete in his first tournament in six years as a single man at this week's Barclays Classic in Paramus, N.J., amid much speculation over his form. The scandal-hit American world No. 1 has been a shadow of his former dominant self since his double life was exposed at the end of last year following multiple revelations of his marital infidelities. Woods has yet to win in nine starts this season, produced the worst four-round performance of his PGA Tour career at the WGCBridgestone Invitational and has struggled with his mental focus -an ar …

Drug Testing in the Colorado Parenting Plan

If one parent has been accused, or has admitted using and abusing drugs and/or alcohol, then you may wish to add contingent agreements in your parenting plan that include drug and alcohol testing. The agreement may designate a certain duration, the frequency, the location of a drug and alcohol testing facility, and who is responsible to pay for the testing. Also, the agreement may reflect the conditions that occur when a drug and alcohol test is not passed. Sometimes the Court will order such conditions as part of the parenting plan. However, the parties may agree to such testing as we …

It's Time to Review Your Parenting Plan

August is Colorado's month to register children for school. It is a good time to review your parenting plan to see which parent, or if both parents, are to decide which school the children should attend and who is to register the children. If one parent has "sole decision making" regarding the education of the children, then it is usually that parent who is expected to decide which school the children should attend, and then register the children. When the parents share joint decision making, the parents should discuss the children's school options, and then make a joint d …

Would You Buy "Divorce Insurance"?

  SafeGuard Guaranty Corp., a North-Carolina based insurance company, has determined how to calculate the statistical probability that your marriage will end in divorce. They're also offering WedLock, what they claim is the first-ever divorce insurance. Their web site features a Divorce Probability Calculator, which claims to predict your probability of getting divorced within a 13% margin of error. By asking questions about race, religion, educational background, age, children, among others, the calculator can gauge your marital prospects based on actuarial info …

Sean Penn and Robin Wright's Divorce Finalized

There won't be an encore for Sean Penn and Robin Wright's marriage - court records show the couple are officially divorced. A judgment ending their 14-year marriage was entered July 22 in Marin County, which is in the Bay Area. The filing was first reported Wednesday by People.com The couple's marriage has been an on-again, off-again affair. Wright filed for divorce last August, the third time the couple petitioned to either separate or divorce. The filings show Penn and Wright will share custody of their 16-year-old son. They also have a 19-year-old daughter. Requests for comm …

New York Last State to Adopt the No-Fault Divorce

  Governor David Paterson signed no-fault divorce into law Sunday.  Previously New York judges could only grant a divorce quickly on ground cruelty, adultery, abandonment or imprisonment, meaning a spouse had to prove their mate's wrongdoing.  These options were expensive and time-consuming. Another, more time consuming alternative, was to legally separate for a year and then get a divorce later by consent.  Divorce will now move more quickly for those in this state. This new measure requires one spouse to swear under oath that a relationship has broken down fo …

More on Proposition 8!

  As a result of last week’s overturning of Proposition 8 by a California District Court Judge, many Californians wondered if the ban on same-sex marriage would be lifted or would remain in tact pending Prop 8’s journey through the appellate courts. Supporters of Prop 8 filed a motion seeking a stay of the court’s order until the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals had a chance to review the matter. The proponents argued that marriage in California would become even more complicated if same-sex couples are permitted to marry and the Ninth Circuit ultimately overturned th …

Questions About Divorce?

Come to The Harris Law Firm's  Free Questions About Divorce Seminar. The seminars are held once a month from 12 to 1 at The Harris Law Firm.  The firm is located on the 18th floor of The Chase Bank Building at 1125 17th Street, Suite 1820.  Call to make reservations for our next FREE seminar! 303 299 9484

Parents of Autistic Kids at Risk of Divorce?

Study Shows Three-Quarters of Parents of Autistic Children Stay Married By Denise Mann WebMD Health News Reviewed By Laura J. Martin, MD Aug. 6, 2010 -- Parents of children with autism may be more likely to divorce when their children reach adolescence or young adulthood than parents of children without this or other developmental disabilities, finds a new study in the August issue of the Journal of Family Psychology. Despite this increase in divorce seen as children with autism grew up, fully three-quarters of these parents did remain married, the new study showed. "You are not …

Does Your Unemployed Ex Refuse to Pay Child Support?

With the U.S. Department of Labor reporting the national unemployment rate at 9.5% as of June 30th, 2010,and Colorado’s jobless figure at 8.3%, more and more unemployed parents are unable to pay their court-ordered child support.  But what can the custodial parent  do if their former spouse has stopped paying child support and is currently not seeking employment?   A family law attorney can investigate the non-paying parents circumstances to determine if they have funds to pay child support. Your attorney can help you to determine if they are coll …

Relocation Cases Can Be Highly Complex

If you or your spouse are planning a relocation that is in contravention to your parenting plan, you should speak with a skilled Colorado family law attorney to discuss this issue. Relocation cases can be highly complex and The Harris Law Firm has two attorneys who focus on this specific legal matter.

California Rules Proposition 8 is Unconstitutional

In November 2008, Proposition 8 was passed in California outlawing same-sex marriage. After the passing of Proposition 8, two courageous same-sex couples, along with the City of San Francisco, took their case to Federal Court arguing that the terms of Proposition 8 deprive gays and lesbians of due process and equal protection under the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. On August 4th, Judge Vaughn Walker ruled that the Equal Protection Clause renders Proposition 8 unconstitutional under any standard of review. Although Proposition 8 fails to possess even a rational basis, the evidence …

The Good Karma Divorce

The Summer/Fall edition of Divorce Magazine features life-changing insights from the book “The Good Karma Divorce” by Judge Michele Lowrance, in which she helps spouses have a destruction-free divorce by creating a “moral compass.” Readers will also learn from other experts how to forgive their former spouse and move on with their life, and how to foster their child’s long-term adjustment to divorce. The issue also offers an array of helpful answers to frequently asked questions answered by local divorce lawyers and other divorce professionals, a financial health …

Calif. Federal Judge Set to Issue Ruling Today in Landmark Gay Marriage Case

The Associated Press A federal judge in San Francisco has reached a decision in a landmark case on whether California's same-sex marriage ban violates the constitutional rights of gay men and lesbians. Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker will issue his ruling Wednesday, said Lynn Fuller, a U.S. District Court spokeswoman. The decision came in a lawsuit brought by two same-sex couples seeking to overturn California's voter-approved Proposition 8, which outlaws gay marriage.  

Rich Harris discusses Colorado family law and the non-nuclear family

http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/process.cfm?task=admin.editPage&pageId=321

Grounds for Divorce?

A woman sees a lawyer about a divorce. "Any grounds?" he asks. Woman: Yeah, about 2 acres. Lawyer: Do you have a grudge? Woman: No, we have a car port. Lawyer: Does your husband beat you up in the morning? Woman: No, I get up before him. Agitated lawyer: Well, do you or don't you want a divorce? Woman: No, my husband wants it ... he says he can't communicate with me!  

Father's Rights

 If you are a father experiencing a divorce or legal separation in the State of Colorado, it is imperative that you consult a divorce and family law attorney who can assist you in protecting your parental rights. At The Harris Law Firm, we believe that fathers’ rights should be protected and the special relationship between father’s and their children should be equal to that of the mother.  It was not that long ago that the mother in any divorce would obtain the parental rights, and the father was awarded with visitation and child support. But in Colorado and throughout …

What I need from my mom and dad: A child’s list of wants

I need both of you to stay involved in my life. Please write letters, make phone calls, and ask me lots of questions. When you don’t stay involved, I feel like I’m not important and that you don’t really love me. Please stop fighting and work hard to get along with each other. Try to agree on matters related to me. When you fight about me, I think that I did something wrong and I feel guilty. I want to love you both and enjoy the time that I spend with each of you. Please support me and the time that I spend with each of you. If you act jealous or upset, I f …

The Harris Difference

There are six aspects of our practice that make The Harris Law Firm a superior choice 1. Focus on Family: The Harris Law Firm focuses exclusively on Colorado divorce and child custody, and our legal team has developed a level of expertise and efficiency that is simply more difficult to match. 2. Colorado's Family Law Team: Taking a progressive team approach, our partners and senior attorneys provide input during their team sessions. The attorneys share experiences, ask questions, strategize, and work together to address the specifics of your complex legal issues.   3. Focus on Chi …

Dating During the Divorce Process

If you are going through a divorce, and decide to begin dating during the process, there are several points to consider before establishing a new relationship: 1.Take the time you need to seriously ponder the reasons why your marriage ended, and seek the services of a counselor to help you through this challenging time. 2. Remember that bringing a new relationship into your life will bring new and different kinds of stress. 3. Be realistic about what you expect from another person and about what you have to offer a new relationship. 4. If you are still dealing with unre …

The Current Divorce Rate is 3.5 per 1000

Although it is higher now than it was a 100 years ago, the current divorce rate has been declining for the past 20 years. In 2000, there were 4 divorces per 1,000 people, but in 2008, according to provisional data for most states from the Centers for Disease Control, that rate had decreased to 3.5 divorces per 1,000. The rate at which couples are marrying has also decreased, but the divorce rate has also declined if expressed as the number of divorces per 1,000 married couples. Among first marriages that end in dissolution, husbands divorce at a median age of 31.8 and wiv …

Is Divorce Contagious? How You Can Beat the Bug

Scientist: If a Friend Gets Divorced, You Are 147 Percent More Likely to Do the Same By: JAY SHAYLOR July 20, 2010 The 'idea' of getting divorced, and/or the 'option' of getting divorced can be like a disease. This basic premise is based on the idea that thoughts can spread in a manner similar to that of a virus." When University of California, San Diego professor James Fowler talked to " Good Morning America", he discussed the fact that when one person expresses that they are considering leaving their spouse and filing for divorce, their thoughts can trigger simil …

Is the Defense of Marriage Act Legal?

A Federal Judge says "No." To read more, please access the entire article on our website by clicking below: http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/is-the-defense-of-marriage-act-valid-federal-district-court-judge-says-no

Becoming "Unstuck" by Therapist Sarah James

  Many people find themselves in a place in life where they feel completely stuck. They recognize their discomfort in the situation and wonder how they got there. The discomfort increases when the individual realizes they do not know how to transcend the situation and find relief. There are several steps to consider as we work to become unstuck: Step 1: We need to look into our inner blueprint to gain an understanding of our history that led us to this situation. Our blueprint displays the inner workings of our history and can provide information as to how we landed in the situation we …

Collecting Current or Past Due Child Support Via Income Withholding

Child Support Enforcement has the authority to deduct from a person's income for current or past due child support. An income assignment is issued to the obligor’s employer to deduct child support from wages or other income.

8th Judicial District Pro Se Pro Bono Facilitation Program

  Attorney Andrea Koppenhofer, an associate here at the Harris Law Firm, is coordinating a pioneering program instituted by Magistrate John Jostad, in the Domestic Relations division of the Larimer County Courts. The goal of the program is to provide low-income, pro se parties an opportunity to meet with a volunteer attorney who can facilitate an agreement between them at no cost. Under the 8th Judicial District Pro Se Pro Bono Facilitation Program, the Magistrate issues a Facilitation Order in post-decree cases involving issues of modification of child support and other issues deeme …

Grandparent's Rights in the State of Colorado

There are two types of cases involving grandparents rights:   1. In order to file for grandparent’s visitation, there needs must be an existing Court action open, or the grandparent’s child (the child’s parent) needs to be deceased.   2. In order to file for the allocation of parental responsibilities, the child must have been in the grandparent’s physical custody for at least 6 months.?   3. Another option for grandparents entails filing for guardianship, which would require that the grandparent petition the court.   Generally, speaking th …

Divorce after 50 signals change for women

Jane Glenn Haas • McClatchy-Tribune • July 11, 2010   I can still hear my mother's voice on the other end of the phone the morning after I told my husband I wanted a divorce. "Why are you getting divorced?" mom asked. "Because I'm not happy," I said. "Whoever told you that you were entitled to be happy?" she replied. That was in the 1970s when boomer women with economic independence sent divorce rates soaring. Unlike our mothers, we felt we were indeed entitled to be happy. After studies in the 1980s chronicled the impact of d …

Facebook: Too much info?

NEW YORK -- Facebook has a new friend -- divorce lawyers. When it comes time to find damaging evidence, the lawyers say social networking sites are often among the best places to look.     The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers says 81 percent of its members have been involved with cases using social networking evidence. Facebook is by far the biggest source -- with users often posting pictures of themselves and the other man or woman. There also sexually suggestive pictures, or snapshots involving the use drugs or booze. Attorney Linda Lea Viken has this advice for h …

Mass. Federal Judge Strikes Down Federal Ban on Gay Marriage

If Chief U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker is looking for a little more ammunition in order to shoot down Proposition 8, one of his Massachusetts colleagues just gave him some. U.S. District Judge Joseph Tauro ruled Thursday that the federal Defense of Marriage Act violated the Equal Protection Clause. Congress passed DOMA in 1996, defining marriage as a heterosexual union for purposes of a host of federal benefits and classifications. In his opinion, Tauro found that DOMA didn't even survive rational basis review, which is the least exacting form of constitutional scrutiny. Denying same-s …

Independence Day for Elin Woods

Swedish model Elin Nordegren will walk away from her disastrous marriage to Tiger Woods with a cool $100 million, according to TMZ. A source "with direct knowledge of the terms of the divorce" told the celebrity news network, "She'll be getting close to $100,000,000." Earlier this week, British tabloid The Sun reported Nordegren was set to receive $750,000, but TMZ disputes this, claiming Tiger's entire net worth is somewhere between $500 and $600 million. TMZ's sources say Elin will also receive child support but the amount is unknown. By comparison, one of Woods' fa …

The History of the No-Fault Divorce

Why No Fault Divorce? Legislators viewed burden of proof to be too heavy for divorcing people; particularly on women, who simply didn't have the resources or means to prove that their husband was at-fault for the broken marriage. No-fault divorce was therefore created to alleviate this burden, and create a more civil, humane, practical and accessible divorce process. While financial, custodial and other issues would still remain in the hands of the court (unless a negotiated settlement between spouses was reached), a unilateral claim of "irreconcilable differences" was sufficient t …

Protecting Your Pets

  Pets or animals owned by a protected person can now be included in protection orders. Restrained parties can be prohibited from threatening, molesting, injuring, killing, taking, transferring, encumbering, concealing, or disposing of any animal in the possession of a protected party. For more info, please click here: http://www.leg.state.co.us/CLICS/CLICS2010A/csl.nsf/fsbillcont3/B20600D170B0A42D872576A8002A88CC?Open&file=080_enr.pdf

Divorce Not Always Bad for Kids

New study shows that divorce is not always bad for the kids. To access this article, please click here: http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/divorce-not-always-bad-for-kids

Talking to Your Kids About Divorce

Although the discussion about divorce should be tailored to a child's age, maturity, and temperament, be sure to convey one basic message: What happened is between mom and dad and does not have anything to do with the kids. Most kids will feel they are to blame even after parents have said that they are not. So it's vital for parents to keep providing this reassurance. Whatever your child's immediate reaction, it's important to provide answers and reassurance about how life will change and what will stay the same. Be ready with answers to these questions, even before they're asked: …

Preserving Children's Rights

Rich Harris of The Harris Law Firm and Representative Debbie Benefield, D-Arvada worked to help pass Bill 1097.  The bill was designed to protect the children of unmarried parents, allowing them the same rights as those of divorced parents. The bill fixes an anomaly in the Colorado family law statutes. Read more at: http://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/process.cfm?task=admin.editPage&pageId=313  

Sandra Bullock's Divorce Finalized

After months of tabloid fodder and a very public split, the divorce between Sandra Bullock and Jesse James is now final. The couple have been in the headlines since tabloid reports of James' infidelity broke in March. James, 41, admitted to cheating on Bullock, 45, and later said he took "a pretty amazing life and marriage" and "threw it away." The two separated shortly after Bullock won the best actress Academy Award in March for her portrayal of Lee Anne Touhy, the tough-minded Memphis socialite who takes in a homeless Michael Oher in "The Blind Side." Then i …

Preventing Parental Child Abductions

Family law attorney Rich Harris, President of The Harris Law Firm says that "Although the tragedy associated with parental child abductions in Colorado is not common, the statistics still indicate that parents need to know how to protect themselves and their children. Prevention is worth a pound of cure in these cases, and when parents and children learn together how kidnappings occur, they can reduce the chances of it happening to them."   Retain originals of your child’s birth certificate and passport.     Maintain current photograp …

Maintenance and the Underemployed Spouse

  In cases where a spouse is not working, or is only working part time, the court may impute a higher income to an underemployed spouse for the purposes of establishing a maintenance award. Imputing income assumes that a party is capable of earning a specific amount. The courts’ decision to impute income depends upon a variety of factors that include the expectations regarding employment that were established during the marriage, whether a spouse has made an effort to obtain a more lucrative position, and the current availability of suitable employment. The issue of imputed inc …

Try Counseling First!

The Harris Law firm believes that meeting with a divorce lawyer should be your last step when your marriage is in trouble, not your first one. When a potential client calls The Harris Law , we ask to hear the story of the marriage and the reasons for divorce. When there's even a hint of ambivalence from the client,  we encourage that person to see a counselor first . Only when the clients are resolved that ending the marriage is the only solution, do we encourage them to meet with an attorney at the firm to discuss divorce. Then the couple will work w …

A Divorce Lawyer is the Last Option

If your marriage is in trouble, start by meeting with a competent family counselor or relationship therapist to discuss the steps you can take to improve your marriage. Find out why the two of you cannot seem to get along anymore and discover ways that you can begin to mend your relationship. You can begin by accessing the "Saving Your Marriage" section of our website for the names therapists in your area. Speaking with a Colorado Divorce Attorney should be your last option, not your first one.

Divorce Recovery can be More Costly than Divorce Itself

According to recent statistics from the National Center for Health, the U.S. divorce rate is currently estimated at 47.9 percent.  Based on legal expenses, child support, and travel for parental visits to non-custodial parents, the financial impact of divorce is estimated at $11.1 billion dollars annually. Another $75.1 billion per year is estimated for post-divorce therapy, individual and family counseling, life coaching, and other mental health related therapies.  While the circumstances associated with divorce are unique for every couple,&nb …

Using the Colorado Child Support Registry

Family Support Registry The Family Support Registry (FSR) is Colorado's centralized collection and disbursement unit for processing child support and maintenance payments. The FSR is responsible for activities associated with payment processing, such as: Address changes Payment inquiries Payment records Advantages of Using the Family Support Registry   Provides an accurate and easily accessible legal record of all payments received on your account Easily accessible payment records State-of-the-art technology to ensure fast, efficient, and …

The Colorado Counselor - Getting the Support You Need!

  Sarah James, LCSW, CAC 11 9220 Teddy Lane, Ste 1400 Lone Tree, CO 80124 Phone: 303-241-0421 www.thecoloradocounselor.com

Colorado's Family Law Team

The Harris Law Firm, "Colorado's Family Law Team",  now has 16 family law attorneys and two locations to serve our clients, Denver and Fort Collins

Rich Harris Urges Parents to Put Children First in Divorce Cases

Rich Harris commented this week on Tom Martino’s radio show on 630 KHOW on the impact of divorce on children.? Decades of studies show that the magnitude of the harm on children is commensurate with the level of conflict during the divorce.? Harris urged couples to be careful to keep their kids long-term interests at heart, and to be sure to work with attorneys who have settlement of cases as their central focus.  

The State of American Marriages

For many baby boomers with seemingly stable long-term marriages, the notion of separating or divorcing after surviving so many years together remains almost unthinkable. Yet those couples who do separate or divorce in the latter stages of life are doing so because the factors that once kept them together -- raising children, accumulating assets, planning for the future -- have become less important than the question of how they want to spend their time or whether they want to spend it with the same partner, says Dr. Terri Orbuch, also known as "The Love Doctor(R)." Do the Gores' mar …

Tips for Suviving Your Divorce

Tips for Surviving Your Divorce Keep to a routine. If you work, all the better. (Don't worry about being less productive than usual.) If you don't work, even if you have nowhere you have to go and nothing that must be done, make up a sequence of activities for that day and do each one of them. It helps to keep busy. Exercise. Jog, power walk, do yoga, walk your dog, spin, ride your bike, lift weights, or do anything that gets you moving. Physical activity counteracts the lethargy of depression, releases endorphins, and interrupts the downward spiral of depression. Breathe. In …

Reasons for "Late in Life Divorces"

After 40 years of marriage, those close to Al and Tipper Gore say that the couple simply grew apart. And experts say that late-marriage splits are more common than we think. "We tend to mistakenly believe that once people reach a certain point in marriage, they just stop splitting up," says Betsey Stevenson, an economist at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School who studies family trends. "But that's simply not true. In fact, Stevenson says, while marriages are more likely to fail in the first 10 years, once you get past that, "the percentage of those divorci …

Saving Your Marriage by Dr.Parrott

Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts: Seven Questions to Ask Before (and After) You Marry (Hardcover) ~ Leslie Parrott (Author), Les Parrott III

Father's Rights

The 16 family law attorneys at The Harris Law Firm focus exclusively on Colorado domestic law. Cases includes those associated with divorce, legal separation, the allocation of parental responsibility, post-decree modifications of parenting time and child support, step-parent adoptions, and orders of protection.  The Harris Law Firm also specializes in Colorado Father's Rights and represents men going through difficult divorce, child custody and child support matters. By being advocates of father's rights, we have found that the rulings of Colorado Courts are less gen …

Helping Your Kids Adjust to Divorce

When you and your spouse are going through a divorce, there are many ways in which you can be of assistance to your children. But most importantly, your positive attitude, ongoing patience, reassurance, and consistent willingness to listen to your children's concerns can minimize your kids anxiety as they learn to navigate the many changes they will experience during the divorce process. By providing consistency in their lives, you will be reminding them that they can count on you for stability, structure, and care. And by maintaining a positive working …

Congratulations to the Larimer County Sheriff's Office

      Stephen Vertucci, an associate attorney with The Harris Law Firm, is a member of the vocational services committee of the Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary Club. As the chairperson for the Rotary Emergency Services Award, this committee awards members of local fire departments, sheriff’s deputies and police officers who demonstrate outstanding public service in an emergency situation. Today, the bi-annual Rotary Emergency Services Award was presented to Larimer County Sheriff Alderden on behalf of four Larimer County Sheriff’s deputies and sergeant’s who …

Your Children Come First

Even though your entire family must deal with the challenges inherent in the divorce process, you can help your children cope with your pending divorce by taking care of yourself. Make sure that you have a healthy support system of friends, family and mental health professionals who will be there for you as you face the many changes ahead. When dealing with your children, begin by reassuring them with your own positive attitude, and seek to provide stability in their physical environment while attending to their emotional needs.  …

Your Children are not Responsible

Clearing up misunderstandings Many kids believe that they had something to do with the divorce, recalling times they argued with their parents, received poor grades, or got in trouble. You can help your kids let go of this misconception. Set the record straight. Repeat why you decided to get a divorce. Sometimes hearing the real reason for your decision can help. Be patient. Kids may seem to “get it” one day and be unsure the next. Treat your child’s confusion or misunderstandings with patience. Reassure. As often as you need to, remind your children that bo …

Facebook as Evidence

Colorado attorneys are saying that they are seeing more and more instances of Facebook being a new source of evidence in divorce cases. A recent study by the American Association of Matrimonial Lawyers, found Facebook is the leading source of information on marital infidelity, and indicated that 81% of the nation’s family law attorneys have stated seeing an increase in the number of cases using social networking as evidence.Since Colorado is a no-fault state, meaning evidence found on the internet regarding questionable behavior isn’t always admissible …

Commitment is the Key to a Successful Marriage

Regardless of how compatible the two of you are now, marital conflict during the course of your relationship is an inevitable fact of life. But not being in agreement on every issue is really not what is important to consider in your marriage because the vast majority of issues that couples argue about can be resolved. The real point to consider is whether or not your partner can stay in the relationship when your interaction becomes strained. Will he or she be willing to go to couples counseling to learn the skills necessary to deal with conflict, or will he or she simply distance themselve …

Modifying the Divorce Decree

The Harris Law Firm assists clients in post-decree modifications that include changes to maintenance agreements, the allocation of parental responsibilities, and issues regarding one party being in contempt of a court order. A modification of the divorce decree may be required when an individual's circumstances have changed since the divorce was finalized. Changes may include a change in relocation, income, living conditions, or a change regarding financial needs of the children involved. To set up a consultation with one of our attorneys regarding a post-decree modification, please call us …

"Plan for the Worst"

  During a recent appearance on the Tom Martino radio show, Harris Family Law partner Mike Cheroutes cautioned parents handling their own divorce or APR cases to be sure to "plan for the worst" when drafting parenting time agreements. Mr. Cheroutes pointed out that parenting plans are generally drafted at a time when parents are getting along (at least enough to agree on a parenting schedule), but are interpreted at a time when the parents are in conflict. Among other things, parenting plans should always state specifically what the parenting time will be in case of a dispu …

The Sworn Financial Statement (SFS) made easy (sort of)

    The Sworn Financial Statement (SFS) is an extremely important document in a dissolution of marriage proceeding. We cannot divide the marital estate until we know what the marital estate is, including your income, your assets and your debt. The rules require you to make full, honest and accurate disclosures, with severe penalties for failing to do so.   It looks harder than it is. In general, you have to take a financial snapshot of your life at that time. And nobody trusts you in divorce, which means that you have to provide supporting documentation for bills, e …

The Harris Law Firm Provides Advice on The Tom Martino Show

      During a recent appearance on the Tom Martino Troubleshooter program on 630 KHOW, Harris Law Firm principal, Rich Harris assisted a woman in desperate need of child support. In that case, it appeared that problems with a county social services worker were delaying her much-needed payments.? Rich offered tips on how best to deal with the caseworker to protect her rights.    

New York May Become a "No Fault" State

New York may be a front runner in many things, but family law is not one of them. Such was the general consensus of speakers at a New York State Senate hearing which focused mainly on divorce. The Senate expects to bring the bill out of committee on Monday.Speakers including lawyers, divorcees, judges and professors urged the Senate to pass legislation that would allow for no-fault divorce. Current law requires spouses to give the court a reason for the dissolution of their marriage, while a no-fault divorce law would not. New York is the only state that lacks no-fault divorce. Thi …

Tiger Would, but Elin Will Not

Tiger Woods' hopes for a reconciliation vanished when his estranged wife, Elin,returned to her home in Sweden. The move is seen as the beginning of the end of the Tiger Woods' divorce saga. Recently, Elin has been engaged in discussions with her lawyers to obtain a $500 to $600 million divorce settlement with world's most extraordinary golfer. If Elin is successful in obtaining a multi-million dollar settlement of this magnitude, it will become one of the largest divorce settlements in the history.  

Child abduction – Not returning the child at the end of parenting time.

If your child is spending time with their other parent in a state other than the one that issued the original order, it is wise to file the order in the new state. If the parent in the new state does not follow the original order and, for instance, refuses to return the child on time, you will already have a case in the new state. This will make it easier for you to ask for help from the new state to enforce your valid order. You will need a certified copy of the order along with a Petition to have the new state recognize the order. The new state does not have the power to change the order. It …

Relationship Coaching

Struggling Couples We're busy people today. We want our relationships to 'just work' dammit! What's all the fuss anyway? Why can't it just be easy? With a little help, it can be easier than you imagine. Relationships are only mysterious to the uninformed. If you are: Wondering how to manage yours, mine and ours... Caught in a web of control, jealousy and poor communication skills... Living with someone you thought you knew but really don't... Hurt, confused, and think that leaving is the only way out... Then give your relationship the gift of healing. You will make …

Putting the Children First

"The best interests of the children" is a phrase used in Colorado family law matters to determine the division of parental responsibilities. The Colorado courts consider many factors to define the best interests of the children involved, but perhaps the most important is if parents actions indicate that they place their children’s needs above their own. The parent who puts their children’s needs first is the parent who behaves in a civil manner at transfers so that their children don’t have to hear the animosity and bitterness that often exists between their pa …

There are No Perfect Parents

        There is no such thing as a perfect parent because parenting is much more of an art than it is a science.And if perfection were required, no one, not even the psychologists evaluating the needs of the children, or the judges deciding the case, would pass the test. However, in the context of divorce, we often see parents expecting and even demanding that the other parent achieve perfection. Some parents get upset because the children are playing sports, or riding four wheelers with their grandparents, or that they’re not fed a certain wa …

Modifying Child Support

        In this time of economic change, people are losing job and benefits. They wonder how they will pay their child support. Child support can be modified any time that there have been changes in the income or expenses of the parents (or the children) that would result in a 10% change in the child support amount. Child support can only be changed going forward from the date that the motion to modify child support is filed with the court. This means that it is important to file the Motion to Modify Child Support as soon as the change occurs. The only exception to this …

Co-Parenting Tips- How You Can Make it Work!

Obtaining a divorce does not end your parenting relationship with your former spouse, and co-parenting, or raising your children as a team when you are no longer a couple, can be challenging at best! Co-parents must learn to work together and rely on each other in order to successfully raise their kids. It is important to remember that regardless of what you two went through together and no matter what the reasons were that you decided to separate, it is important to your kids that you two can interact in an effective and peaceful manner for their benefit and well-being. Try the followin …

Post Decree Issues

Modification Whether you and your former spouse reached an agreement in your divorce , or the settlement was decided on by a judge, certain aspects of the judgment are subject to modification.  Child support and parenting time are often modifiable if you can show that there has been a substantial and continuous change in circumstances. Examples of such circumstances include losing your job, or conversely making substantially more money. Grounds to change  the orders regarding parenting time can include the changing needs of th …

Questions About Divorce?

The Harris Law Firm offers a free monthly seminar to answer your questions about the divorce process in the State of Colorado. Our upcoming "Questions About Divorce" seminar will be held on Wednesday, May 19th from 12 pm to 1 pm at the firm: 1125 17th Street, Suite 1820, Denver, CO 80202. To RSVP for this monthly event, please call 303 299 9484. Attorney and Mediator, Margaret Walker will preside.

Talk to a Couples Counselor First!

  Don’t end your marriage without seeking professional help first. A divorce attorney should be your last stop and a marriage counselor should be your first. Ask your friends, colleagues and associates to recommend a good therapist, and schedule some interviews. Choose a therapist who is biased in the direction of helping you find solutions to your marital problems You should feel comfortable and respected by your therapist and should feel that he or she understands how you feel. Know that most marital problems are solvable, so know that change is possible. Remember that there …

Helping Kids Survive Divorce

Top 3 Tips to Help Your Kids Survive Your Divorce: Establish an appropriate support system for the kids, through peers, extended family, school counselors and teachers. Each parent should get their own support system…parents should not rely on their children for emotional support at this time, it is too much of an emotional burden on the children. Keep stability in the children’s lives. Try and maintain consistent discipline between the 2 households and maintain daily routines.

Sports Legends Chris Evert and Greg Norman Divorce

Chris Evert and Greg Norman divorced in Key West last month just 15 months after they married. It was reported that Evert and Norman were granted a final judgment dissolving marriage and they agreed to abide by the pre-nuptial agreement they signed in June of 2008. Their divorce decree states that: “The bonds of marriage are dissolved because the marriage is irretrievably broken, and the parties are restored to the status of being single."

School Teacher Vanishes After Request for Settlement

A retired English school teacher vanished after asking for a divorce and an £800,000 settlement from her husband, a wealthy landowner in Gloucestershire.  The prosecution claims that 55-year-old Kate Prout was murdered by her estranged husband Adrian after several incidents of domestic violence. Mrs Prout, 55, has not been seen since November 5th 2007 when she vanished from her home leaving behind all of her clothing, her passport, and her credit cards. Among the items left behind after her disappearance was a diary saying that she was afraid of her husband and feared for her lif …

Family Law Judge Publishes "The Good Karma Divorce"

The dissolution of a marriage is one of the most painful changes a family can endure, but domestic relations judge Michele Lowrance says that it is possible for all concerned to have a positive divorce experience. In her recent publication, "The Good Karma Divorce," the judge offers helpful suggestions and strategies ensure that the process remains civil and professional. Ms. Lowrance recently shared some of her strategies, particularly those for helping your child through a divorce, on Good Morning America today. You can read an excerpt from "The G …

Attorney Carla Scarpone on Breakthrough Kent Denver Advancement Committee

Carla Scarpone, a family law attorney with The Harris Law Firm, is on the Advancement Committee for Breakthrough Kent Denver.  Breakthrough is a national non-profit organization with a local office housed at Kent that has been in existence for 15 years.  They have a dual mission: to provide under-resourced Denver Public Middle School students with an academically rigorous program to ensure that they graduate from high school and go onto college, and second to train high school and college aged students to become urban educators. Through her work on this committee, s …

French Statutes Bans Psychological Violence' in Marriages

 Later this year, France will become the first country in the world to ban 'psychological violence' within marriage. Insulting loved ones during domestic arguments could become a crime and partners who abuse their spouses in this way could end up with a criminal record under a new French law. French Prime Minister Francois Fillon said electronic tagging would be used on repeat offenders Mr Fillon said: 'It's an important step forward as the creation of this offence will allow us to deal with the most insidious situations - situations that leave no visible scars, but which leave v …

Should Divorce be Outlawed?

With an increasing number of unhappy married couples now experiencing financial difficulties due to the ongoing economic recession, many are unable to afford a family law attorney to assist them when filing for divorce. The result of being unrepresented by legal counsel means that many couples, who are handling their divorce cases pro se, are often terminating their marriage without being fully aware of their legal rights and options regarding the division of assets and parenting time. When someone in the U.S. is accused of a crime and they cannot afford an attorney, a lawyer is appoin …

Top 10 Legal Stories of the Decade

The last decade saw a number of landmark events that helped define the American justice system, and will impact us in the decades to come.  Below are just a few from the 2000’s that were particularly noteworthy:     1. Bush versus Gore:  On December 12, 2000, the U.S. Supreme Court issued it’s ruling which effectively decided the presidential election.  Never before had the American public seen such a close presidential election (the final disparity of votes in the decisive Florida count was a few hundred votes), and never before had the Supreme Cour …

Karl Rove, Former Advisor to Bush, Granted a Divorce

Republican political operative Karl Rove, a former key adviser in the administration of President George W. Bush, has been granted a divorce in Texas. Karl and Darby Rove were married for 24 years, and a family friend has reported that they came to the decision to part mutually and amicably. The Roves have stated that they intend to  remain friends, but hope that the press will respect their privacy during this sensitive transition. The Roves spent the Christmas holiday together with their son.

Will Charlie Sheen Divorce Again?

After spending most of Christmas day in an Aspen jail, could Charlie Sheen be headed for yet another divorce? Charlie was removed from their holiday rental when his wife, Brooke Sheen, called 911 saying that her husband was threatening her with a weapon. Police removed Mr. Sheen from the $7 million dollar house and he spent the next 8 hours in jail before posting bail in the amount of $8,500. Mr. Sheen has since left Colorado and returned to Los Angeles, while Mrs. Sheen remains in Aspen with their twins, Bob and Max. When the dust settles, it has been reported that Mr. and …

Nevada Governor and First Lady Prepare for Trial

Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbons would have liked to spend the rest of 2009 planning his re-election campaign, and dealing with the state's enormous budget deficit. Instead, he and Nevada's first lady, Dawn Gibbons, will be dealing with their pending divorce and preparing for trial in a Reno courtroom.  Jim recently evicted his wife of 23 years from the governor's mansion. The media will likely have a field day with the upcoming hearing when Mrs. Gibbons and her attorney resurrect some of the scandals that have followed Gibbons, including his alle …

Bringing Sean Goldman Home

The Brazilian Supreme court ruled yesterday that nine-year-old Sean Goldman currently residing in Brazil be returned to his father, David Goldman, a U.S. citizen. The decision in this custody case came just after another ruling that was issued days earlier ordering Sean Goldman to remain in Brazil. Sean Goldman's Brazilian grandmother and stepfather allegedly said they would not appeal the court's decision because they want Sean to suffer. Previously, the boy's Brazilian family insisted Sean's interests were not being considered, saying the trans …

Attorney Mike Cheroutes Handles International Child Abduction Cases

The Brazilian Supreme court ruled yesterday that nine-year-old Sean Goldman, who is currently residing in Brazil, be returned to his father, David Goldman, a U.S. citizen. The court's decision in this custody case came just after another ruling that was issued days earlier ordering Sean Goldman to remain in Brazil. Sean Goldman's Brazilian grandmother and stepfather allegedly said they would not appeal the court's decision because they did not want Sean to suffer any additional court battles. Previously, the boy's Brazilian family insisted S …

Judge Rules in the Best Interests of the Balloon Boy

The balloon boy’s supposed life-threatening journey in a runaway balloon had the attention of entire nation last October. But it will be years before his parents, the perpetrators of the hoax, can reap any monetary benefit financially from the stunt.  Richard Heene, an out of work actor hoping to secure a reality television show, was sentenced yesterday to a 90 day jail term, and his wife is to serve 20 days.  Both terms included four years’ probation during which they cannot earn any money related to the stunt. Mr. Heene apologized …

Free Family Law Seminars by the Denver Bar Association

Every third Tuesday of each month, the Denver Bar Association provides a Free Legal Seminar to address Family Law concerns. Jennie R. Wray and Carla Scarpone from The Harris Law Firm contribute to these Family Law Seminars every other month and address issues surrounding divorce, child custody, child support and legal separation.

Tiger Needs to Act Now in Order to Save His Marriage

Mrs. Tiger Woods, Elin,  is preparing for a bitter custody battle with her philandering husband over the couple's two young children, Sam and Charlie.  The former model has threatened to limit the golf star's parenting time to occasional visits only. Elin had been prepared to discuss a joint parenting plan with Woods, but she has had a change of heart because of her husband's refusal to see a sex addiction therapist. His denial of the problem and subsequent refusal to seek treatment has driven Elin, 29, to try to limit his involvement in t …

The Harris Law Firm Also Offers Mediation

The Harris Law Fim also offers alternative dispute resolution via mediation. Our mediators are: Margaret Walker, Kevin Massaro and Carrie Eckstein For mediation services at The Harris Law Firm: Please call us at 303 299 9484

Tiger and Elin Headed for Divorce

Mrs. Tiger Woods, Elin Nordegren is reportedly retaining one of the best divorce attorneys in the country to end her troubled marriage to Tiger Woods. She has consulted with Mr. Sorrell Trope, the dean of Hollywood’s most illustrious divorce lawyers. Nobody has more experience at tearing celebrity marriages asunder than Mr. Trope who began practicing family law in 1949. His  star clients span the generations from Cary Grant and Rod Steiger to Nicole Kidman, Nicolas Cage, Hugh Grant and Britney Spears. While Trope is no expert on the law in Florida …

Resolving Disputes Via Mediation

Mediation is a less stressful alternative to resolving your family issues in a Colorado courtroom. Although it is not unusal for family law issues to settle just before the hearing after significant delays, high drama, adversity, and enormous legal costs, the costs of litigation include monetary expenses, extensive time and energy, hard feelings, and the deterioration of communication and relationships. Also, these altercations may set the stage for future battles, and a vicious cycle of future conflicts begins. Keep in mind that while many conflict …

Is it too late for Tiger?

It has been reported that Tiger Woods' wife Elin Nordegren has moved out of their marital home, and has consulted with several divorce lawyers regarding a possible separation following the Christmas holidays.  Apparently Elin has been recently photographed without her wedding band that she has worn throughout the five-year marriage.  Tiger, however, now appears ready to fight for his family, and announced on Friday he was taking an indefinite break from golf in a bid to save his marriage and become a "better husband, father and person."

THe Harris Law Firm and the Bob Telmosse' Christmas Giveaway!

Imagine how you might react if a large crowd began to form in front of your house asking for help with food for the holiday!  This is exactly how the Bob Telmossé Christmas Giveaway began as a hoax.   In the spring of 1982, someone placed a holiday ad in the Gazette stating that Bob’s business was giving away free food.  When the crowd showed up, asking for food, Bob was unaware of the ad.  He asked the people to come back the next day and he personally purchased food for them.  As more and more people came, Bob enlisted the help of the media who …

New Years Resolution:Healing the Pain of Divorce

For people facing the pain of divorce or separation, the New Year is a good time to commit to the healing process. A marital breakup can be devastating because it will affect your emotions, self-esteem, children, finances and energy levels. With so much personal upheaval, most people going through divorce are unsure of how to find healing from the hurt, and hope for the future. Many experience a breakthrough in this process by attending recovery support groups. The groups are made up of people who understand the depth of emotions and the "Why?" inherent in the divorce process …

Are New York Divorce Laws Bonds of Marriage or Shackles?

The New York appellate court has recently ruled that "Social Abandonment" is not grounds for divorce, and thus New York remains the nation’s only state that does not adhere to the "No-Fault" statute. According to New York domestic law, the fact that a woman's husband has moved her out of the marital bedroom, ignores her, refuses to eat meals with her, attend family gatherings, or otherwise interact with her in any social manner may be an indication that they have "irreconcilable differences," but the New York court has ruled that these fa …

Divorce Rate Declines During the "Great Recession"

A positive side effect of the current economic downturn is that the US divorce rate declined during the first full year of what is being called The Great Recession.  According to Census Bureau data, the divorce rate fell 4 percent in 2008 to 16.9 divorces per 1,000 married women, . It had previously been on an upward swing, rising from 16.4 divorces per 1,000 married women in 2005 to 17.5 in 2007. But research shows that some couples may remain married only until economic conditions improve. If past trends are an indicator, some of the decline in the current divorce rate …

Your Job May be the Key to a Successful Marriage

Veterinarians, agricultural engineers, and those in the teaching profession are all less likely to divorce than entertainers, sports figures, bartenders and nurses, according to recent research that claims your choice of employment is key to a successful marriage. The top 10 jobs with the highest chance of divorce are: 1. Dancers and choreographers 43.05% 2. Bartenders 38.43% 3. Massage therapists 38.22% 4. Nurses and health care professionals 28.95% 5. Entertainers, performers, and sports figures 28.49% 6. Baggage porters and concierges 28.43 …

Veteran Singer/Songwriter Paul Anka Files for Divorce

Only hours after Anna Yaeger called the police to report an incident of domestic violence, her singer and songwriter husband, Paul Anka, filed for divorce. The pair, married only 18 months, became embroiled in a bitter argument outside their California home last week after Anka discovered that his wife had fired the family housekeeper. Yaeger, a personal trainer in L.A., called 911, telling officers she feared for her safety and claimed that her husband had pointed a loaded pistol at her on a previous occasion. No arrests were made, but Anka admitte …

Orders of Protection

Orders of protection can be obtained by individuals to prevent stalking, abuse, or the threat of abuse.  At the initial court appearance, the protected party may receive a temporary protective order. Approximately 14 days later, the protected party must attend a second hearing to make the temporation order of protection permanent.  The restrained party must attend in order to contest the order. Both parties must meet the court's procedural requirements and provide the burden of proof to either enforce, or contest a protection order.

Addressing Vacation Time with Your Kids

When establishing a Parenting Plan, divorcing spouses should remember to draft an agreement that addresses additional parenting time designated specifically for vacations. Parenting time for vacationing supersedes regular parenting time and the duration is very often for several weeks during the children's vacations from school.  This designated time may be scheduled by both parents, but all plans must be clearly communicated to avoid any issues. For example, the Parenting Plan may state that the parents will inform each other of their vacation plan …

Forensic Accountants May be Required to Uncover Assets

After filing for divorce in the State of Colorado, both spouses are required by law to disclose financial information to other party. The required data includes pay stubs, bank statements, retirement statement accounts, tax returns, credit card statements, etc.  The parties are also required to file sworn statements with the Court regarding monthly income and expenses.  In complex cases, especially those where businesses are involved, it may be necessary to hire a forensic account to trace and uncover assets if one of the parties suspects that the other is less th …

Englishman Charged with Murdering His Ex Wife

Brian Jones, former husband of Katrina Jones, will appear in court this morning charged with murder after his former wife was stabbed to death as she prepared to host her own divorce party. Police discovered the body of 34-year old mother-of-two last Friday night after being called to investigate a disturbance. Her former husband was charged with murder the following day. Ms. Jones was planning to hold her divorce party on Friday evening to celebrate the finality of the couple’s divorce, after about nine years of marriage. Floral tributes were placed outside the house …

Research Shows that Monogamy is not for the Birds

AUSTRALASIAN gannets, seabirds that were previously believed to mate for life, apparently have a "divorce rate" that is similar to humans. Researcher Steffi Ismar from Auckland University said that orthinologists once considered the birds to be strictly monogamous, but observations of a colony on New Zealand's Cape Kidnappers over a 3 year period revealed their rate of separation from one breeding season to the next is about 40 per cent.  Australasian gannets are large birds that breed on islands off Victoria, Tasmania and New Zealand, each pair producing …

Attorney with The Harris Law Firm Discusses Careers in Law

On November 17, 2009, Stephen Vertucci, a family law attorney with The Harris Law Firm, was a moderator for an ethics discussion with Northern Colorado high school students interested in careers involving law or law enforcement.  Stephen is a committee member of the Vocational Services Committee of the Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary Club.  His committee helped organize and coordinate a three day program where business leaders and Rotarians from Northern Colorado served as moderators of an ethics discussion where students were challenged with a series of difficult ethical dilemmas that …

Denver Therapist Jeannie Lee Discusses Conflict

Creatively Approaching Conflict - Tip   Turn Down the Impact (Notice that this is about the PROBLEM, not the other person.  If the two (or more) who are in conflict can do this together it will be all that much more effective.  Realizing that the two of you are on the same team, put the problem out in front of you and then proceed.) Imagine that the problem you are having has a sound. Maybe it's a siren.  Maybe it's clanging cymbals.  Maybe it's scratchy static. Maybe it's like a child screaming.  How loud is it?  If it's a particularly pesky proble …

Couples Take Vacations with the Marriage Counselor in Tow

In this year's disappointing and far from amusing Hollywood comedy Couples Retreat: Return to Eden, 4 married couples attempt to jump start their marriages by undergoing couples counseling on an island resort. At about the same time the movie was floundering at the boxoffice, a group of Indian travel agents began to market a new twist for a tourism, a divorce package designed to help clients salvage their relationships while vacationing on an island paradise. KV Tours & Travels in Mumbai, sent couples on the verge of div …

A $Billion Divorce - for the U.S. Government

The U.S. government may be the recipient of billions of dollars in court-ordered restitution under a new divorce decree between imprisoned former Cendant Corp. chairman Walter Forbes and Caren Forbes, his wife of 27 years. Bridgeport Superior Court Judge Howard Owens issued a ruling on Thursday that orders Forbes' ex-wife, to transfer ownership of the couple's homes in Connecticut and Wisconsin back to Mr. Forbes, plus half of the couple's jewelry and art collections.  The ruling allows the federal government and Cendant to attach liens to recover almost $3.3 billion to which the court says th …

Attorney Stephen Vertucci Promotes Literacy Program in Fort Collins

Stephen Vertucci, a family law attorney with The Harris Law Firm and a member of the Rotary READ Committee, recently traveled to St. Joseph’s Catholic School on November 4th in Fort Collins to distribute hard cover dictionaries to each third grade student.  These beautiful dictionaries were purchased entirely through efforts from the Fort Collins Breakfast Club’s annual peach sale fundraising drive.  Over 1,900 cases of western slope peaches were sold which purchased a hard cover dictionary for each third grade student in Fort Collins and the Poudre Valley School District …

It's Thanksgiving Again at The Denver Rescue Mission!

Each year the attorneys and staff at The Harris Law Firm donate funds to provide a hearty Thanksgiving banquet for the men, women and children at the Denver Rescue Mission. This holiday season, thanks to the generosity of the entire Denver community, over 500 men, women, and children will be served a hot thanksgiving meal. All guests will also receive hats, gloves, and scarves as well as the opportunity to call their families free of charge, a service provided by Quest.

English Divorces Can be Uncivilized, Actually

A new study out of London has indicated that a bitter divorce in England means that one in three children will permanently lose touch with a parent, usually the father. The research also showed that one in five parents said that their primary objective during separation was to make the experience “as unpleasant as possible” for their former spouse. As a result, 20% of the children involved said that they “felt used” by their parents, with 33% feeling isolated an