the practitioner’s guide to colorado domestic relations...

LIST OF CHAPTERS

VOLUME 1

Chapter 1 ETHICS IN FAMILY LAW

Linda Creagan, Esq.

Chapter 2 PREMARITAL AND MARITAL AGREEMENTS

Catherine H. Puttmann, Esq. Courtney R. McConomy, Esq.

Chapter 3 JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES IN THE DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE AND

GENERAL OVERVIEW OF DISSOLUTION PROCEEDINGS

Brenda L. Storey, Esq.

Chapter 4 PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Brenda L. Storey, Esq.

Chapter 5 RELOCATION ISSUES IN FAMILY LAW

Carolyn C. Witkus, Esq. Jon Eric Stuebner, Esq.

Chapter 6 PROPERTY OF THE MARRIAGE: VALUATION AND DISTRIBUTION

UPON DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE OR LEGAL SEPARATION

Ronald D. Litvak, Esq. Michael V. Switzer, Esq.

Chapter 7 HOW TO AVOID BEING A PERA-PATHETIC ADVISOR

Frederick C. Ebert, JD, Retired CPA

Chapter 8 SPOUSAL MAINTENANCE

Robin Lutz Beattie, Esq.

Chapter 9 CHILD SUPPORT

Sarah W. Quinlan, Esq.

Chapter 10 DIVORCE TAXATION

Brenda M. Clarke, CPA/ABV/CFF, CVA

Chapter 11 DETERMINING WHEN TRUSTS ARE PROPERTY FOR THE PURPOSE OF

EQUITABLE DIVISION

Suzanne Griffiths, Esq. Eliza R. Steinberg, Law Clerk

Chapter 12 RESERVED

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Chapter 13 SEPARATION AGREEMENTS

Ann Gushurst, Esq.

Chapter 14 THE MEDIATION PROCESS

Rose-Anne Landau, Esq.

Chapter 15 CASE MANAGEMENT PART I: COMMENCING THE ACTION

Jerremy M. Ramp, Esq.

Chapter 16 CASE MANAGEMENT PART II: DISCLOSURES, DISCOVERY,

SETTLEMENT, AND TRIAL

Jerremy M. Ramp, Esq.

Chapter 17 EXPERT WITNESSES

James S. Bailey, Esq.

Chapter 18 COURT-APPOINTED NEUTRALS

Julia M. Purchase, Esq.

Chapter 19 ALCOHOL, DRUGS, AND PARENTING

Hon. Carl S. McGuire III

Chapter 20 QDRO DRAFTING TIPS AND TRAPS

Frederick C. Ebert, J.D., CPA

VOLUME 2

Chapter 21 RESERVED

Chapter 22 APPELLATE ADVOCACY FOR FAMILY LAW PRACTITIONERS

Anne Whalen Gill, Esq.

Chapter 23 POST-DECREE ISSUES

Patricia A. Cooper, Esq.

Chapter 24 PRIMER ON COLLECTION LAW

John H. Barrett, Esq.

Chapter 25 DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE PROCEEDINGS AND

BANKRUPTCY CASES

Eric D. Wollard, Esq.

The Practitioner’s Guide to Colorado Domestic Relations Law

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Chapter 26 TORTS IN FAMILIES

Ronald W. Carlson, Esq. Courtney R. Edwards, Esq. Steven Charles O’Connor, Esq.

Chapter 27 CRIMINAL LAW AND PROCEDURE ISSUES RELATED TO FAMILY LAW

Abraham V Hutt, Esq.

Chapter 28 RESERVED

Chapter 29 RESERVED

Chapter 30 IMMIGRATION ISSUES IN FAMILY LAW

Kristin A. Knudson, Esq.

Chapter 31 THE UNIFORM CHILD ABDUCTION PREVENTION ACT

Hon. Angela R. Arkin

Chapter 32 SEEKING ENFORCEMENT OF FAMILY LAW ORDERS

THROUGH CONTEMPT PROCEEDINGS UNDER C.R.C.P. 107:

PERILS AND POTENTIAL PITFALLS

Riley W. Madden, Esq.

Chapter 33 FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS

C. Darin Jensen, Esq.

Chapter 34 GRANDPARENTS’ RIGHTS

Dianne H. Peterson, Esq.

Chapter 35 DEVELOPMENTS IN NON-MARRIED PARTNER LITIGATION

Kimberly R. Willoughby, Esq.

Chapter 36 DIVIDING MILITARY RETIREMENT BENEFITS IN DIVORCE

William L. Carew, J.D., LL.M., Law & Tax

Chapter 37 PUBLIC BENEFITS ISSUES IN FAMILY LAW CASES

Christina Ebner, Esq. Brett E. Landis, Esq.

Chapter 38 REPRESENTING THE DIMINISHED-CAPACITY OR MENTALLY ILL

CLIENT: COLO. RPC 1.14

Patrick R. Thiessen, Esq.

Chapter 39 DEATH AND DIVORCE

Kimberly R. Willoughby, Esq.

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Chapter 40 INTERSTATE FAMILY LAW JURISDICTION

Hon. Angela R. Arkin (Ret.)

Chapter 41 PARENTING AND THE MILITARY

Carl O. Graham, J.D.

Chapter 42 THE UNBUNDLED DOMESTIC RELATIONS PRACTICE

Todd A. Stahly, Esq. James R. Garts III, Esq.

Chapter 43 RESERVED

Chapter 44 REVISITING THE TAX PERILS OF UNALLOCATED FAMILY SUPPORT

Richard I. Zuber, Esq.

SUBJECT INDEX


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

VOLUME 1

Chapter 1 ETHICS IN FAMILY LAW

§ 1.1 INTRODUCTION

§ 1.2 BE COMPETENT AND DILIGENT, COMMUNICATE WITH

THE CLIENT, AND SERVE AS AN ADVISOR (COLO. RPC 1.1,

1.3, 1.4, AND 2.1)

§ 1.3 KEEP CLIENT INFORMATION CONFIDENTIAL (COLO. RPC 1.6)

§ 1.4 SUPERVISE NON-LAWYER ASSISTANTS (COLO. RPC 5.3)

§ 1.5 DO NOT ENGAGE IN CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

(COLO. RPC 1.7, 1.8)

§ 1.6 CONFLICTS IN COLLABORATIVE OR COOPERATIVE

REPRESENTATION (COLO. RPC 1.7)

§ 1.7 UNBUNDLED LEGAL REPRESENTATION (COLO. RPC 1.2(c))

§ 1.8 PROTECT THE CLIENT’S INTERESTS WHEN THE

REPRESENTATION ENDS (COLO. RPC 1.16(d))

§ 1.9 UPHOLD THE DUTY OF CANDOR (COLO. RPC 3.3, 3.4)

§ 1.10 TREAT THIRD PARTIES FAIRLY (COLO. RPC 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, AND 4.4)

§ 1.11 CHARGE REASONABLE FEES AND FEES PAID BY THIRD

PARTIES (COLO. RPC 1.5, 1.7, 1.8, AND 5.4)

§ 1.12 SECURITY INTEREST (COLO. RPC 1.8)

§ 1.13 CHARGING LIEN (COLO. RPC 1.5)

§ 1.14 SERVING AS A GUARDIAN AD LITEM, LEGALREPRESENTATIVE FOR THE CHILD, OR CHILD AND FAMILY

INVESTIGATOR (COLO. RPC 8.4)

§ 1.15 ETHICAL ISSUES INVOLVED IN REPRESENTING AN ADULT

WITH DIMINISHED CAPACITY (COLO. RPC 1.14, 1.16)

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§ 1.16 ETHICS IN THE AGE OF TECHNOLOGY (COLO. RPC 1.6, 1.9,

1.18, 7.1, AND 7.4)

§ 1.17 CONCLUSION

Chapter 2 PREMARITAL AND MARITAL AGREEMENTS

§ 2.1 INTRODUCTION

§ 2.2 PRENUPTIAL AND POSTNUPTIAL AGREEMENTS

PRIOR TO 1986

§ 2.3 COLORADO MARITAL AGREEMENT ACT (CMAA) — 1986 TO

JUNE 30, 2014

§ 2.3.1—Colorado Marital Agreement Act Versus Uniform Premarital

Agreement Act

§ 2.3.2—Statutory Formalities

§ 2.3.3—Effective Date

§ 2.3.4—Permissible Agreements Under CMAA

§ 2.3.5—Impermissible Agreements Under CMAA

§ 2.3.6—Enforcement

§ 2.3.7—Miscellaneous Provisions

§ 2.3.8—Estate and Probate Considerations

§ 2.3.9—Choice of Law

§ 2.4 UNIFORM PREMARITAL AND MARITAL AGREEMENTS ACT

(UPMAA) — EFFECTIVE DATE JULY 1, 2014

§ 2.4.1—Major Differences Between the CMAA and the UPMAA

§ 2.4.2—Scope of the UPMAA

§ 2.4.3—Statutory Formalities


§ 2.4.5—Unenforceable Terms

§ 2.4.6—Miscellaneous Provisions

§ 2.5 CONCLUSION


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Chapter 3 JURISDICTIONAL ISSUES IN THE DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE AND

GENERAL OVERVIEW OF DISSOLUTION PROCEEDINGS

§ 3.1 INTRODUCTION

§ 3.2 SUBJECT MATTER JURISDICTION

§ 3.2.1—Domicile

§ 3.2.2—Waiting Period

§ 3.3 PERSONAL JURISDICTION

§ 3.3.1—Physical Presence in State or Voluntary Appearance

§ 3.3.2—Long-Arm Statute

§ 3.3.3—Publication

§ 3.4 COMMENCEMENT OF PROCEEDINGS

§ 3.4.1—How Commenced

§ 3.4.2—Venue

§ 3.5 PLEADINGS

§ 3.5.1—Petition

§ 3.5.2—Response/Counter-Petition

§ 3.5.3—Joinder of Parties

§ 3.5.4—Joinder of Claims

§ 3.6 DIVISION OF PROPERTY

§ 3.7 MAINTENANCE

§ 3.8 PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND SUPPORT OF CHILDREN

§ 3.9 DECREE OF DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 3A—Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

Exhibit 3B—Case Information Sheet

Exhibit 3C—Summons

Exhibit 3D—Decree of Dissolution of Marriage

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Chapter 4 PARENTAL RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

§ 4.1 JURISDICTION IN MATTERS INVOLVING CHILDREN

§ 4.1.1—Types of Jurisdiction

§ 4.1.2—Subject Matter Jurisdiction

§ 4.1.3—Personal Jurisdiction

§ 4.1.4—Military Personnel

§ 4.1.5—Venue

§ 4.1.6—Interstate Conflicts

§ 4.1.7—Indian Child Welfare Act

§ 4.2 BEGINNING THE ACTION

§ 4.2.1—Uniform Dissolution of Marriage Act

§ 4.2.2—Children’s Code

§ 4.2.3—Resolution of Jurisdictional Conflicts

§ 4.3 CUSTODY/ALLOCATION OF PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

§ 4.3.1—Allocation of Parental Responsibilities

§ 4.3.2—Historical Theories

§ 4.4 ALLOCATION OF DECISION-MAKING RESPONSIBILITIES

§ 4.4.1—Best Interests Standard

§ 4.4.2—Statutory Factors

§ 4.4.3—Juvenile Cases

§ 4.5 DETERMINATION OF PARENTING TIME

§ 4.5.1—Best Interests Standard

§ 4.5.2—Statutory Factors

§ 4.5.3—Resources

§ 4.5.4—Evidentiary Issues

§ 4.5.5—Experts

§ 4.5.6—Parenting Time Terms

§ 4.5.7—Transportation

§ 4.5.8—Out-of-State Parenting Time

§ 4.5.9—Supervised Parenting Time

§ 4.5.10—Therapeutic Parenting Time

§ 4.5.11—Denial of Parenting Time

§ 4.5.12—Third-Party Visitation

§ 4.5.13—Disputes Concerning Parenting Time


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§ 4.6 PARENTING PLANS

§ 4.6.1—Residence

§ 4.6.2—Decision-Making

§ 4.6.3—Educational Issues

§ 4.6.4—Religious Training and Observance

§ 4.6.5—Medical, Dental, and Mental Health Care

§ 4.6.6—Finances for the Child’s Needs

§ 4.6.7—Dispute Resolution

§ 4.6.8—Other Matters

§ 4.7 RESOURCES FOR CHILDREN’S ISSUES

§ 4.7.1—Parenting Seminars

§ 4.7.2—Shared Parenting Support Program©

§ 4.7.3—Social Services Programs

§ 4.8 PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES EVALUATORS

§ 4.8.1—Purpose

§ 4.8.2—Statutory Authority

§ 4.8.3—Choosing an Evaluator

§ 4.8.4—County Evaluations

§ 4.8.5—Evaluation Costs

§ 4.8.6—Preparation for Evaluation

§ 4.8.7—Evaluation Process

§ 4.8.8—Suggested Practices and Procedures

§ 4.8.9—Confidentiality

§ 4.8.10—Challenging the Evaluation

§ 4.8.11—Supplemental Evaluations

§ 4.8.12—Other Evaluation Reports

§ 4.9 EVIDENCE AND WITNESSES

§ 4.9.1—Physical Evidence

§ 4.9.2—Testimonial Evidence

§ 4.10 TEMPORARY ORDERS AND ORDERS IN EMERGENCY

SITUATIONS

§ 4.10.1—Statutory Authority

§ 4.10.2—Automatic Temporary Injunction

§ 4.10.3—Temporary Parental Responsibilities Orders

§ 4.10.4—Effect of Temporary Orders on Permanent Orders

§ 4.10.5—Orders in Emergency Situations

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§ 4.11 MODIFICATION OF THE ALLOCATION OF PARENTAL

RESPONSIBILITIES

§ 4.11.1—Jurisdiction for Modification

§ 4.11.2—Modification of Temporary Orders

§ 4.11.3—Modification of Parenting Time

§ 4.11.4—Modification of Decision-Making Responsibility

§ 4.11.5—Removal/Relocation

§ 4.11.6—Modification by Juvenile Courts

§ 4.11.7—Modification of Foreign Orders

§ 4.12 CONCLUSION

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 4A—Form 35.4 — Pattern Interrogatories (Domestic Relations)

Exhibit 4B—Section 6 — Non-Pattern Interrogatories (Child Left Alone in

Client’s Care)

Exhibit 4C—Section 6 — Non-Pattern Interrogatories (Drug Use and

Driving Violations Under the Influence)

Exhibit 4D—Motion for Court to Interview Children Pursuant to C.R.S.

§ 14-10-126(1)

Chapter 5 RELOCATION ISSUES IN FAMILY LAW

§ 5.1 OVERVIEW

§ 5.2 RELOCATION AT THE TIME OF THE INITIAL DECREE

§ 5.2.1—Legal Standard

§ 5.2.2—Practical Considerations

§ 5.3 POST-DECREE RELOCATION

§ 5.3.1—Legal Standard

§ 5.3.2—Practical Considerations

§ 5.4 BEYOND THE LAW — ANALYZING RELOCATIONS FROM A

MENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVE

§ 5.4.1—Attachment Theory

§ 5.4.2—Children and Conflict

§ 5.4.3—Relocation Risk Assessment Theory

§ 5.5 CONCLUSION


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Chapter 6 PROPERTY OF THE MARRIAGE: VALUATION AND DISTRIBUTION

UPON DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE OR LEGAL SEPARATION

§ 6.1 INTRODUCTION

§ 6.2 JURISDICTION

§ 6.3 WHAT IS PROPERTY?

§ 6.4 WHAT IS MARITAL PROPERTY?

§ 6.5 WHAT IS SEPARATE PROPERTY?

§ 6.6 THREE-STEP PROCESS IN DISTRIBUTION OF PROPERTY

§ 6.6.1—Step 1: Classification of Marital or Separate Property

§ 6.6.2—Step 2: Valuation of Property

§ 6.6.3—Step 3: Equitable Division of Marital Property

§ 6.7 THE FAMILY RESIDENCE AND REAL ESTATE

§ 6.8 MOTOR VEHICLES

§ 6.9 FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS

§ 6.10 FURNITURE AND HOUSEHOLD GOODS

§ 6.11 DIVISION OF DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLANS

§ 6.11.1—Basic Terms and Concepts

§ 6.11.2—Examples of Deferred Compensation Plans

§ 6.12 VALUATION AND DISTRIBUTION OF PENSIONS

§ 6.12.1—Methods of Division

§ 6.12.2—Discovery Needed for Valuation

§ 6.12.3—Steps to Valuation

§ 6.12.4—Determining the Marital Share

§ 6.12.5—Military Pensions

§ 6.13 USE OF A QUALIFIED DOMESTIC RELATIONS ORDER

§ 6.13.1— Survivor Benefits

§ 6.13.2—Tax Effects

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§ 6.14 STOCK OPTIONS AND RESTRICTED STOCK UNITS

§ 6.15 VALUING A BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL GOODWILL

§ 6.15.1—Basic Approaches to Business Valuations

§ 6.15.2—Marketability Discounts

§ 6.15.3—Valuations Considering Goodwill

§ 6.16 MISCELLANEOUS PROPERTY RIGHTS

§ 6.16.1—Frequent Flyer Benefits

§ 6.16.2—Contract Rights

§ 6.16.3—Income Earned but Not Payable Until After Divorce

§ 6.16.4—Personal Injury Recoveries

§ 6.16.5—Accrued Vacation and Sick Leave Time

§ 6.16.6—Trusts

§ 6.16.7—Disability Payments

§ 6.17 CONCLUSION

Chapter 7 HOW TO AVOID BEING A PERA-PATHETIC ADVISOR

§ 7.1 CONTRIBUTION BALANCE IS NOT THE VALUE OF THE

PERA BENEFIT

§ 7.2 SETTLEMENT NEGOTIATIONS

§ 7.2.1—No Immediate Lump Sum Distribution Available

§ 7.2.2—Include DRO Payment Options in the Settlement

§ 7.2.3—No Survivor Benefit in the DRO

§ 7.2.4—Use Pre-retirement Co-beneficiary Designation to Create

Survivor Benefit

§ 7.3 NINETY-DAY-FROM-DATE-OF-DECREE FILING DEADLINE

FOR DRO

§ 7.3.1—Consider Using Placeholder DRO to Buy Additional Time

§ 7.3.2—Correctly Notarized Signatures Required for Both Parties

§ 7.4 IMPACT OF DISABILITY

§ 7.5 SPECIFY BENEFITS BEGIN AT PARTICIPANT’S AGE 65

§ 7.5.1—PERA Actuarially Adjusts Participant’s Final Benefit for Prior

Payments to Former Spouse


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§ 7.6 GAIN OR LOSS ON PERA’S DEFINED CONTRIBUTION PLANS

§ 7.7 CONCLUSION

Chapter 8 SPOUSAL MAINTENANCE

§ 8.1 INTRODUCTION AND DEFINITIONS

§ 8.1.1—General Introduction

§ 8.1.2—Statutory Overhaul in 2013 and 2017 Tax Law

§ 8.1.3—Spousal Maintenance Defined

§ 8.1.4—Temporary Maintenance

§ 8.1.5—Permanent Maintenance

§ 8.1.6—Maintenance in Gross

§ 8.1.7—Incremental Decreases over Time

§ 8.1.8—Request for Maintenance in Petition

§ 8.2 FINDINGS REQUIRED

§ 8.2.1—Overview of Necessary Findings

§ 8.3 INITIAL FINDINGS

§ 8.3.1—Income of Each Party

§ 8.3.2—Apportionment of Marital Property

§ 8.3.3—Financial Resources

§ 8.3.4—Reasonable Need

§ 8.4 TERM AND AMOUNT OF MAINTENANCE

§ 8.4.1—Term of Maintenance

§ 8.4.2—Amount of Maintenance

§ 8.4.3—Financial Resources of Recipient

§ 8.4.4—Financial Resources of Payor

§ 8.4.5—Parties’ Lifestyle

§ 8.4.6—Distribution of Marital Property

§ 8.4.7—Employment and Employability

§ 8.4.8—Past Income

§ 8.4.9—Duration of Marriage

§ 8.4.10—Term and Amount of Temporary Maintenance

§ 8.4.11—Age and Health of Parties

§ 8.4.12—Contributions to the Marriage

§ 8.4.13—Nominal Award

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§ 8.5 THRESHOLD TEST

§ 8.6 CONTRACTUAL MAINTENANCE PROVISIONS

§ 8.6.1—Non-modifiable Maintenance

§ 8.6.2—Waiver

§ 8.7 TAX EFFECTS OF MAINTENANCE

§ 8.7.1—Deductible or Non-deductible

§ 8.7.2—Maintenance Recapture

§ 8.7.3—Unallocated Family Support

§ 8.8 TERMINATION OF MAINTENANCE

§ 8.8.1—Death of Obligor

§ 8.8.2—Security for Maintenance

§ 8.8.3—Remarriage

§ 8.8.4—Cohabitation

§ 8.9 MODIFICATION OF MAINTENANCE

§ 8.9.1—Changed Circumstances

§ 8.9.2—Burden of Proof

§ 8.9.3—Reservation of Jurisdiction

§ 8.9.4—Effective Date of Modification

§ 8.9.5—When the Request for Modification Should Be Made

§ 8.9.6—Retirement

EXHIBIT

Exhibit 8A—Outline of Colorado Maintenance Cases

Chapter 9 CHILD SUPPORT

§ 9.1 CHILD SUPPORT GENERALLY

§ 9.1.1—Available Legal Proceedings

§ 9.1.2—Child Support Guidelines

§ 9.1.3—Duration of Child Support

§ 9.2 ESTABLISHING CHILD SUPPORT

§ 9.2.1—Initiating a Support Request

§ 9.2.2—Determining Income


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§ 9.3 PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES: PARENTING TIME AND

PHYSICAL CARE

§ 9.3.1—Shared Physical Care

§ 9.4 CHILD CARE

§ 9.4.1—Net Child Care Costs

§ 9.4.2—Reason Costs Are Incurred

§ 9.4.3—Limitation on Child Care Costs

§ 9.5 HEALTH CARE EXPENDITURES FOR CHILDREN

§ 9.5.1—Health Insurance Premiums

§ 9.5.2—Extraordinary Medical Expenses

§ 9.6 OTHER EXTRAORDINARY EXPENSES

§ 9.6.1—Educational Expenses

§ 9.6.2—Travel Expenses

§ 9.7 INCOME OF THE CHILD

§ 9.7.1—Disability/Retirement Benefits for Children

§ 9.7.2—Social Security Benefits

§ 9.8 CALCULATING CHILD SUPPORT

§ 9.8.1—Worksheet A

§ 9.8.2—Worksheet B

§ 9.8.3—Beyond the Guidelines

§ 9.8.4—Deviation from the Guidelines

§ 9.9 CHILD SUPPORT RELATED ORDERS

§ 9.9.1—Obtaining/Maintaining Health Insurance

§ 9.9.2—Dependency Exemptions

§ 9.9.3—Exchange of Financial Information

§ 9.9.4—Prenatal Care and Costs of Confinement

§ 9.9.5—Life Insurance

§ 9.10 POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION SUPPORT

§ 9.10.1—Definition

§ 9.10.2—Establishing a Postsecondary Education Support Order

§ 9.10.3—Duration of Postsecondary Education Support

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§ 9.11 ENFORCEMENT OF SUPPORT ORDERS

§ 9.11.1—Support Orders

§ 9.11.2—Child Support Enforcement Agencies

§ 9.11.3—Parent Locator Service

§ 9.11.4—UIFSA

§ 9.11.5—Automatic Deduction for Health Insurance

§ 9.11.6—Qualified Medical Child Support Orders (QMCSOs)

§ 9.12 MODIFICATION OF CHILD SUPPORT ORDERS

§ 9.12.1—Basis for Modification

§ 9.12.2—Effective Date

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 9A—Support Order

Exhibit 9B—Notice to Employer to Deduct for Health Insurance

Exhibit 9C—Notice to Insurance Provider of Court-Ordered Health/Dental

Insurance Coverage

Exhibit 9D—Medical Child Support Order

Chapter 10 DIVORCE TAXATION

§ 10.1 TAXATION OF PROPERTY SETTLEMENTS

§ 10.2 MARITAL RESIDENCE

§ 10.2.1—I.R.C. § 121 Requirements

§ 10.2.2—Effect of Filing Status on the Exclusion

§ 10.2.3—Property Transferred to, or from, a Spouse or Former Spouse

§ 10.2.4—Depreciation and Business Use

§ 10.3 ALIMONY OR SEPARATE MAINTENANCE PAYMENTS DEFINED

§ 10.3.1—Basic Definition

§ 10.3.2—Recapture of Prior Year’s Alimony Deduction

§ 10.4 CHILD SUPPORT PAYMENTS

§ 10.4.1—I.R.C. § 71

§ 10.4.2—Six-Month Rule

§ 10.4.3—Multiple Reduction Rule

§ 10.5 DEPENDENCY EXEMPTION FOR CHILD OF DIVORCED OR

SEPARATED PARENTS


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§ 10.6 CHILD AND DEPENDENT CARE CREDIT

§ 10.7 EARNED INCOME CREDIT

§ 10.8 HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD STATUS

§ 10.9 MEDICAL EXPENSES

§ 10.10 CHILD TAX CREDIT

§ 10.10.1—Phase-Out of Credit (2017)

§ 10.10.2—Qualifying Child

§ 10.11 JOINT VERSUS SEPARATE TAX RETURNS

§ 10.12 INNOCENT SPOUSE RELIEF

§ 10.12.1—Time for Election

§ 10.12.2—Rules to Prevent the Inappropriate Use of the Election

§ 10.13 HEALTH CARE LAW CONSIDERATIONS

§ 10.14 RETIREMENT PLANS AND QUALIFIED DOMESTIC RELATIONS

ORDERS

§ 10.14.1—Rollover Distributions

§ 10.14.2—Transfers of IRAs

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 10A—IRS Form 8332, Release/Revocation of Release of Claim to

Exemption for Child by Custodial Parent

Exhibit 10B—IRS Form 8857, Request for Innocent Spouse Relief

Exhibit 10C—IRS Form 8822, Change of Address

Exhibit 10D—2018 Tax Tables

Chapter 11 DETERMINING WHEN TRUSTS ARE PROPERTY FOR THE

PURPOSE OF EQUITABLE DIVISION

§ 11.1 CHARACTERIZING AN INTEREST IN A TRUST

§ 11.2 DISCRETIONARY INTERESTS IN THE TRUST CORPUS

§ 11.3 THE ROSENBLUM OPINION

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§ 11.4 THE JONES OPINION

§ 11.5 CASE LAW AFTER JONES

§ 11.5.1—The Pooley Opinion § 11.5.2—The Guinn Opinion § 11.5.3—The Delano Opinion § 11.5.4—The Balanson Opinion § 11.5.5—The Dale Opinion § 11.5.6—Updated Opinions and Legislation

§ 11.6 MANDATORY INCOME INTERESTS WITHOUT VESTED

REMAINDERS

§ 11.7 VESTED REMAINDER INTERESTS

§ 11.7.1—Vested Remainder Interests Subject to Defeasance

§ 11.8 NONCUMULATIVE DISCRETIONARY RIGHT OF WITHDRAWAL

§ 11.8.1—Arguments that a 5 & 5 Power Constitutes Property

§ 11.8.2—Arguments that a 5 & 5 Power Does Not Constitute Property

§ 11.9 WHEN THE BENEFICIARY IS A TRUSTEE

§ 11.10 GRATs AND QPERTs

§ 11.10.1—Arguments that GRATs and QPERTs Become Property

when Terminated

§ 11.10.2—Arguments that GRATs and QPERTs Become Property

when Created

§ 11.10.3—The Milias Case

§ 11.11 CONCLUSION

Chapter 12 RESERVED

Chapter 13 SEPARATION AGREEMENTS

§ 13.1 INTRODUCTION

§ 13.2 INITIAL CONSIDERATIONS

§ 13.2.1—Same-Sex Marriage


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§ 13.3 RECITALS

§ 13.4 PARENTING PLAN

§ 13.5 CHILD SUPPORT

§ 13.6 MAINTENANCE

§ 13.7 ALLOCATION OF ASSETS

§ 13.7.1—Separate Property

§ 13.7.2—Real Property

§ 13.7.3—Household Goods, Furnishings, and Personalty

§ 13.7.4—Automobiles, Boats, Motorcycles, Etc.

§ 13.7.5—Bank and Investment Accounts

§ 13.7.6—Retirement Assets

§ 13.7.7—Cash Payments

§ 13.7.8—Disclosure and Undisclosed Assets

§ 13.7.9—Restricted Assets and Stock Option Plans

§ 13.7.10—Business Assets

§ 13.7.11—Miscellaneous Assets

§ 13.8 DISPOSITION OF DEBTS AND LIABILITIES

§ 13.9 TAXES

§ 13.9.1—Prior Filed Joint Returns

§ 13.9.2—Allocation of Liability or Refund on Returns Not Yet Filed

§ 13.9.3—Dependency Exemptions and Head of Household

§ 13.9.4—Capital Gains and Recapture Liabilities

§ 13.10 PROFESSIONAL FEES AND COSTS

§ 13.11 ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

§ 13.12 MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

§ 13.12.1—Satisfaction and Waiver

§ 13.12.2—Incorporation into Decree

§ 13.12.3—Execution of Documents, Titles, and Deeds

§ 13.12.4—Binding Effect

§ 13.12.5—Governing Law

§ 13.12.6—Entire Agreement

§ 13.12.7—Waiver of Breach or Default

§ 13.12.8—Modification

§ 13.12.9—Indemnity for Failure to Perform

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§ 13.12.10—Transfer of Property

§ 13.12.11—Interpretation

§ 13.12.12—When Agreement Takes Effect

§ 13.12.13—Severability

§ 13.12.14—Certification

§ 13.13 CONCLUSION

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 13A—Sample Parenting Plan

Exhibit 13B—Sample Medical/Educational Information Release Form

Chapter 14 THE MEDIATION PROCESS

§ 14.1 MEDIATION IN GENERAL

§ 14.1.1—Mediation’s Utility in the Family Law Arena

§ 14.1.2—Creation of the Office of Dispute Resolution

§ 14.2 AUTHORITY TO REFER CASES TO MEDIATION

§ 14.2.1—Court Authority to Refer Cases to Mediation

§ 14.2.2—Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure

§ 14.2.3—Colorado Rules of Professional Conduct

§ 14.3 CONFIDENTIALITY

§ 14.4 SELECTING A MEDIATOR

§ 14.4.1—Mediator Philosophies

§ 14.5 SCREENING CASES FOR MEDIATION

§ 14.6 MEDIATION FORMATS

§ 14.6.1—“Shuttle Diplomacy”

§ 14.6.2—Face-to-Face Mediation

§ 14.6.3—Number and Length of Sessions

§ 14.7 RETAINING THE MEDIATOR

§ 14.8 PREPARING THE CLIENTS FOR MEDIATION

§ 14.8.1—Managing Client Expectations


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§ 14.9 PREPARING THE CONFIDENTIAL SETTLEMENT STATEMENT

§ 14.10 MEDIATION STRUCTURE

§ 14.10.1—Mediation Introduction

§ 14.10.2—Developing a Narrative and the Importance of Story-Telling

§ 14.10.3—Negotiations in Mediation

§ 14.10.4—Avoiding Impasse in Mediation

§ 14.11 MEDIATED SETTLEMENT AGREEMENTS

§ 14.11.1—Enforcement of Mediated Settlement Agreements Generally

§ 14.11.2—Enforcement of Mediated Settlement Agreements in the Family

Law Context

§ 14.12 OTHER DISPUTE RESOLUTION METHODS

§ 14.12.1—Collaborative Law

§ 14.12.2—Early Neutral Evaluation

§ 14.13 CONCLUSION

§ 14.14 BIBLIOGRAPHY

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 14A—Sample Confidential Settlement Statement

Exhibit 14B—Sample Memorandum of Understanding

Chapter 15 CASE MANAGEMENT PART I: COMMENCING THE ACTION

§ 15.1 INITIAL CASE ASSESSMENT

§ 15.1.1—General Considerations

§ 15.1.2—Initial Interview

§ 15.1.3—Practice Tips

§ 15.2 DEFINING THE CASE

§ 15.2.1—Common Law Marriage

§ 15.2.2—No Formal or Common Law Marriage

§ 15.2.3—Formal Marriage: Options Other than Formal Dissolution

§ 15.2.4—Civil Unions

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§ 15.3 PROCEDURAL/TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

§ 15.3.1—Rules

§ 15.3.2—Jurisdiction and Venue

§ 15.4 COMMENCEMENT OF AN ACTION

§ 15.4.1—Summons

§ 15.4.2—Petition

§ 15.4.3—Automatic Temporary Injunction

§ 15.4.4—Required Notice of Involvement with Department of

Social Services

§ 15.4.5—Required Notice of Prior Restraining Orders

§ 15.4.6—Process

§ 15.4.7—Response

§ 15.4.8—Filing with the Court

§ 15.4.9—Summary Checklist of Initial Case Procedures

§ 15.5 COURT-FACILITATED MANAGEMENT OF DOMESTIC

RELATIONS CASES

§ 15.5.1—Active Case Management

§ 15.5.2—Scheduling and Case Management for New Filings

§ 15.5.3—Motions

§ 15.6 MOTIONS PRACTICE

§ 15.6.1—Preliminary Considerations

§ 15.6.2—Making the Determination to File a Motion

§ 15.6.3—Filing a Motion

§ 15.6.4—Types of Motions

§ 15.6.5—Responses and Replies to Motions

§ 15.6.6—Checklist for Motions

§ 15.6.7—Hearings

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 15A—Pleading Caption

Exhibit 15B—Parental Responsibilities/Support Caption

Exhibit 15C—Entry of Appearance

Exhibit 15D—Substitution of Counsel

Exhibit 15E—Certificate of Service

Exhibit 15F—Motion and Order to File without Payment of Filing Fee

Exhibit 15G—Notice of Hearing


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Chapter 16 CASE MANAGEMENT PART II: DISCLOSURES, DISCOVERY,

SETTLEMENT, AND TRIAL

§ 16.1 PRELIMINARY CONSIDERATIONS

§ 16.1.1—Identifying Issues

§ 16.1.2—Facts

§ 16.1.3—Application of the Law to the Facts

§ 16.1.4—Developing a Theme

§ 16.1.5—Obtaining Facts

§ 16.1.6—Informal Exchanges of Information

§ 16.1.7—Formal Methods to Obtain Information

§ 16.2 MANDATORY DISCLOSURES — C.R.C.P. 16.2

§ 16.2.1—Sworn Financial Statements

§ 16.2.2—Mandatory Disclosures of Documents

§ 16.2.3—Authorization for Financial Disclosure

§ 16.3 METHODS TO OBTAIN ADDITIONAL INFORMATION —

DISCOVERY

§ 16.3.1—Depositions

§ 16.3.2—Interrogatories

§ 16.3.3—Requests for Production of Documents

§ 16.3.4—Additional Discovery

§ 16.3.5—Protection from Discovery Abuses

§ 16.3.6—Failure to Make Disclosures or Cooperate in Discovery

§ 16.4 EXPERTS

§ 16.4.1—Jointly Selected or Court-Appointed Experts

§ 16.4.2—Non-joint Experts

§ 16.4.3—Expert Reports

§ 16.4.4—Deposition of Experts

§ 16.5 SETTLEMENT WITHOUT LITIGATION

§ 16.5.1—Alternative Dispute Resolution

§ 16.5.2—Stipulations and Separation Agreements

§ 16.5.3—Final Documents

§ 16.6 NOTICE OF SETTLEMENT OR CHANGE IN ANTICIPATED

LENGTH OF HEARING OR TRIAL

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§ 16.7 TRIAL MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATE

§ 16.8 TRIAL PREPARATION

§ 16.8.1—Preliminary Considerations

§ 16.8.2—Issues and Outcomes

§ 16.8.3—Facts and Law

§ 16.8.4—Selection of Evidence

§ 16.8.5—Planning the Presentation of Evidence

§ 16.8.6—Types of Evidence

§ 16.8.7—Organizing the Trial Presentation

§ 16.9 POST-TRIAL MATTERS

§ 16.9.1—Preparation of Orders

§ 16.9.2—Post-trial Relief


§ 16.10 CLOSING A CASE

§ 16.10.1—Checklist

§ 16.10.2—Withdrawal as Attorney of Record

Chapter 17 EXPERT WITNESSES

§ 17.1 DO YOU WANT AN EXPERT?

§ 17.2 TYPES OF EXPERTS

§ 17.2.1—Consulting Experts

§ 17.2.2—Testimonial Experts

§ 17.3 OPINION TESTIMONY FROM A LAY PERSON

§ 17.4 RULES OF EVIDENCE

§ 17.4.1—CRE 702: The Expert Opinion

§ 17.4.2—CRE 703: The Basis of the Expert’s Opinion

§ 17.4.3—The Standard for Admission of Expert Testimony

§ 17.5 COLORADO RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE

§ 17.5.1—Types of Expert Disclosure

§ 17.5.2—Disclosure: More Requirements of C.R.C.P. 16.2

§ 17.5.3—Failure to Disclose

§ 17.5.4—Use of Rebuttal Expert Witnesses


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§ 17.6 THE ATTORNEY AS EXPERT WITNESS

§ 17.7 C.R.S. § 14-10-116.5 — CHILD AND FAMILY INVESTIGATOR AS

EXPERT WITNESS

§ 17.7.1—Areas for Examination of the Attorney/CFI

§ 17.7.2—Attorney/CFIs and Ethical Issues

§ 17.7.3—The CFI Report

§ 17.8 MENTAL HEALTH PROFESSIONAL AS EXPERT WITNESS

§ 17.8.1—Psychiatrist

§ 17.8.2—Psychologist

§ 17.8.3—Licensed Social Worker

§ 17.8.4—Licensed Clinical Social Worker

§ 17.8.5—Marriage and Family Therapist

§ 17.8.6—Licensed Professional Counselor

§ 17.8.7—Psychotherapist

§ 17.8.8—Considerations


§ 17.9.1—Income of the Parents

§ 17.9.2—Gifts

§ 17.9.3—Royalties

§ 17.9.4—Windfalls

§ 17.9.5—Underemployment

§ 17.10 MAINTENANCE

§ 17.11 ATTORNEY FEES AND COSTS

§ 17.11.1—Reasonableness and Necessity

§ 17.11.2—Attorney Fees in Domestic Cases

§ 17.12 REAL ESTATE VALUATION

§ 17.12.1—The Income Method

§ 17.12.2—The Comparable Sales Method

§ 17.12.3—The Cost Approach

§ 17.13 BUSINESS VALUATION

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Chapter 18 COURT-APPOINTED NEUTRALS

§ 18.1 ADVOCATES FOR THE CHILDREN

§ 18.1.1—Colorado’s Unique Approach to the Guardian ad Litem Role § 18.1.2—The GAL, CLR, and CFI in Colorado

§ 18.1.3—Statutory References to the GAL/CLR/CFI

§ 18.1.4—Case Law Summary on the Role of the GAL/CLR/CFI

§ 18.1.5—The GAL/CLR/CFI in High-Conflict Parental Responsibilities

Cases

§ 18.1.6—Difficult Types of Cases

§ 18.1.7—Some Thoughts for Attorneys Working with a GAL/CLR/CFI

§ 18.2 RESOURCES FOR INTERVENTION

§ 18.2.1—Parenting Coordinator

§ 18.2.2—Domestic Relations Decision-Maker

§ 18.2.3—C.R.S. § 14-10-128.5 Arbitrator

§ 18.2.4—Other Jurisdictions

§ 18.3 CONCLUSION

§ 18.4 BIBLIOGRAPHY/SUGGESTED READING

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 18A—GAL/CLR Sample Information Sheet

Exhibit 18B—Parent Self-Report

Exhibit 18C—Sample Interview Questions of Parents, Children, and

Collaterals

Exhibit 18D—Release of Information for GAL/CLR/CFI

Exhibit 18E—Chief Justice Directive 04-06

Exhibit 18F—Chief Justice Directive 04-08 Amended

Exhibit 18G—Chief Justice Directive 08-01

Exhibit 18H—Mandatory Disclosure

Exhibit 18I—Order Appointing CFI


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Chapter 19 ALCOHOL, DRUGS, AND PARENTING

§ 19.1 SUBSTANCE USE

§ 19.1.1—Commonly Used Substances

§ 19.1.2—Colorado Marijuana Constitutional Provisions and Case Law

§ 19.2 DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING

§ 19.2.1—Motion for Drug or Alcohol Testing

§ 19.2.2—Testing for Prescription Drug or Marijuana Use

§ 19.2.3—Failure to Comply with Court-Ordered Drug or Alcohol Testing

§ 19.2.4—Admissibility of Drug or Alcohol Testing Results

§ 19.3 RESTRICTIONS ON PARENTING TIME DUE TO SUBSTANCE

ABUSE

§ 19.3.1—Standards for Initial Allocation of Parenting Time

§ 19.3.2—Standards for Restriction of Parenting Time

§ 19.3.3—Standards for Termination of Parenting Time

§ 19.4 CONCLUSION

Chapter 20 QDRO DRAFTING TIPS AND TRAPS

§ 20.1 DIVIDING POTENTIALLY VOLATILE RETIREMENT ASSETS

IN DIVORCE

§ 20.1.1—Overview of Pension Plans

§ 20.1.2—Pension Plans Change with the Times

§ 20.1.3—Practical Considerations for Dividing Retirement Assets

in Divorce

§ 20.2 QDRO DRAFTING ISSUES

§ 20.2.1—QDRO Overview

§ 20.2.2—Timing and Execution

§ 20.2.3—Dangers of Relying on Plan Administrators

§ 20.2.4—Practical Drafting Suggestions

§ 20.2.5—Elements of Well-Drafted QDROs

§ 20.2.6—Overview of Client Rights

§ 20.3 CONCLUSION

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VOLUME 2

Chapter 21 RESERVED

Chapter 22 APPELLATE ADVOCACY FOR FAMILY LAW PRACTITIONERS

§ 22.1 TYPES OF APPEALS AND JURISDICTION

§ 22.2 TIME TO APPEAL AND POST-TRIAL MOTIONS

§ 22.3 PRESERVING ISSUES FOR APPEAL

§ 22.4 NOTICE OF APPEAL AND DESIGNATION OF RECORD

§ 22.5 MOTIONS PRACTICE IN THE COURT OF APPEALS

§ 22.6 STANDARDS OF REVIEW AND BRIEFING THE APPEAL

§ 22.7 PETITIONS FOR REHEARING

§ 22.8 PETITIONS FOR CERTIORARI

§ 22.9 EFFECT OF REMANDS AND ISSUANCE OF MANDATE

§ 22.10 CONCLUSION

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 22A—Appellate Checklist and Timeline

Exhibit 22B—Certificate of Compliance (Form 6); Amicus Certificate of

Compliance (Form 6A)

Exhibit 22C—Policy on Citation to the Record

Chapter 23 POST-DECREE ISSUES

§ 23.1 IMPLEMENTATION OF THE TERMS OF THE DECREE

§ 23.1.1—Transfers

§ 23.1.2—Obligations

§ 23.2 PROPERTY DIVISION


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§ 23.3 MAINTENANCE


§ 23.5 PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES

§ 23.6 ENFORCEMENT

§ 23.6.1—Enforcement of Support and Property Distribution Payments

§ 23.6.2—Enforcement of Parental Responsibilities

§ 23.7 CONCLUSION

Chapter 24 PRIMER ON COLLECTION LAW

§ 24.1 FEE AGREEMENT ESSENTIALS

§ 24.2 GETTING THE JUDGMENT

§ 24.2.1—Obtaining the Judgment in the Pending Action Through an

Attorney’s Lien

§ 24.2.2—Obtaining the Judgment in an Independent Action

§ 24.2.3—The Judgment

§ 24.3 POST-JUDGMENT EXECUTION

§ 24.3.1—Obtaining and Recording a Transcript of Judgment

§ 24.3.2—Discovery Regarding the Debtor’s Assets

§ 24.3.3—Pre-judgment Attachments

§ 24.3.4—Garnishment

§ 24.3.5—Foreclosure of a Judgment Lien and Spurious Liens

§ 24.3.6—Life of a Judgment

EXHIBITS

Excerpts from the Rules of Professional Conduct

Exhibit 24A—Colorado Rules of Professional Conduct 1.4 and 1.5

Fee Agreements

Exhibit 24B—Sample Hourly Fee Agreement

Exhibit 24C—Sample Contingent Fee Agreement

Exhibit 24D—Sample Disclosure Statement for Fee Agreements

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Sample Pleadings Regarding Attorney’s Lien

Exhibit 24E—Notice of Attorney’s Lien

Exhibit 24F—Sample Motion to Determine Validity of Attorney’s

Lien and for Judgment

Exhibit 24G—Sample Affidavit of Attorney Fees and Costs

Exhibit 24H—Sample Order and Judgment Regarding Attorney’s

Lien

Summons and Complaint

Exhibit 24I—County Court Summons

Exhibit 24J—County Court Complaint Under Simplified Civil

Procedure

Exhibit 24K—County Court Answer Under Simplified Civil

Procedure

Exhibit 24L—District Court Civil Case Cover Sheet

Exhibit 24M—District Court Civil Summons

Exhibit 24N—Sample District Court Complaint

Motions For Judgment

Exhibit 24O—Sample Verified Motion for Entry of Default Judgment

Exhibit 24P—Sample Affidavit of Attorney Fees

Exhibit 24Q—Sample Default Judgment

Post-Judgment Forms

Exhibit 24R—Subpoena

Exhibit 24S—Pattern Interrogatories (Individual)

Exhibit 24T—Pattern Interrogatories (Business)

Exhibit 24U—Motion and Affidavit (Contempt)

Exhibit 24V—Order to Issue Citation (Contempt)

Exhibit 24W—Citation (Contempt)

Garnishment Forms

Exhibit 24X—Writ of Continuing Garnishment

Exhibit 24Y—Calculation of Exempt Earnings

Exhibit 24Z—Objection to Calculation of Exempt Earnings

Exhibit 24AA—Writ of Garnishment with Notice of Exemption

Exhibit 24BB—Claim of Exemption

Exhibit 24CC—Writ of Garnishment for Support

Exhibit 24DD—Writ of Garnishment (Other than Natural Person)

Exhibit 24EE—Writ of Garnishment in Aid of Writ of Attachment

Exhibit 24FF—Notice of Levy

Exhibit 24GG—Notice, Application, and Release of Funds

Revival of Judgment

Exhibit 24HH—Motion for Revival of Judgment

Exhibit 24II—Notice to Show Cause for Revival of Judgment

Exhibit 24JJ—Order for Revival of Judgment


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Chapter 25 DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE PROCEEDINGS AND

BANKRUPTCY CASES


§ 25.2 FOUR TYPES OF BANKRUPTCY

§ 25.2.1—Chapter 7

§ 25.2.2—Chapter 11

§ 25.2.3—Chapter 12

§ 25.2.4—Chapter 13

§ 25.3 COMMENCING A BANKRUPTCY CASE

§ 25.3.1—Do Spouses Have to File Bankruptcy Jointly?

§ 25.4 THE AUTOMATIC STAY

§ 25.5 DISCHARGE AND DISCHARGEABILITY

§ 25.5.1—Discharge Generally

§ 25.5.2—Non-dischargeability of Domestic Support Obligations

§ 25.5.3—Dischargeability of Non-support Obligations

§ 25.5.4—Co-debtor Issues

§ 25.6 DEALING WITH THE CHAPTER 13 DEBTOR AND

CHAPTER 13 TRUSTEE

§ 25.6.1—The Debtor and the Plan

§ 25.6.2—The Chapter 13 Trustee

§ 25.7 TREATMENT OF MARITAL CLAIMS — PARTICIPATING IN

DISTRIBUTION OF THE ESTATE

§ 25.7.1—Claim Priority

§ 25.8 TREATMENT OF MARITAL PROPERTY IN

BANKRUPTCY CASES

§ 25.9 PROTECTING THE MARITAL INTEREST

§ 25.9.1—Real Property

§ 25.9.2—Bank Accounts

§ 25.9.3—Motor Vehicles

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§ 25.10 FRAUDULENT CONVEYANCES AND PREFERENCES:

AGREEMENTS TO PROTECT NON-DEBTOR SPOUSE

§ 25.10.1—Fraudulent Transfers

§ 25.10.2—Preferential Transfers

§ 25.11 THE CLIENT AS DEBTOR — DECIDING WHEN TO FILE

§ 25.11.1—Generally, Divorce Then Bankruptcy

§ 25.11.2—Joint Bankruptcy Then Divorce

§ 25.11.3—Joint Planning for Optimal Results

§ 25.12 DRAFTING AND OTHER TIPS — ANTICIPATING A FUTURE

BANKRUPTCY

§ 25.13 FINAL PRACTICE POINTERS

Chapter 26 TORTS IN FAMILIES

§ 26.1 MARITAL TORTS

§ 26.1.1—Historical Background

§ 26.1.2—The Modern Approach

§ 26.1.3—Interspousal Immunity

§ 26.1.4—Mandatory Joinder

§ 26.1.5—Res Judicata and Collateral Estoppel § 26.1.6—Fraud

§ 26.2 PARENT-CHILD IMMUNITY

§ 26.2.1—Historical Background

§ 26.2.2—Current Status of Parent-Child Immunity in Colorado

§ 26.3 CONCLUSION

Chapter 27 CRIMINAL LAW AND PROCEDURE ISSUES RELATED TO FAMILY LAW


§ 27.2 PRACTICAL CHALLENGES OF CRIMINAL LAW IN FAMILY

LAW CASES

§ 27.2.1—Confusion Caused by Simultaneous Proceedings

§ 27.2.2—Constitutional Issues

§ 27.2.3—Ethical Issues


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§ 27.3 ADVICE TO CLIENT CHARGED WITH A CRIME

§ 27.3.1—Remain Silent

§ 27.3.2—Polygraph Examinations

§ 27.3.3—Determine Whether a “No-Contact” Order Has Issued

§ 27.3.4—Ensure that the Client Understands the Mandatory Protection

Order

§ 27.3.5—When Immediate Action Is Required

§ 27.4 SUBSTANTIVE CRIMES OCCURRING IN FAMILY

RELATIONSHIPS

§ 27.4.1—Classification of Crimes

§ 27.4.2—Domestic Violence

§ 27.4.3—The Impact of Domestic Violence in the Family Law Case

§ 27.4.4—Child Abuse

§ 27.4.5—The Impact of Child Abuse in Family Law Cases

§ 27.4.6—Sexual Offenses

§ 27.4.7—The Impact of Sexual Offenses in Family Law Cases

§ 27.4.8—Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs

§ 27.4.9—Prosecution of Juveniles

§ 27.4.10—Parental Responsibilities in Juvenile Cases

§ 27.4.11—Financial Responsibilities in Juvenile Cases

§ 27.5 COLLATERAL CONSEQUENCES OF CRIMINAL CHARGES AND/

OR CONVICTIONS

§ 27.5.1—Employment

§ 27.5.2—Adoption

§ 27.5.3—Driving Privileges and Travel Restrictions

§ 27.5.4—Collateral Consequences for Sex Offenses

§ 27.5.5—Registries

§ 27.5.6—Immigration

§ 27.6 CONCLUSION

Chapter 28 RESERVED

Chapter 29 RESERVED

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Chapter 30 IMMIGRATION ISSUES IN FAMILY LAW

§ 30.1 BASIC CONCEPTS AND VOCABULARY

§ 30.1.1—After the INS: DHS, USCIS, ICE, CBP, and EOIR

§ 30.1.2—Nationality, Citizenship, and Classification of “Foreign

Nationals”

§ 30.1.3—Obtaining U.S. Citizenship: Birth, Transmission, and

Administrative Naturalization

§ 30.1.4—Visas, Including Visa Waiver, Status, and (Un)Lawful Presence

§ 30.1.5—Inadmissibility, Deportation, Removal, and Relief

§ 30.2 THE IMMIGRANT SELECTION SYSTEM FOR FAMILY-BASED

APPLICANTS

§ 30.2.1—Immediate Relatives

§ 30.2.2—Preference Immigrants

§ 30.2.3—Completing the Permanent Residence Process: Adjustment of

Status and Consular Processing of Immigrant Visas

§ 30.2.4—Burden of Proof and Validity of Petitions

§ 30.3 WITHDRAWAL, REVOCATION, AND RECLASSIFICATION OF

PETITIONS

§ 30.3.1—K-1 and K-2 Fiancé(e) Visas

§ 30.4 CHILDREN

§ 30.4.1—Children in Wedlock and out of Wedlock

§ 30.4.2—Legitimated Children

§ 30.4.3—Step-children

§ 30.4.4—Adopted Children

§ 30.4.5—Orphans

§ 30.4.6—Special Immigrant Juveniles

§ 30.5 MARRIAGE

§ 30.5.1—Legal Validity of Marriage

§ 30.5.2—Bona Fides of Relationship

§ 30.5.3—Implications of Antenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

§ 30.5.4—Viability of the Marriage

§ 30.5.5—Annulment

§ 30.5.6—Conditional Residence and Removal of Conditions


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§ 30.6 IMPACT OF DISSOLUTION ON FOREIGN NATIONAL SPOUSE

§ 30.6.1—Non-Immigrant Visa Holders

§ 30.6.2—Foreign National with Pending Permanent Residence:

Employment-Based/Non-Family Petitions

§ 30.6.3—Foreign National with Pending Permanent Residence:

Marriage-Based Petitions

§ 30.6.4—Foreign National Present Under Grant of Conditional Residence

§ 30.6.5—Foreign National Granted Full Legal Permanent Residence

(No Conditions)

§ 30.7 SOLUTIONS FOR BATTERED IMMIGRANTS

§ 30.7.1—Establishing Eligibility

§ 30.7.2—Qualifying Abuse, Standard of Evidence, and Good Moral

Character

§ 30.7.3—Obtaining Status Through VAWA

§ 30.7.4—U Non-Immigrant Status as a Crime Victim

§ 30.7.5—Confidentiality Under § 384 for VAWA Applicants

§ 30.8 AFFIDAVIT OF SUPPORT

§ 30.8.1—Requirements

EXHIBITS

Exhibit 30A—Sample I-94

Exhibit 30B—Visa Bulletin

Chapter 31 THE UNIFORM CHILD ABDUCTION PREVENTION ACT


§ 31.2 PREFATORY NOTE AND OFFICIAL COMMENTS

§ 31.3 DEFINITIONS

§ 31.4 COOPERATION AND COMMUNICATION AMONG COURTS

§ 31.5 ACTIONS FOR ABDUCTION PREVENTION MEASURES

§ 31.6 JURISDICTION

§ 31.7 CONTENTS OF THE PETITION

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§ 31.8 FACTORS TO DETERMINE THE RISK OF ABDUCTION

§ 31.9 PROVISIONS AND MEASURES TO PREVENT ABDUCTION

§ 31.9.1—Warrant to Take Physical Custody of the Child

§ 31.10 DURATION OF AN ABDUCTION PREVENTION ORDER/

UNIFORMITY OF APPLICATIONS AND CONSTRUCTION/

RELATION TO ELECTRONIC SIGNATURES IN GLOBAL AND

NATIONAL COMMERCE ACT

§ 31.11 CONCLUSION

Chapter 32 SEEKING ENFORCEMENT OF FAMILY LAW ORDERS

THROUGH CONTEMPT PROCEEDINGS UNDER C.R.C.P. 107:

PERILS AND POTENTIAL PITFALLS


§ 32.2 CONTEMPT PROCEEDINGS — DEFINITION AND SOURCE OF

POWER

§ 32.3 DIRECT VERSUS INDIRECT CONTEMPT

§ 32.4 INDIRECT CONTEMPT

§ 32.5 PUNITIVE VERSUS REMEDIAL SANCTIONS

§ 32.6 PUNITIVE SANCTIONS

§ 32.6.1—Elements and Standard of Proof (Punitive)

§ 32.6.2—Challenges of Punitive Contempt

§ 32.7 REMEDIAL SANCTIONS

§ 32.7.1—Elements and Standard of Proof (Remedial)

§ 32.7.2—Challenges of Remedial Contempt

§ 32.8 COLLECTING MAINTENANCE AND CHILD SUPPORT

ARREARS: A NEW ROLE FOR QDROs

§ 32.9 LACHES: DO NOT DELAY IN COLLECTING UNPAID CHILD

SUPPORT

§ 32.10 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION


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Chapter 33 FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS

§ 33.1 THE MARRIAGE RELATIONSHIP

§ 33.1.1—Application and Formalities

§ 33.1.2—Marriage License

§ 33.1.3—Solemnization and Registration

§ 33.1.4—Prohibited Marriages

§ 33.1.5—Putative Spouse

§ 33.1.6—Common Law Marriage

§ 33.1.7—Rights of Married Women

§ 33.1.8—Spousal Privilege and Confidential Communications

§ 33.1.9—Declaration of Invalidity of a Marriage

§ 33.2 RELINQUISHMENT OF PARENTAL RIGHTS

§ 33.2.1—Procedure

§ 33.2.2—Relinquishment Order

§ 33.2.3—Denial of Relinquishment

§ 33.2.4—Appointment of a Guardian ad Litem § 33.2.5—Interviewing the Child

§ 33.2.6—Court Experts

§ 33.2.7—Final Order of Relinquishment

§ 33.2.8—Effect of a Final Order of Relinquishment

§ 33.2.9—Relinquishment and Termination of Parental Rights

§ 33.2.10—Revocation of a Relinquishment Petition

§ 33.2.11—Minors as Parents

§ 33.2.12—Termination of Parental Rights When Contested

§ 33.2.13—Affirmative Defense to Termination of Parental Rights

§ 33.2.14—Custody Determinations if Parental Rights Are Not Terminated

or Relinquished

§ 33.2.15—Dealing with Unknown Parents

§ 33.2.16—Notice to Child Support Enforcement Unit

§ 33.2.17—Role of Adoption Agencies

§ 33.3 ADOPTION OF A CHILD

§ 33.3.1—Who May Be Adopted

§ 33.3.2—Who May Adopt

§ 33.3.3—Availability for Adoption

§ 33.3.4—Venue

§ 33.3.5—Adoption Decree of a Foreign Country Approved

§ 33.3.6—Placement for Purposes of Adoption

§ 33.3.7—Consideration of Racial Background

§ 33.3.8—Written Consent and Report

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§ 33.3.9—Petition for Adoption

§ 33.3.10—In re C.C.R.S. § 33.3.11—Written Reports for Adoption

§ 33.3.12—Adoption Hearing

§ 33.3.13—Legal Effects of a Final Decree of Adoption

§ 33.3.14—Limitations on Annulment of Adoption

§ 33.3.15—Compensation for Placing a Child Prohibited

§ 33.3.16—Same-Sex Partner Adoptions

§ 33.3.17—GALs in Adoption Proceedings

§ 33.3.18—Failed Adoptions

§ 33.3.19—Confidential Intermediaries in Adoptions

§ 33.3.20—Adult Adoption

§ 33.3.21—Step-Parent Adoption

§ 33.4 UNIFORM PARENTAGE ACT

§ 33.4.1—Establishing Mother-Child Relationship

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