Pro Se Divorce, Mediation, and the Colorado Judicial Court Forms

YES! It has become much more common. The Colorado Courts have simplified the process for Pro Se couples by designing cour-approved forms to help manage the process. When successful, couples save a tremendous amount of money on legal expenses, retain a greater degree of control in their family, and are generally more satisfied with the result of their agreements. Restructuring the family can be dreadful or successful; it just depends on how the divorce proceedings are handled.

Begin by making a list of the most important things that you agree upon as a couple before you split. Note your own priorities on a privately kept "wish list" in addition.

Do a cost/benefit analysis of legal and professional expenses: determine how complicated your family situation is in the area of dividing the debts & assets, parenting time, and potential maintenance/alimony. Can you begin the divorce process on your own (Pro Se) or with a mediator initially? Many situations are relatively straight forward and may simply require the proper paperwork and solid agreements between the spouses to complete the divorce process. If you get stuck, a professional mediator may be tremendously beneficial in helping to address the particular sticking point between you to facilitate moving forward. If unable to come to full agreement after mediation, interview several attorneys to find the best fit. Professionals have very different strengths and weaknesses, and each will handle the case based on their own philosophy and experiences. Ask plenty of questions prior to hiring a mediator or attorney!

Consider the following:

• The Colorado Judicial Website offers all of the court approved forms and a self-help section on their website. This is a great starting place.
• The Friendly Divorce Guidebook for Colorado is a cornerstone reference manual used by mediators and attorneys alike. Most libraries have it in the reference section for use at the library only, or you can order one from Amazon or your local bookstore.
• Speak with a skilled divorce mediator about your situation. Many couples successfully complete all of their agreements in mediation. CoMA provides a choice of mediators resumes to choose from when filing with the forum, allowing couples to choose a professional with the background and experience that makes the most sense for their situation.
• Seek legal review of your agreements before filing them with the court. This review may be your only legal expense. However some couples begin Pro Se or with mediation and realize that there is good reason to hire an attorney. Mediators may also encourage proceeding with attorneys at subsequent sessions when there are indications that the couple needs this type of advocacy.
• Situations that are more complicated in nature may require professional involvement for specific issues, such as family-owned businesses, or the divisions of retirement assets. Seasoned mediators and attorneys generally have referrals for CPA’s certified in business valuation or Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) Experts. Gaining expert help when needed proves the old saying – an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.