When the Biological Father Won’t Consent: Proving Abandonment

As a contested adoption lawyer Colorado families call when the biological father refuses to sign, we hear this question constantly: what happens when he won’t consent, or disappeared from the child’s life years ago? Colorado does not require his signature in every case. When a parent goes a full year without paying support or without… Read More.

Emergency Custody Motion in Colorado: The Imminent Danger Threshold

Emergency Custody Motion in Colorado: The Imminent Danger Threshold

Quick Answer: What Qualifies for an Emergency Custody Motion in Colorado? You can file an emergency custody motion in Colorado if your child faces imminent physical or emotional danger while in the care of the other parent due to severe substance abuse, domestic violence, or reckless behavior. When a child may be in danger, a… Read More.

The CFI Investigation: Preparing for a Stranger To Judge Your Parenting

The CFI Investigation: Preparing for a Stranger To Judge Your Parenting

Quick Answer: What Does a Child and Family Investigator in Colorado Do? A Child and Family Investigator acts as a neutral court appointee who evaluates your family dynamics to help a Colorado judge make decisions for your child’s future. They interview both parents, observe home environments, and issue a formal recommendation based on the child’s… Read More.

Allocation of Parental Responsibilities vs Custody: Speaking Colorado Courts’ Language

Allocation of Parental Responsibilities vs Custody: Speaking Colorado Courts’ Language

Quick Answer: What Is Allocation of Parental Responsibilities in Colorado? Allocation of parental responsibilities in Colorado is the state’s official legal term for child custody, dividing a parent’s duties into two distinct categories: parenting time and decision-making authority. Colorado no longer uses “custody” in most family law cases. Instead, courts use the term “allocation of… Read More.

The 49-Day Deadline: Missing Your Window to Appeal in Colorado

The 49-Day Deadline: Missing Your Window to Appeal in Colorado

Quick Answer: How Long Do I Have To Appeal a Family Court Decision in Colorado? In most family law cases, the notice of appeal deadline in Colorado is 49 days from the date of the final written and signed order. Missing this deadline is a jurisdictional bar, meaning you will likely lose your right to… Read More.

Magistrate vs Judge: The “Petition for Review” Trap

Magistrate vs Judge: The “Petition for Review” Trap

Quick Answer: Can I Appeal a Magistrate’s Order in Colorado? You can appeal a magistrate’s order, but not directly to the Colorado Court of Appeals. The process of appealing a magistrate’s order in Colorado has a mandatory first step: you must file a Petition for Review with a district court judge. If a magistrate issued… Read More.

The Role of Review Counsel: Why You Need a Lawyer Even in Amicable Mediation

The Role of Review Counsel: Why You Need a Lawyer Even in Amicable Mediation

  • April 27, 2026
  • Price Family Law
  • Divorce

Choosing mediation can be a smart way to keep a Colorado divorce more cooperative, private, and controlled. But even in an amicable case, one problem remains: the mediator cannot protect either side’s legal interests or tell you whether a proposed agreement is fair. Mediators remain neutral and don’t give legal advice to either party. That… Read More.

Litigation vs Mediation Cost: A Real-World Breakdown for Denver Families

Litigation vs Mediation Cost: A Real-World Breakdown for Denver Families

  • April 27, 2026
  • Price Family Law
  • Divorce

For many Denver families, one of the first major questions in a divorce is cost. The process you choose can affect not only how much you spend, but also how predictable those expenses are from the start. Litigation often becomes more expensive as the case moves through motions, hearings, preparation, and court appearances. Mediation usually… Read More.

Is Mediation Mandatory in Denver? Navigating Colorado Rule 16.2

Is Mediation Mandatory in Denver? Navigating Colorado Rule 16.2

  • April 27, 2026
  • Price Family Law
  • Divorce

In most Denver divorce and family law cases, mediation is mandatory. Courts in the 2nd Judicial District typically require mediation before a case can move toward trial. The goal is to give both sides a chance to resolve issues like parenting time, decision-making, and property division without going to court. This usually happens as part… Read More.

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    Attorney Trista Price

    Trista McElhaney Price is a founding partner at Price Family Law, LLC. She specializes in high-asset divorce cases and legal matters involving complex business and financial issues as well as complex custody matters involving domestic violence, substance abuse issues, and mental health issues. Read Full Bio.