Basalt, CO Divorce Law Firms & Lawyers

If she is working and you are not, you will have a good change of getting temporary maintenance. You have to ask for a temporary maintenance hearing at the initial status conference. You can ask as part of temporary maintenance for money to pay for an attorney for you, as the courts want the parties to be on an equal footing (i.e., make it a fair fight). If the two of you make less than $76,000 per year, there is a presumptive formula the court uses to come up with a temporary maintenance amount, otherwise it is based on what you need to meet your reasonable needs.  The court actually can order her to pay all of your attorney fees at the end of the case. You definitely should speak with an attorney, especially if she has one, as it's harder for men to get maintenance because of reverse sexism, but it's definitely doable. Hope this helps. You can reach Dave Rich at (303) 886-2516 or dave@flatironlegal.com. Dave Rich is an attorney licensed in Colorado. Responding to your questions does not create an attorney-client relationship between us. You should speak with an attorney to whom you have provided all the facts in your case, before you take steps that may impact your legal rights. I am not obligated to answer subsequent emails or phone calls unless you have hired me. I wish you the best of luck with your situation.

You have a couple options to enforce the Permanent Orders. You can obtain a Judgment against him for that amount plus interest and garnish his bank accounts and wages. The second option is a contempt citation against him for non payment. You can request attorney fees on both options. Your question does not indicate if the 5 years has passed yet.

You still can get divorced. If she does not show, it is called a default proceeding. If you want a division of property or a ruling on maintenance (even her waiver of maintenance), you need to offer a separation agreement to the court. You might want an attorney to at least help prepare you for the hearing - we are available by the hour just to help prep people for court if you would like assistance. I hope this helps.