When is Fault a Consideration in Colorado Divorce?
Many clients seek our services when they discover their partner has engaged in an extra-marital affair. Unfortunately, we must explain that whether the spouse engaged in an affair is irrelevant. That is, Colorado does not care if your spouse cheated on you. Fault is not an issue that can be raised under Colorado law, although the actions of your spouse could potentially be taken into consideration in rare circumstances such as the following:
- When a party has depleted marital assets to their sole benefit, such as in the furtherance of an addiction or extra-marital affair, the Court may take that into consideration in the ultimate division of assets
- When one partner disposes of marital assets in furtherance of their addiction (i.e. gambling, sex, drugs), for use in their affair (i.e. hotel rooms, jewelry, trips, etc.)
- When one partner incurs significant debt without the knowledge of the other party and the debt did not benefit the marriage.
- When marital assets were used in a venture without prior consent or knowledge of the other partner (i.e. business venture where the other partner had no knowledge or did not consent) and that results in a financial liability.
In these instances, and if the non-violating partner can provide documentary proof of the use of marital assets, the court may be willing to order reimbursement of the marital assets used for these endeavors. Ultimately, the courts must issue financial orders that are equitable, not necessarily equal. While fault is not a consideration, the same sorts of actions may be used to argue that an unequal is equitable under the circumstances.
To set up a FREE initial consultation with our office to discuss your case, you can call our Colorado Springs Divorce Lawyers at (719) 212-2448 or complete our contact form.
Financial Implications of Fault-Related Actions
Forensic Accounting in Divorce When a divorce involves suspicions of financial misconduct—such as hiding assets, reckless spending, or using funds for an affair—uncovering these actions is crucial. Forensic accountants play a key role in this process by analyzing financial records, tracking transactions, and identifying any irregularities. Their expertise helps reveal hidden assets or improper use of marital funds, which can significantly impact the division of property. By presenting clear evidence, forensic accountants ensure a more equitable distribution of assets.
- Examples of Misuse of Marital Assets Misuse of marital assets can heavily influence divorce outcomes. Common examples include:
- Spending on a New Partner: Using marital funds for gifts, trips, or other expenses related to a new romantic relationship depletes shared assets.
- Unauthorized Withdrawals: Large withdrawals from joint accounts without the other spouse's knowledge can jeopardize financial stability and complicate asset division.
- Selling Property Without Consent: Selling valuable assets like real estate or vehicles without the other spouse's approval can lead to significant financial loss.
- Secret Debt: Accumulating debt for personal indulgences, such as gambling or affairs, without informing the other spouse, can create financial liabilities that the wronged spouse may contest during the divorce.
These actions, if proven, can lead to adjustments in the division of assets, ensuring fairness for the wronged spouse.
Set up an initial consultation with our office today. Discuss your case with our Colorado Springs Lawyers at
(719) 212-2448 or complete our contact form.
Divorce Attorney for Mutual Separation
“This is his fault … I have proof that he cheated on me!” Sorry to hear that, but in Colorado, fault is not an issue when parties are seeking divorce. All that is required as proof for divorce in Colorado is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” The parties may simply state their marriage is “irretrievably broken” and such a statement will be sufficient proof to the court.
“She will not sign for the divorce, but I want one!” Not a problem here as only one party need seek divorce on these grounds, even though the other partner does not desire to terminate the marriage.
To set up a FREE initial consultation with our office to discuss your case, you can call our Colorado Springs Divorce Lawyers at (719) 212-2448 or complete our contact form.
-
"I was absolutely floored with the knowledge and expertise that not only Caryn carries, but the firm as a whole."I, unfortunately, was involved with two separate situations within a few years of each other, which left me in quite a bind both times. I was lucky enough to have Caryn assist me in both cases and was absolutely floored with the knowledge and expertise that not only she carries, but the firm as a whole. One of the best, if not the best lawyers I've ever come across. Extremely nice and very honest. I was able to resolve my situations with minimal impact and continue my life without fear of being held back.- Former Client
-
"The professionalism, guidance, and candor I’ve received from each person in this law firm has been beyond reproach."
I’m not one to have an extensive experience with law firms or lawyers and court in general. However, the professionalism, guidance, and candor I’ve received from each person in this law firm have been beyond reproach. Anytime, I mean, anytime, I’ve had a question about my case and the way forward, I was met with a friendly and constructive conversation about my case. There was never a doubt in my mind, that I made the right choice when I selected this law firm to represent me. Caryn and Stacie have been a wonderful blessing to my life and my legal proceedings. If you are looking for a no-BS law firm that has a significant reputation in the Springs area, I absolutely recommend this one. Even though I hope to not have to deal with this again, fingers crossed and every lucky charm, I’d trust this law firm with my representation to handle the hard stuff and give me ease with court proceedings. Thank you all for what you do and have done for me, my family, and my career. Bless you all.
- Steve S. -
"If you need any Legal advice or assistance reach out to the Gasper Law Group. 5 star service."Gasper Law Group is great to work with. I recently did Estate Planning and they were awesome. Explained everything thoroughly. Emily, Jack, Therese , Holly, and Emily are all very professional. If you need any Legal advice or assistance reach out to the Gasper Law Group. 5 star service.- Ruby D.
-
"Excellent care and representation"The Gasper Law Group took great care of me throughout my legal situation and constantly kept me in the loop. Couldn't ask for better representation!- Ryan L.
-
"They answered every call, every email from me in the long process of this probate and they all was very professional"
I really want to Thank Jack, Emily, and Therese for all their hard work taking care of my sister Pamela Bellos’s estate , they answered every call, every email from me in the long process of this probate and they all was very professional
- Karen B. -
"A courteous, respectful, and efficient group"Highly professional team of attorneys and paralegal staff who work hard to reach the best outcomes for their clients. A courteous, respectful, and efficient group in all phases and aspects of due diligence, and discovery with effective preparation of cases entrusted to them. I recommend them highly and without reservation in all areas of the law in which they are eminently qualified.- Salah H.
-
"Don’t have much hope? Leave it to Caryn she will change that."I dug myself a deep hole and didn’t have much hope or luck with the attorney I used before. I called Gasper law group and Caryn Adams was my attorney that took charge of everything. I couldn’t have asked for anything better the outcome she made possible is everything I wanted. She is great at her job and takes cases seriously … don’t have much hope leave it to Caryn she will change that. Thanks Gasper law group you’re the best!- Mike L.
-
"If you need legal help use Gasper, ask for Christine I am thankful I did!!!"I don't write many reviews! Gasper Law Group proved to be worthy of my highest recommendation. Everyone at some time will need some legal service, but where to go. I want you to know Gasper Law Group can help you save what you might stand to lose. I really want you to know Christine S. is the finest Family Law Attorney you will find. Christine is experienced, committed to her clients, and will help save what whats most important to you. I would so like the leadership of Gasper Law Group to know how fortunate they are to have a team member of her Caliber. If you need legal help use Gasper, and ask for Christine I am thankful I did!!!- Eric D.