Episode Summary: In this episode of Continental Divide: A Guide to Colorado Divorce, hosts Kristi Anderson Wells and Sean O'Connor explore the complexities of unmarried partner breakups in Colorado. Joined by Ann Gushurst, an attorney known for her role in eliminating the ban on same-sex marriage in the Colorado Constitution, they delve into the legal challenges that unmarried couples face when separating. The discussion highlights the differences between divorce and unmarried breakups, the implications of common law marriage, and the importance of cohabitation agreements. The hosts emphasize the unpredictable nature of common law marriage rulings and the potential financial and legal pitfalls for couples who do not formalize their relationship. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the intricacies of family law in Colorado, providing valuable insights and practical advice to protect one's interests.

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About the Show: Continental Divide: A Guide to Colorado Divorce is a podcast dedicated to unraveling the complexities of family law in Colorado. Hosted by Kristi Anderson Wells, a seasoned family law attorney, the show provides listeners with insightful discussions on divorce, custody, and financial issues. With a focus on clarity and practical advice, the series is designed for individuals navigating the legal landscape of family relationships. Whether you're facing a divorce or simply interested in understanding the intricacies of family law, Continental Divide offers valuable guidance and expert perspectives to help you make informed decisions.

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In this episode of Continental Divide: A Guide to Colorado Divorce, host Sean O'Connor is joined by Kristi Anderson Wells and Ann Gushurst to explore the various pathways families can take through divorce in Colorado. Ann, a pioneer in collaborative divorce law, shares her insights on the differences between litigation, mediation, and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right approach for each unique situation. The discussion covers the adversarial nature of litigation, the cooperative spirit of collaboration, and the strategic use of mediation in both contexts. Ann and Kristi also delve into the practical aspects of collaborative divorce, including the role of neutrals and the importance of trust and open communication. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate the complexities of divorce while minimizing conflict and fostering positive outcomes for families.

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00:01 – Introduction

0:33 – Overview of Divorce Paths in Colorado

1:01 – Ann Gushurst's Role in Collaborative Law

2:17 – Understanding the Role of Neutrals

3:05 – Defining Litigation in Divorce

4:39 – The Adversarial Nature of the Legal System

6:11 – The Collaborative Approach to Divorce

9:45 – Timeline of Collaborative Cases

12:00 – Ethics and Collaborative Law

13:40 – The Role of Mediation in Divorce

15:04 – Importance of Information in Mediation

17:23 – Challenges in Collaborative Divorce

22:03 – Cases Suitable for Collaboration

23:30 – Addressing Domestic Violence in Collaborative Cases

About the Show: 

Continental Divide: A Guide to Colorado Divorce is a podcast dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of family law in Colorado. Hosted by Sean O'Connor, the show features expert insights from leading attorneys like Kristi Anderson Wells, offering listeners practical advice on divorce, mediation, and collaborative law. With a focus on clarity and empathy, the series aims to empower listeners with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions during one of life's most challenging transitions.