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The Law Office of Monica S. McElyea, LLC
The Law Office of Monica S. McElyea, LLC

970-325-6319

Handling Family Law, Criminal Defense And Civil Litigation Matters Throughout The Mountain Areas And Western Slope Of Colorado

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Guiding You Through Divorce And Other Family Law Matters

Ending your marriage or facing bitter disputes over parental responsibilities, child custody, parenting time or visitation can be traumatic. Knowing your rights and obligations is essential to relieving stress and making confident decisions.

At The Law Office of Monica S. McElyea, LLC, in Grand Junction, Colorado, we know when to negotiate and when to go to court. With over 30 years of experience, family law attorney Monica S. McElyea aggressively protects you and diligently works to resolve your case smoothly, efficiently and cost-effectively.

Your Future Is Important To Us

Organization and advanced planning are crucial for a successful divorce outcome and a brighter future. Dissolving a marriage can be complex. Colorado is also one of only fifteen states that recognize common law marriages, which can further complicate divorce proceedings.

We will listen to your concerns and take the time to explain the “legalese” so you understand the process. At the same time, we know what you are going through and will compassionately guide you through every step.

Colorado follows equitable distribution rules for dividing marital assets and debts, which doesn’t necessarily guarantee you an equal share. Ms. McElyea will protect your interests and help you receive what you deserve.

Assistance For Divorce Issues You May Face

We aim to help you obtain the most favorable outcome in any family law matter. For divorce, that may include these issues:

  • Creating exit strategies for marriages
  • Prelitigation management
  • Mothers’ and fathers’ rights
  • Parenting time and parental responsibilities (custody and visitation)
  • Separation agreements
  • Spousal support or spousal maintenance (alimony)
  • Property division (marital assets)

For experienced and caring assistance, call our Grand Junction office at 970-325-6319 to schedule a consultation.

Parental Responsibilities And Parenting Time

Disagreements over where your children will live and how to raise them are often central issues in a divorce. Colorado’s family statutes use the terms:

  • Parental responsibility: Parents can share decision-making authority for education, health care and other major decisions, or the court may designate one parent to have sole authority.
  • Parenting time: Formerly known in Colorado as custody and visitation, parents typically share parenting time, which may or may not be equal.

Parents who agree can submit their plans to the court for approval. If they disagree, the courts will decide for them, focusing on the children’s best interests.

Ms. McElyea draws on three decades of legal experience to protect the bond with your children and find workable solutions.

We also address parental responsibility for unmarried parents, which can involve paternity issues. In addition, we handle modifications of existing parenting arrangements.

Child Support And Spousal Maintenance

Many expenses are associated with children, including food, clothing and shelter. Single parents may depend on child support payments to provide for their children.

Some single parents also need and rely on spousal maintenance – Colorado’s term for spousal support, previously known as alimony. If a court order requires your ex-spouse to pay spousal maintenance, we will help you get what they owe you.

On the other hand, if you believe your ex-spouse does not need child support or spousal maintenance payments, we will help you oppose attempts to make you pay.

Other Family Law Services We Provide

At The Law Office of Monica S. McElyea, LLC, you will receive skilled representation in other areas of family law, including:

  • Marital Agreements (Prenuptial, Postnuptial agreements)
  • Common law marriage
  • Child dependency and neglect
  • Adoption
  • Divorce and separation mediation services

We are your trusted partner for these and other family law issues. You can count on our empathetic and knowledgeable guidance. We will keep you updated on the status of your case as well as the options to help you achieve your goals.

Get The Help You Need Today

Let us help you get the results you deserve so you and your family can move into your new life without stress. Get started today by calling us at 970-325-6319 or by emailing us. From our office location in Mesa County, we represent clients throughout Summit County, Mesa County, Delta County, Montrose County, Eagle County, Lake County, Park County and Grand County.