At Colbath & Czech Law Group, our experience across many divorce matters has led to a clear, proven process designed to help clients achieve favorable outcomes.

Determine Your Needs & Goals
We begin by discussing your family and unique needs. Our team focuses on making the process as smooth as possible and understanding your circumstances so we can determine how best to assist you. We also help you picture life after divorce—property, parenting plans, and finances—so we can choose the right approach to your case.

Gather Family Records
We conduct a detailed assessment of your personal information and help you gather records such as background, education, medical history, work history, and your relationship with your children. We also document information related to your spouse, including their relationship with the children, income, and relevant history. If you have children, we’ll review their current living environment and daily routines to identify the most beneficial parenting arrangements to pursue.

Gather Financial Records
Your attorney will need a complete record of your financial accounts, including:

• Assets: stocks, retirement accounts, vehicles (owned), real estate or other property, business interests.

• Debts: mortgage, car loans, credit cards; premarital debts may not be subject to distribution but should still be disclosed.

• Income: each spouse’s income is considered when determining child support, spousal support, and property division.

Form Your Legal Strategy
Once we understand your finances, circumstances, and post-divorce goals, we craft a personalized roadmap. We develop a realistic, cost-effective strategy addressing finances, child custody, parenting time, and other key issues—tailored to protect your interests.

Initiate a Divorce Case
The process begins when one spouse files with the court. If you agree on all issues (property, parenting rights, visitation), you may file a 1A Joint Petition for an uncontested divorce. If you cannot agree on some issues, you’ll file a 1B Complaint for divorce. Uncontested cases are often faster and less expensive, but certain rights—like time with your children—may warrant a firmer approach. Our attorneys will help you choose the appropriate filing.

Commence Discovery
During discovery, both spouses exchange and verify information and may request additional details. We use this phase to build a strong case and may file motions asking the judge to act on specific issues (for example, a temporary custody order if parents can’t agree on a living arrangement while the case is pending).

Mediation & Negotiation
Most divorce cases are resolved through negotiation and mediation outside the courtroom. Trials can be time-consuming and expensive, so it’s often in both parties’ best interests to reach settlement if possible. Negotiations can begin any time after filing and continue up to—or even during—trial. Mediation is a helpful tool when both parties are open to the process.

Litigation If Necessary
If reasonable agreement can’t be reached, the case proceeds to trial. A judge reviews the evidence, hears from each side, and decides disputed issues. We work to resolve cases efficiently, but we are fully prepared to advocate for you in court if trial becomes necessary.

Finalizing Your Case
After a final divorce judgment is entered, the divorce becomes final after 90 days. Because the terms will bind both parties, they must be clear and complete. We help you carefully review and finalize all documents needed to close your case.

Pursuing Modifications
If circumstances change significantly (for example, a job change), certain orders may be modified. If the change is minor, we’ll help you weigh the cost versus benefit of seeking modification. Common modifications include:

• Alimony (spousal support)

• Child support

• Parenting plans

The Guidance You Need
Divorce can be confusing and isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our knowledgeable, compassionate family law team will guide you step by step. Call our office today to discuss how we can help.