Colorado is one of only a few states that continue to recognize the concept of “common law” marriage.  Common law marriages have been recognized since ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, eras where community recognition of the marital relationship exceeded the involvement of state or religious institutions.  In Colorado today, a common law marriage allows parties to become married without the need for a marriage license issued by the government and without the need for a formal marriage ceremony.  It is important to understand what does and does not create a common law marriage, as couples married under the common law are considered married for all legal purposes.

The Colorado Senate is considering a bill that would drastically amend provisions relating to how Courts allocate parenting time in domestic relations cases.  The amendments would also limit the scope and authority of the two professionals used most in child custody litigation, Child and Family Investigators (“CFIs”) and Parental Responsibilities Evaluators (“PREs”).  The language of the bill indicates that the main purpose for these amendments is to minimize the harmful effects of custody litigation on children.  Herein I will examine the impact this proposed legislation will have on initial parenting time determinations made in domestic relations cases.  As discussed below, the proposal to limit the role of CFIs and PREs in family law matters may undercut the exact purpose of the remaining amendments in SB 15-129.  

Colorado is an “at-will” employment state, which means that, generally speaking, an employee may be terminated for any or no reason, with or without cause, and with or without notice.  In fact, even if the reason for termination is unfair, or irrational, or purely a personality conflict, it is not necessarily unlawful.

For most people, municipal court is the only personal connection they have with the judicial system.  Municipal courts deal with cases which involve code and building violations, animal offenses, and some petty and misdemeanor crimes.  Most often, appearances in municipal court are for traffic infractions.  I am sure that many of us have waited in a municipal court holding our speeding tickets and wondering what is going to happen!