Child’s Legal Representative (CLR)
Ensuring Your Child's Voice and
Best Interests Are Protected
When families navigate the complexities of the legal system, children are often the most vulnerable participants. In high-conflict domestic relations and family law cases, it is critical that a child has a dedicated advocate to ensure their rights and well-being are not lost in the process.
As a court-appointed Child’s Legal Representative (CLR), my sole focus is to advocate for the best interests of the children involved in domestic relations matters throughout Colorado.
What is a Child's Legal Representative?
In Colorado, a CLR is an attorney appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a minor child during legal proceedings, such as divorce or the allocation of parental responsibilities (custody).
Unlike the attorneys representing the parents, a CLR is entirely independent. My role is not to side with either parent, but to step into the courtroom as the legal voice for the child. This involves:
Independent Investigation: Gathering relevant information regarding the child's life, schooling, and home environments.
Active Advocacy: Participating in hearings, filing motions, and making recommendations to the court based strictly on what serves the child's long-term well-being.
Protecting the Child: Shielding the minor from the conflict of litigation as much as possible while ensuring their lived reality is understood by the judge.
A Child-Centered Methodology
My practice is founded on a deeply child-centered methodology. I believe that securing the best possible outcome for a minor requires looking at the whole picture, not just the legal filings.
This approach involves comprehensive collaboration with all parties involved in the child's life. I work closely with co-counsel, parents, teachers, therapists, and other professionals to build a complete understanding of the child's needs. By fostering communication and focusing on the child's reality, we can often de-escalate conflict and guide families toward resolutions that truly serve the minor's best interests.
Appointments & Referrals
I am committed to making child advocacy accessible and accept both state-paid and private-pay appointments.
I highly encourage referrals from fellow attorneys, mediators, and court professionals who are managing complex domestic relations cases where a child requires independent representation.
Ready to discuss your case? If you are an attorney seeking a CLR referral, or a parent navigating a complex family law matter, I would be happy to engage in a conversation about how my expertise can assist in your specific situation.