97825396EC00AD36872586C400706C24 Hearing Summary

Representatives Snyder and Tipper, prime sponsors, presented Senate Bill 21-143, concerning the "Uniform Collaborative Law Act". Representative Snyder provided an overview of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Tipper provided additional input on the bill's operation. Representative Snyder responded to questions regarding statistics he cited pertaining to divorce and the use of the collaborative law process. Representative Tipper discussed language in the bill pertaining to domestic violence and the collaborative law process, and flexibility in this process.

Terri Harrington, representing Colorado Collaborative Law Professionals, testified in support of SB 21-143.

Meggin Rutherford, representing herself, testified in support of the bill.

Discussion ensued regarding the process by which clients employ the collaborative law process, the interplay between collaborative law and mediation, and nonparty participants as referenced in the bill. Discussion followed regarding certain definitions in the bill, the number of states that have adopted the Uniform Collaborative Law Act, and the need for the bill in light of the fact that collaborative law is currently being practiced in Colorado. Ms. Harrington responded to questions regarding what happens when clients in the collaborative law process object to established agreements.

No amendments were offered to SB 21-143. The bill's prime sponsors provided closing remarks in support of the bill. Representatives Benavidez and Luck discussed the merits of the legislation.