What is the Initial Status Conference?

When you file for divorce or custody in Colorado, you will be issued a Notice of an Initial Status Conference (or, in some counties, you have to schedule it if you are the Petitioner). This Conference is the orientation to your divorce or custody case. Sometimes, you will meet with your judge depending on the county and local practices. Many times, you will meet with an assistant of the Court, known as a Family Court Facilitator or “FCF” for short. The FCF will explain the process of your case and set deadlines for the submission of financials, or to schedule mediation. If both of those are already done in your matter, the FCF can help set your case for a hearing before the judge.

The ISC is not a hearing where you present evidence or testimony to the Court. It is an informal call (or sometimes, in-person or virtual appearance). Consider it a sort of “check-in” with the Court to make sure your case is running smoothly. You’ll talk mediation, experts, temporary orders (if needed), and financial disclosures. If you started the case, you will need to update the FCF about service on the other side.

Contact us today for more information on the Initial Status Conference, how to obtain representation to prepare for the Initial Status Conference, and unbundled services! If you can’t afford legal services or want to opt out of lawyers, check out Maha’s Colorado Family Law: A Handbook (specifically, page 36) to get more details on how to prepare for your Initial Status Conference.

Please note that this page is intended to be informational and should not substitute legal advice on your family law matter. Contact us today to discuss options on how to prepare and attend the Initial Status Conference with our award-winning legal services.