Marvel, CO Divorce Law Firms & Lawyers

There are several things you can do to keep the home as your separate property in case of a future divorce. You could have any future spouse sign a pre-nuptial agreement disclaiming any interest in the real property you owned prior to the marriage. You should also avoid adding your spouse to the title or to the loan obligation in case of a refinance. You should also make the payments on the mortgage and property taxes and upkeep on the home from a separate bank account. Even if a spouse is not on the title to real property, and even though the property is purchased and owned prior to the marriage, they may have a claim on a portion of any increase in the value of the property if they contribute to the increase in value (improvements) or if their income goes into a joint account that pays expenses associated with the property.

If there are no kids, you can file in Colorado if either of you have been living here for at least 90 days. If you want assitance, I often do cases like this on a low flat/fixed fee basis. Feel free to contact me if you have other questions. I hope this helps. 

Under Washington community property law, the contribution of separate property (i.e., pre-martial assets) or community monies or labor after marriage to the separate property residence of a spouse can create a "lien" on the separate property residence and a claim to reimbursement. It depends on the specific facts and circumstances of your case. I recommend that you consult with a specialist who practices in the county in which you reside.