Bakkum & Associates, L.L.C
Offices in
Lakewood / Cherry Creek E-mail: BakkumLaw_comcast.net
(303) 331-4434
About us
We are dedicated to and specialize in Family Law. Brian Bakkum has over 14 years of legal experience and has practiced Family Law almost exclusively since 1999. We are dedicated to providing quality, affordable and expert assistance to fit your situation.
We understand that not only is this a difficult and emotional time for everyone involved, but that it can also be a financially trying time, as well. We strive to control costs and charge significantly less than other firms. In Fact, we encourage you to call around town and shop different firms. Our professional advice, experience and commitment to your case means that you can rest assured that your family and finances are in good hands.
History
Brian Bakkum attended the University of California at Santa Barbara where he obtained a degree in Business Economics. He then attended law school at the University of Denver.
Mr. Bakkum worked in the Arapahoe and Douglas County D.A.'s office from 1997 - 1999. In 1999, he shifted his emphasis to Family Law. Mr. Bakkum started Bakkum & Associates after working at several firms that practiced many areas of law as he really wanted a firm that exclusively handled Family Law matters. Since 1999, we have represented hundreds of families with excellent results.
Divorce
We handle all types of divorce, from complex cases involving numerous children, estates involving millions in assets / pensions / retirement accounts, child support, spousal support, to the very simple cases involving no assets or children.
Adoption
In order to adopt a child, whether it be a step-parent adoption, grandparent adoption, etc., the rights of one or more of the parents must be terminated. We work closely with parents / grandparents to understand and navigate through this process so that the children may thrive and be in a loving and safe envirnment.
Custody / Parental Rights
Whether your case involves parenting time, custody, parental rights / responsibilities or child support, we understand that these can be the most difficult issues to resolve. We know there is nothing more important than your children, adopted or biological, and we have the expertise and knowledge to find solutions or fight for your rights.
Child Support / Spousal Support
Whether you are requesting a support order, modifying an existing order or attempting to enforce an order, there are statutory guielines, financial documents to produce and other considerations. With our help and experience, you can obtain a successful result.
Dependancy & Neglect
Cases involving Social Services can be extremely difficult to understand and navigate as there is usually a Guardian Ad Litem, different attorneys, Case Workers, CASA volunteers, etc. We have an abundance of experience and positive outcomes in these matters.
Grandparent Visitation
The State of Colorado recognizes that grandparents have rights and children can benefit immensly from such visitation. However, recent court decisions have made obtaining such visitation more difficult. We have had a great deal of success in fighting for grandparent rights.
Domestic Violence
Whether you are the victim of Domestic Violence or the accused, these cases have severe ramifications on any child custody matters not to mention possible jail time. Mr. Bakkum, as a former prosecutor, has prosecuted hundreds of these cases and possess intricate knowledge to deal with these matters.
Does the divorce/custody process have to be so emotional and confrontational?
Absolutely not. We are proud of the fact that we settle over 90% of our cases without the need for a final hearing where the Judge decides your fate and the fate of your children. Mediation is always the first option and can be very helpful even if the case is not immediately resolved at mediation.
I want to adopt my wife's child(ren), but we can't find the father. Can this be done?
These cases can become difficult, but yes it can be done and we deal with these cases regularly.
I got married in another state, can I still get a divorce in Colorado?
Yes, in most instances so long as one of you has lived here in Colorado for at least 90 days.
How long do I have to respond to being served Divorce papework?
Once you have been served with a Petition and Summons for Divorce, Legal Separation or Allocation of Parental Responsibilities, you have 20 days to file a Response.
My spouse is threatening to leave the State with my kids, is there anything I can do?
YES, you should immediately contact an attorney. Once he/she leaves the State with the children, it becomes immensely more difficult to have them returned.
If we have children, will I have to take a parenting class?
Yes, in almost every situation, everyone involved in a divorce or child custody case in the State of Colorado must take a court approved parenting class if there are children under the age of 18 involved.
Can I get my spouse to pay my legal fees?
Yes, there are specific laws regarding payment of attorneys fees and costs, however this is more common when when one spouse has a significantly higher income.
"...Mr. Bakkum, the best part is that I always felt you knew what I wanted and knew what my kids needed..."
S.D.
"...thanks for working with me and keeping my costs down, it meant a lot to me...I would receommend you any day."
R.B.
First off, let me tell you that I am not sure where I would have ended up in this process without your firm."
R.S.
"Brian I really appreciated your professionalism. Thank you so much for helping me through this case...I know it is your job, but thank you anyway."
Ben S.
LAKEWOOD (6th & Union)
225 Union Blvd.
Suite 150
Lakewood, CO 80228
E-mail: BakkumLaw_comcast.net
CHERRY CREEK (Alameda & Colorado Blvd.)
3773 Cherry Creek Dr. North
Suite 575
©Bakkum & Associates, L.L.C, all rights reserved
