Practice Areas: Family Law; view more
Licensed in Colorado since: 1993
Education: University of Denver Sturm College of Law
Languages Spoken: English, Spanish
Selected to Super Lawyers: 2006 - 2008, 2015 - 2017, 2021 - 2023 Details
Attorney Richard A. Harris is the president and managing partner of The Harris Law Firm, which has office locations in Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Englewood, and Evergreen, Colorado. Nationally recognized as one of the top attorneys in his state as well as the entire country, Mr. Harris focuses his practice primarily on family law, and he provides unmatched representation to clients throughout the greater Denver metro and Front Range regions who are going through a divorce or have some other serious legal issues affecting their families.
An intensely passionate attorney, Mr. Harris has more than 26 years of total legal experience, and he has gained a reputation for his in-depth legal knowledge and commitment to help all he serves obtain the favorable outcomes they seek as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.
Honored for his outstanding professionalism and service, Mr. Harris holds an AV Preeminent peer review rating* from Martindale-Hubbell, and he has received consistent top rankings and endorsements from his peers, including recognition from The Best Lawyers in America. Moreover, he has also received a Top Colorado Lawyer designation from The Denver Post, and designation as a Best Family Law Attorney from Law Week Colorado.
In addition, Mr. Harris has earned "Superb" 10 out of 10 client ratings on Avvo along with the Top 10 Attorney Award for Colorado from the National Academy of Family Law Attorneys. Noted for his selfless contributions to the underprivileged in society and volunteer legal work, he has received the Pro Bono Achievement Award from the Colorado Supreme Court along with an Outstanding Volunteerism award from Metro Volunteer Lawyers.
A graduate of the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Arts in international relations, Mr. Harris attended the University of Denver's Sturm College of Law, where he obtained his Juris Doctor in 1993. He is an active member of the Denver and Colorado Bar associations, and he once served as president of Metro Volunteer Lawyers.
A leader in his field, Mr. Harris has published numerous articles and conducted lectures and continuing legal education seminars across his region on a variety of legal topics. He also co-authored the Colorado Family Law Deskbook.
*AV®, AV Preeminent®, Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished and Martindale-Hubbell Notable are certification marks used under license in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell® is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the anonymous opinions of members of the bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Rating™ fall into two categories – legal ability and general ethical standards.
Best Lawyers® and The Best Lawyers in America© are registered trademarks of BL Rankings, LLC d/b/a Best Lawyers and Co., LLC. The names, logo, and database are protected under the trademark, copyright, and fair use laws of the United States of America. Any use of name, including in electronic form, must be made only by permission and under the guidelines of BL Rankings, LLC d/b/a Best Lawyers and Co., LLC.
Practice areas
Family LawFocus areas
Adoption, Alimony & Spousal Support, Child Support, Custody & Visitation, Dissolution, Divorce, Domestic Violence, Juvenile Law, Marital Property, Mediation & Collaborative Law, Paternity, Prenuptial Agreements, Same Sex Family Law
- 100% Family Law
First Admitted: 1993, Colorado
Professional Webpage: https://www.harrisfamilylaw.com/meet-the-team/richard-a-harr...
Scholarly Lectures/Writings:
- Rich Harris: Family Lawyer, Business Leader, and Humanitarian - Memphisdivorce.com
- Rich co-authored the publication "Colorado Family Law Deskbook" by Bradford Publishing
- Testimonial for Colorado Public Radio
- Top Five Questions to Ask a Divorce Attorney
- Dividing Debt a Contentious Issue in Divorce Cases - Denver Business Journal
- Non-Nuclear Families Change Courts - Law Week Colorado
- Preserving Children's Rights - Law Week Colorado
- Published by Bradford Publishing, Lead Author, Colorado Family Law Deskbook, 2008
- Should Family Lawyers Take A Hippocratic Oath? - Law Week Colorado
- Discussion on updates to Colorado’s antiquated adultery law, KDVR Fox31
- Featured in KMGH Denver 7News in a piece about parenting and marijuana
- Filing for Divorce and Obtaining the Best Possible Outcome
- Parenting Time, Marijuana, and Amendment 64
- Trapped: Kids and the Lingering Aftermath of Divorce - Law Week Colorado, April 2016
- Rich Harris, President and Managing Partner of The Harris Law Firm worked with legislators Rep. Debbie Benefield this year to help draft House Bill 10-1097. The bill was designed to protect children when unmarried parents separate, allowing them the same rights of children of divorced parents. The new bill corrects this anomaly in Colorado family law statute. The bill was signed by Governor Bill Ritter in March and will go into effect on August 5th of this year., Author, Preserving Children's Rights, Law Week Colorado, June 28, 2010, Colorado Family Law, 2010
Educational Background:
- University of Southern California, (B.A. in International Relations), 1989
Videos:
- Rich Harris introduces The Harris Law Firm and his philosophy regarding the practice of Colorado Family Law., Introduction to Colorado's Family Law Team, Colorado Family Law, 2010
White Papers:
- When you have finally arrived at the difficult conclusion that divorce is inevitable, this is the time to begin planning for your future. The process of divorce can be challenging, but the attorneys at The Harris Law Firm will guide you through each and every step. To obtain the best possible settlement, you and your lawyer will begin by planning the most effective strategies to deal with each aspect of your case. Carefully consider the points in this booklet to prepare for the divorce process while you are still in the marital home and have easy access to your financial statements, legal records, and files. 1. Being Patient with the Divorce Process The initial stages of the divorce process will require that you work with your attorney to prepare, plan and strategize. It is important to remain calm and rational during this initial phase because even though the divorce process can be lengthy and stressful, you will likely make agreements regarding your property and your children that you will regret if you act impulsively and do not take the time consider your options. It is important to take your time and listen to your attorney’s advice in order to create the best possible settlement for your future. 2. Understanding Your Finances If you have not paid attention to the details of your family's financial planning, take the time to discover and understand your investments and the amount of your debts and assets. Begin by making copies of all your financial records for the past 12 months, and keep them in a personal safe deposit box. You will need copies of the following documents: Investment and brokerage accounts Bank and credit union accounts Credit card accounts Loans on vehicles Mortgages on real property Insurance policies Tax returns from the last 2 years Records of monthly income via pay stubs or business records. Also obtain records of your retirement accounts. Although the assets contained in these accounts may not seem significant now, they could be worth a great deal more in the future. IRAs 401(k) s 403(b) s Pension Funds Finally, create a monthly budget that takes into account all the expenses you will incur when you are living on your own. 3. Protecting Your Future Open Accounts in Your Name Only If you and your spouse have cash in your joint account, deposit half of the assets in a new bank account registered in your name only. If your employer pays you via direct deposit, notify the payroll department and provide them with your new account information. If you have automatic withdrawals or deposits, make sure that these debits and credits are also transferred to your account. Keep in mind that your income is marital property until your divorce is final and your martial assets have been divided, but a personal checking account will give you access to the funds that you will require during this period of transition. 4. Protecting Your Security and Your Privacy Finances For security purposes, change your online passwords on your personal financial accounts: Checking Savings Banking Brokerage Email To protect your privacy, create a new email account so that you can keep your communications with your attorney private and confidential. Save all emails that may be relevant to your divorce proceedings. Social Networking Be cautious and conservative when communicating via social networks. Myspace and Facebook in particular has become a source of evidence that can be used by the opposing party. 5. Staying in the Marital Home Due to the current condition of our economy, and for the benefit of the children involved, many couples today choose to remain together in the marital home during their divorce. If you decide to stay in the family residence, attempt to remain courteous and respectful at all times in order to keep stress levels at a minimum. Intense emotions can trigger unfortunate reactions resulting in angry outbursts or even domestic violence. If you or your children’s safety has been threatened by your spouse, do not hesitate to call the police or your local sheriff for immediate assistance. If you do decide to leave the martial home before or during your divorce, sit down with your spouse and create a parenting schedule that you can follow while waiting for your temporary orders hearing. Although not enforceable, having a written document outlining your parenting plan that is signed by both parties can be helpful if one party decides not to allow the other parent time with the children during your separation. 6. Parenting Time and Child Support Filing for the Allocation of Parental Responsibility (APR) The more specific you can be regarding parenting time, the easier the process will be for all concerned. You will want to address all of the following when creating a parenting time schedule: The amount of time with each parent Pick up and drop off times Weekends Vacations Holidays Decision making responsibilities for each parent Your relationship with your spouse regarding the children will change after you divorce, and the plan you agree on now can prevent misunderstandings in the future. Having your attorney draft a highly specific parenting plan will be beneficial to you and your children and your former spouse because it will create an anticipated routine and contingency plans to prevent unnecessary chaos. Paying Child Support If you have been ordered by the court to pay child support, it is your responsibility as the payor to prove that child support has been paid. You should always maintain accurate and ongoing records of all child support payments to avoid the possibility of duplicate payments. Keep a record of all receipts, cancelled checks, and/or photocopies of your payments, or make your payments via the Family Support Registry, so that they can keep track of the payments for you. 7. Preparing an Inventory of your Marital and Separate Property You will need to make a list of all your personal property and define each item as either separate or marital property. Separate property includes all items that were inherited, and those that you accumulated prior to marriage. Marital property will include all items that you acquired after the date of your marriage regardless of how those assets are titled or registered. Take photographs or video record all of your personal possessions and make sure to identify each item as either “marital” or “separate”. 8. Creating a List of Important Contacts It is important to remain in contact with the people who are important to you while you are in transition. Make a list of all those individuals with whom you would like to stay in touch. Obtain the names, phone numbers, addresses, and email information of friends, relatives, neighbors, doctors, lawyers, accountants, counselors, clergy, employers, etc before you leave the marital home. 9. Filing for Modifications with the Court After your divorce is final, make sure that you and your lawyer file any additional or subsequent agreements regarding the allocation of parental responsibilities with the Court. Verbal or written agreements signed by both parents are difficult to enforce, and will not necessarily be upheld later. A verbal agreement will not supersede your Court Orders. 10. Having Realistic Expectations Divorce is similar to marriage in that it will require both parties to make many compromises. Many people enter into divorce proceedings with the expectation that even their most exaggerated demands will be met. When your finances, children, property, a business or retirement assets are in dispute, it is important to have realistic expectations and focus on problem solving in order to reach an agreement. Your parenting schedule will be based on your unique circumstances and the best interests of your children. When creating an agreement, it is important to realize everyone’s marital property was divided in a different manner, and amounts paid for child support and maintenance will vary according to the circumstances of the parties involved. Child support is highly specific and is calculated based on a formula devised by the Colorado legislature, and the amount depends on many factors including the income of each party, and the number of overnights with each parent. Maintenance awards, however, are not always based on a formula, and can be highly subjective. Judges rule only after considering many variables, some of which include health, age, educational levels, years out of the work force, length of the marriage, etc. As you go through the divorce process, it is important to remember that the outcome of your divorce is highly dependent on your unique circumstances and the specifics of your case. Conclusion Your lawyer understands that filing for divorce can be a highly emotional and difficult decision. But to obtain the results you want from your divorce, you must be able to make a series of rational decisions that will require you to have a balanced state of mind. Although your lawyer can guide you through the legal aspects of your case, your feelings of loss, sadness, anger, and even depression are best handled by a qualified therapist. Many counselors are trained to help those experiencing the pain of separation and divorce and will understand what you are going through during this very difficult period. If you are suffering from feelings of stress and/or anxiety, do not hesitate to consult with a therapist who can help you through this phase. Those who seek the services and assistance of counseling early in the divorce process are more likely to remain calmer and obtain better results. You can access a list of qualified therapists on the Resources Section of our website at www.harrisfamilylaw.com. , 10 Points to Consider Before Filing for Divorce, Law, 2011
- This program, offered for CLE credit to a number of primarily-experienced, and well known family law attorneys and judges, was presented at the Lawyers Public Information Institute in Cannes, France., Preventing Child Abduction - Differing Appropaches to the Hague Abduction Convention in the EU, Legal, International Law, 2019
- When Colorado’s Supreme Court amended the Child and Family Investigation (CFI) guidelines earlier this year, the court drastically limited the amount that could be charged for the CFI investigation and the ensuing report, among other significant amendments. While no one doubts that the drafters' intentions were valid, those conducting the investigations have concerns that they will not be able to devote the time necessary to evaluate serious issues. Cutting costs will mean reducing the amount of hours that can be dedicated to the case, and a less than thorough investigation ultimately raises ethical concerns for the CFI. If CFI's cut costs by limiting the number of documents they review and the number of interviews conducted, families with high levels of conflict will not be properly served and children who have been negatively impacted will not be protected. Child and Family Investigator (CFI) Formerly referred to as a "Special Advocate", the role of the Child and Family Investigator (CFI) was created in July of 2005 by the Colorado Revised statutes. The function of a CFI is to investigate the family dynamics in an effort to determine the best interests of the child. The CFI, usually an attorney or a mental health professional with the appropriate training and qualifications, is appointed by a court at the request of one of the parties in a divorce or custody case to assist in the determination of the allocation of parental responsibilities. As a neutral third party, the CFI does not represent either party in the divorce action, and is not the legal representative of the child. CFI Responsibilities The primary responsibility of the CFI is to file a written report of their findings, and make recommendations to the court to be used in the determination of the parenting plan. The process of the CFI’s investigation typically involves meetings with each parent, the child, and any and all other significant parties to the case. Although the determination of parenting time is not bound by the child’s wishes, it is required that their requests are set forth in the final report. The scope of the CFI also includes the evaluation of all relevant data associated with the matter in order to conclude the assessment. The cost of a CFI investigation and the written report is generally shared by both parties. Amendments to the CFI Guidelines In an effort to streamline the investigative process, in April of 2011, the CFI Guidelines were amended by the Colorado Supreme Court. The amendments reflect Chief Justice Michael L. Bender’s decisions based on recommendations submitted by The Supreme Court Standing Committee on Family Issues. Changes to the guidelines may also have been based on consistent inquiries regarding the cost of the investigation, the intrusiveness of the process, and the suitability of utilizing the services of non-judicial personnel. The following changes were made to the CFI procedures: Establish a maximum fee of $2,000.00 for the investigation and report; Require further order of the court and specific findings of extraordinary circumstances to justify fees and costs that exceed the $2,000 limit; Eliminate CFI authority to perform psychological testing and/or drug and alcohol evaluations; Eliminate CFI quasi-judicial immunity in the order of appointment; and Eliminate CFI authority to conduct a meeting with parties when a protection order restrains such contact. These new rules could mean that those who serve as CFI’s will no longer be able to provide their services because they can longer do so in an ethical manner. If CFIs believe that the amendments limit their ability to serve families and the courts, continuing to do so would put their careers, reputations, and professional licenses at risk. Ultimately, if qualified experts continue to withdraw from the process, it is the children of the State of Colorado who will suffer most., Will the New Child and Family Investigation Guidelines Hinder the Process?, Family Law Attorneys, 2011
Honors/Awards:
- The Harris Law Firm received the honor of being recognized for our pro bono service and commitment to systemic justice in our state by receiving the prestigious Law Firm of the Year award., Law Firm of the Year, The Colorado Lawyers Committee, 2021
- Recognition for my support of the DDP's city-building efforts, including my service on a number of committees and support for a wide variety of civic and charitable programs sponsored by the DDP., Downtown Champion, Downtown Denver Partnership, 2019
- The Colorado Supreme Court recognized Rich and The Harris Law Firm as a leader in pro bono activity, 2008 - 2018
- Top Ten Lawyers of the Decade by Law Week Colorado, 2011
- The Harris Law Firm was nominated as Law Firm of the Year by the Colorado Lawyers Committee (CLC), 2011
- Top Colorado Lawyer by The Denver Post, 2015
- Best Family Law Firm in Denver by the “People's Choice,” in Law Week Colorado, 2010
- Pro Bono Recognition from the Colorado Supreme Court in recognition of the firm’s pro bono work on behalf of the state’s underprivileged, 2008 - 2018
- Top Rated Lawyer in Family Law by Martindale-Hubbell®, 2015
- Colorado Super Lawyers for Family Law, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
- NAFLA Top 10 Attorney Award for Colorado, 2017
- "AV" rating from Martindale-Hubbell (~2004-Present)
- Best Lawyers: The Best Lawyers in America®, 2020
- Avvo Rating of 10.0 Superb
- Attorney Rich Harris was awarded a certificate from Metro Volunteer Lawyers this year for his "Outstanding Volunteerism" throughout the year., Award, Metro Volunteer Lawyers, 2010
- Award to up and coming, business leaders by Denver Business Journal, Forty Under 40, 2006
- In 2010, Law Week Colorado's Barrister Best issue, voted Rich Harris as The Best Family Law Attorney., Barrister's Best 2010, Law Week Colorado, 2010
- Leadership in giving in Rotary International, Paul Harris Fellow
- Rich Harris, President, Founder, and Managing Partner of The Harris Law Firm has been selected as editor's choice for the Best Family Law attorney by Law Week Colorado 2011 for the second year in a row!, Best Family Law Attorney, Law Week Colorado, 2011
Pro bono/Community Service:
- Downtown Denver Partnership. I am a recently appointment member of the Board of Directors of one of the governing boards of this organization - specifically, Downtown Civic Ventures., 2022
- Downtown Denver Partnership, Chair, City Rise Committee, 2022
- Denver Rotary Club, past president
- CCAI (Chinese Children’s Charities), Board member and Executive Committee
- Rich Harris comments on Haiti and The Road to Hope on 9 News DENVER - Six months after a series of earthquakes devastated Haiti, Rich Harris is appalled by what he's seen. "I have to tell you, it is just terrible down there," said Harris. "This is a country that's only a short distance from Miami, and yet it feels like it's not even there." Harris and his wife, Lisa, recently adopted two Haitian children who were orphaned and came over to the U.S. after the January 21 earthquake. However, their commitment to Haiti did not end with these adoptions. Shortly after visiting Haiti in the aftermath of the earthquake, the couple founded a non-profit called The Road to Hope, which is raising money to help build a village in Archaie, Haiti. The village will include an orphanage, medical clinic and school, and will include self-sustaining agriculture, water and a vocational training program. "It's really shocking. There are, by some estimates, close to a million orphans in Haiti. It's worse today than perhaps it's ever been. It's up to the people in this country to get something done," said Harris. Last week, the organization received a $250,000 donation from Denver-based Newmont Mining Corporation to get the non-profit off the ground. Harris believes this is just a start, because the damage over in Haiti is almost too devastating to begin to wrap a dollar amount around. "There are a million and a half people living in tents, no signs that we could tell of any major construction of housing, there's rubble clogging the streets of the capitol, and it's truly, truly terrible," said Harris. To learn more about Harris' non-profit supporting Haitian orphans, click onto http://theroadtohope.org. (KUSA-TV © 2010 Multimedia Holdings Corporation)
- In addition to the above, Rich serves on the boards of directors of the Colorado Lawyers Committee and Chinese Children Adoption International (CCAI). He is also a co-founder and chair of the board of The Road to Hope, a Littleton-based organization focused on building schools and other development around children in HAITI.
- Rich Harris and his staff remain active and staunch supporters of a number community organizations dedicated to serving children and the underprivileged. These include Denver Rotary, Metro Volunteer Lawyers, Denver Kids, Colorado Lawyers Committee, Rocky Mountain Children's Law Center, The Adoption Exchange, The Denver Rescue Mission, Family Tree, Food Bank of the Rockies, LawLine 9, Rocky Mountain PBS, Rotary International, Underwearness, Chinese Children Charities, and The Road to Hope., 2010
Bar/Professional Activity:
- Denver Bar Association, 2022
- American Bar Association, International Family Law Committee, 2022
- Colorado Bar Association, Family Law Section, 2022
- Colorado Lawyers Committee, Board Member
- Denver Bar Association
Industry Groups:
- Colorado Family Law
Selections
9 Years Super Lawyers
- Super Lawyers: 2006 - 2008, 2015 - 2017, 2021 - 2023
