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Culver Winston Van Der Jagt

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Avvo Rating10
  • Denver, CO
  • Licensed for 13 years
  • Free consultation
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About Culver

Although I am a trained litigator, I prefer for parties to work through differences in mediation as it normally benefits everyone (especially the children) to settle differences in that way. 

 

Whether your case has domestic violence, fidelity issues, business valuation issues, alimony, child support, inheritance commingling, trusts, illegal drugs, alcoholism, disabilities, child custody, bankruptcy, abduction, parental rights, relocation, immigration status, or financial issues, just to name a few, I've got you covered.

 

The bottom line is that my firm has an awesome array of talent.  We utilize niche talents within the firm to maximum VALUE to the client.  The results speak for themselves.

 

 

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Practice areas

Domestic violenceChild custodyDivorce and separation
  1. Divorce and separation: 70%

    I am well known in the divorce litigation community. I prefer less litigious solutions and have been working to get families through the process for the least cost possible. I am known for keeping my costs low.

    13 years

  2. Child custody: 20%

    I am best known for my representation of clients in child custody matters.

    13 years

  3. Domestic violence: 10%

    Domestic Violence allegations are often a major part of a divorce proceeding. I often defend against such allegations in child custody battles, but I will assist you well if I believe you are the victim of domestic violence.

    13 years

Languages spoken

English, Spanish, Russian, Mandarin

Photos and videos

1783104 1315710954

Contact

Van Der Jagt Law Firm

1468 S. Pearl St.
Denver, CO, 80210

    Resume

    License
    StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
    COActive200808/11/2021
    We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
    Avvo Contributions
    Legal answers322
    Legal guides7
    Awards
    Award nameGrantorDate granted
    10 BestAmerican Institute of Legal Counsel2016
    Top 40 Lawyers Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2016
    Rising StarSuperLawyers2016
    A+ RatingBBB2015
    Top 40 Lawyers Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2015
    2014 Torch Award for Marketplace Trust - Finalist Small BusinessBBB Foundation Denver/Boulder2014
    Top 40 Lawyers Under 40American Society of Legal Advocates2014
    A+ RatingBetter Business Bureau2014
    Torch Award For Market Place Trust - Winner - Community AdvocateBBB Foundation Denver/Boulder2014
    A+ RatingBBB2013
    Client's Choice AwardAvvo2012
    A RatingBBB2012
    Gold StarBBB2011
    A RatingBBB2011
    A RatingBBB2010
    Gold StarBBB2010
    Associate Attorney of the MonthGutterman Griffiths2009
    Work Experience
    TitleCompany nameDuration
    OwnerVan Der Jagt Law Firm2009 - Present
    AttorneyGutterman Griffiths, PC2008 - 2009
    Litigation AssistantGutterman Griffiths, PC2006 - 2008
    Associations
    Association namePosition nameDuration
    University of DenverMentor Advisory Board Member2013 - Present
    Colorado Bar AssociationMember2008 - Present
    Publications
    Publication nameTitleDate
    Colorado Business MagazineReal Estate Investors and Marriage: What You Need To Know2007
    Colorado Business MagazineHow Uncle Sam Impacts Your Divorce - Tax Implications When You Split2007
    Education
    School nameDegreeGraduated
    Boston University School of LawLL.M - Master of Laws2004
    University of Denver College of LawJD - Juris Doctor2003
    University of Denver Sturm College of LawLL.M - Master of Laws2003
    Speaking Engagements
    Conference nameTitleDate
    2014 BBB Denver Boulder Torch AwardsBBB Torch Award Acceptance Speech2014
    CBS HaystackAlimony2013
    Haystack RadioAlimony (Maintenance)2013
    Life in the Law - Maintaining Work/Life Balance in the Legal ProfessionProductivity, Work-Life Balance, and Ethics2012
    Fox 31 NewsParental Abductions2011
    Legal cases
    Case nameOutcome
    Abduction recovery in child disappearanceChild recovered and living with client majority of year
    Abduction recoveryCase closed - Full allocation of Parental Responsibilities to Father

    Reviews

    (58)
    5 Star
    		97%
    4 Star
    		0%
    3 Star
    		0%
    2 Star
    		0%
    1 Star
    		3%
    Review Culver Van Der Jagt

    Highly recommended

    Posted by

    I can’t express my sincere gratitude to Culver Van Der Jagt! I was going through an uphill battle on a Motion to Restrict case - the case was ruled in my favor, but suddenly took a turn. I came to Van Der to assist me with a Motion to Respond on the other parties appeal. Van Der and his paralegal came along my side & put together an AMAZING repose! Weeks later the District Judge DENIED the appeal & ruled on the magistrates order. Although this law firm didn’t represent me on my case, they offer a non-bundle rate to where those like myself pay for services when a response is needed. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. This attorney knows the law, he’s very fair with what he chargers, and takes the time to hear you! Thank you, thank you Van Der for EVERYTHING you & your paralegal did for me as well as my children!
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    Totally fair, honest and understanding advice.

    Posted by

    My husband and I consulted with Culver a couple of times during our case when our regular Van der Jagt attorney was unavailable (vacation, in court, etc.). Culver was patience personified, he took time to answer phone calls, even took the time to talk when I had to walk-in without an appointment a time or two. His professionalism, reassurance and answers to difficult questions helped to keep our spirits up during a hard 17-month case. Without the help of Culver, his lawyers, and the rest of his firm, we would have been floundering without a clear direction. His firm's prices are extremely reasonable and they don't bill for every little question, which given the length of our case, was greatly appreciated. Culver also helped my husband out with some advice regarding his ex-wife and saved us hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in unnecessary legal fees. There are many lawyers who will advise you to go ahead and file motions that aren't necessarily in the best interest of you and your family, whereas Culver's direct-speak approach and advice on the possible outcomes saved my husband from filing on an issue that probably wouldn't have gone anywhere and just needlessly aggravated the situation with his ex. Thanks to Culver, that situation didn't go from bad to worse. Attorneys aren't the ones, at the end of the day, who have to deal with the children involved in high-conflict divorces, but a good, caring, responsible attorney, who knows when to advise you NOT to file, can help your children and your family. Our consultations with Culver (and all his staff members) always helped us see the best possible picture for our kids. We cannot say enough good things about Culver and his attorneys and staff - I recommend him and his firm to anyone, anytime.
    This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
    Consulted attorney

    Clean, clear, capable and efficient

    Posted by

    I appreciate clarity and directness and from my initial consultation to the outcome this team gave me that. Keeping an eye on costs they handled the process very efficiently and were true advocates. I would recommend them to anyone.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent High Net Worth Attorney and Opposing Counsel to Gutterman/Griffiths

    Posted by

    Culver, Paul, and his team did an excellent job for me throughout my extended divorce process. I highly recommend this firm for anyone that is going through this horrible process and wants to come through the other side with a smile on their face and maybe even some new friends. Unlike other divorce attorneys that treat this like a fee generating, paper-pushing process (e.g. the attorney I fired prior to engaging Culver, my ex-spouse's attorney, etc.); Culver understands that at the core of these matters are people, emotions, children, extended families, years of hard work, etc. He works with his clients and lets you be part of his legal team thereby enabling you to navigate a process that can quickly feel like you have no control over with other attorneys. Divorce is terribly invasive and frankly cruel depending on opposing counsel and their tactics; Culver knows most of these combatants through firsthand experience and is quick to develop tailored action plans that work perfectly to outwit their tactics. My specific case was fairly complex and involved a substantial estate value. It was also against an opposing counsel (Gutterman and Griffiths) that is known to be incredibly aggressive, I believe horribly unethical, and difficult to reach a settlement with. If you find yourself against this Firm, Culver is definitely your best choice in Denver in my opinion. I originally engaged another highly touted law firm and found myself after 4-5 months spending close to $40-50K dollars, making no progress, and having NO idea where we were in terms of status or what our strategy was to close down the open points. I am certain had I stayed the course, I would have been in for another 100K and ended up with a less attractive settlement than I reached with Culver at the helm. I terminated their services, contacted Culver, and within weeks we were having our first settlement discussions with opposing counsel. It ultimately took another year to wrap the case but I ended up spending less with Culver than I did with my other counsel in their 4 months of wasted paper pushing and got treated like a real human being. I am convinced that we ultimately achieved a more favorable outcome. I also highly recommend this firm if you are the type of client that is semi-capable yourself and willing to save yourself some money by helping Culver and team with some of the work associated with the "administrivia" of the divorce process. Remember, if you are willing to work with Culver and team you will not only save a LOT of money but together, you and his team will reach a much more favorable outcome than you could reach with other lawyers that just push paper around. I highly recommend this firm and would be glad to talk to anyone considering using Culver and his services.
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Van Der Jagt Lawfirm did me RIGHT and WELL

    Posted by

    Van Der Jagt Law firm represented me in my divorce of 7.5 years. Nothing was sugar coated and the firm was more than UP FRONT and HONEST with me as to how the dissolution would go. I was told my ex husband would be getting half of my estate...but once we sat down and went through financials etc... He ended up getting only 10% of what I thought I was going to owe him. And that was a great relief especially seeing that I'm the one who pays ALL the bills upfront and in full. The WHOLE process was smooth and seamless. This firm handled every piece of paper work, phone calls and court appointments. EVERYONE was courteous and professional at all times even as cried on visiting the office and meeting my attorney. I AM MORE THAN HAPPY of the outcome and I so appreciate all this firm did for me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Angela
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Excellent lawyer and human being

    Posted by

    Culver has being a source of clarity and blessing in all my legal proceedings and through a difficult divorce process. He is loyal and always on my side. I had a really tough case and he was able to get the best possible outcome that surpassed all of my expectations. 5 stars is not enough!
    This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
    Hired attorney

    Caring, effective, expert attorneys.

    Posted by

    Copied letter to Van Der Jagt law: Thank you for your support and the support of Kelli Malcolm, as I negotiated legal waters with my ex-husband. In particular, you recognized that though I did not fully understand it or want to embrace it, I was a victim of domestic abuse. You introduced me to the "wheel of power and abuse” and my life changed. My husband has supported me through the years regarding my ex, but your revelation helped me to help myself. I studied the wheel components and made myself understand how I came to where I was. For a short while I denied so many “check marks” of the wheel, then I felt enlightenment and acceptance which then transformed to anger at myself and my ex. Now the anger has subsided and I have empowerment. With empowerment one can accept the past, resolve the issues, and never fall into that trap again. Thank you for empowering me. I have met with my ex several times since and I have remained strong, to the facts, solid in commitment, and will never cower again. My past anxiety (PTSD) dealing with him has now turned to normal anxiety for the situation, but without a racing heart, fear, dread, or submission. Kelli (Malcolm) is a gem! She is such an advocate. I remember in the office consultation someone said that “no one could ever be mean to Kelli.” I had yet to meet her, but when I did I realized that "though she be small, she be fierce.” She was very professional and supportive. She earnestly conveys an attitude of doing what is right for the children, which no one can argue with. She was soft yet powerful, mild yet controlling in the meeting with my ex and his attorney. She has some sort of magic for controlling chaos. Her knowledge and vast experience of social services and the policies/procedures therein make her an expert for cases like mine or any involving children. I believe her heartfelt concern is for the children, and that is a powerful component which lends to trustworthiness. I highly recommend her services. Thank you, J. Rausch

    Culver guided me through a tough divorce

    Posted by

    I first showed up at the Van Der Jagt offices as a walk-in without an appointment. Within minutes I was talking with Culver. Culver showed me that he understood the situation I was in. I was divorcing a high-conflict personality disordered spouse. Culver asked me some very specific questions that let me know that he knew how borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder would effect the divorce process. He offered me some advise on serving the divorce papers that at first I found hard to accept. In fact, I argued with him against this advise for 30 minutes. Now, over a year later, I'm glad I followed his advise! He definitely saved me from making a costly mistake. The thing that impresses me most about Culver is that he utilizes his extensive experience in litigating tough divorce cases to offer rock-solid advise to his clients on how to navigate the entire divorce process both personally and legally.

    SUPER BOWL Sunday Emergency!

    Posted by

    It was Super Bowl Sunday and I had an emergency child custody issue that needed immediate attention. I contacted Culver and he agreed we needed to address the situation ASAP. He asked me to meet him at his law office and he worked with me on my case until after midnight. His professionalism, responsiveness and dedication to my case was more than I could have ever imagined. He is powerful, intelligent and focused. This short review cannot relay the gratitude I feel toward Culver Van Der Jagt and his team.

    MM

    Posted by

    I hired Culver and his team of proffesionals for my divorce.I had two lawyers previous to this lawfirm that did not compare.Culver and myself spent many hours preparing for trial, one night we picked through thousands of pieces of paper until 3 in the morning.I consider Culver and his team child advocates. I walked into their office, told them my situation concearning my children and custody issues.I was up against many false allegations.It took about 2 weeks and these guys had this situation under control.I am very greatful for all the hard work leading to a fair result in my divorce.If you are involved in a high contested divorce I would highly reccomend Culver and his team.
    Culver Van Der Jagt's response: Sometimes Fathers wind up with difficult situations merely because accusations are made against them. It is interesting to go to hell and back to get clients out of terrible messes. I believe in Karma and this particular case had a lot of Karma built up… the truth just needed to get out, but settlement is sometimes even more reasonable for the entire family than revisiting the past. I'm proud of how both parties and both attorneys in this case were able to move forward for the sake of the children. I'm not big on all-nighters unless someone kicks the beehive and thinks it will go without a response.
    See all reviews

    Attorney endorsements

    (30)
    Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

    Hovanes Margarian

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Kelly Breuer, Divorce and separation Attorney on Aug 16, 2014
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Culver is a true professional, representing his clients with passion and ability.

    Aaron Harper, Domestic violence Attorney on Jan 29, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Top-notch defense lawyer for tough cases. Highly respected in the legal community.

    Justin Ross, Family Attorney on Jan 16, 2014
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Culver is a passionate advocate. I have been impressed with his pursuit of justice and results for his clients. I would not hesitate to refer anyone seeking representation to Culver.

    Christopher McLane, Family Attorney on Dec 14, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Christopher Leroi, Divorce and separation Attorney on Sep 2, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Mr. Van Der Jagt is an exemplary attorney. I would refer anyone and everyone to him on a regular basis. Despite the fact that I have been a judge, magistrate, prosecutor, and private attorney for over 24 years, I continue to learn from him daily from his Avvo posts. I would recommend that you hire him in an instant.

    Joseph Sumner

    Culver is a highly experienced family law attorney who cares deeply for his clients and fights for their rights. He has a strong reputation in the legal community and I strongly recommend him.

    Christine Nierenz, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jul 13, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Cindy Perusse, Child custody Attorney on Jun 30, 2013
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    Culver is fearless in taking on cases. He has a calmness about him that clients find comforting. He is good at finding creative solutions to difficult problems. He embraces technology to provide the most efficient legal services to clients. Culver is very involved in the Colorado Bar Association and is well respected by his colleagues.

    Zachary Friedman, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Apr 25, 2013
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer.

    Tara Damhoff, Child custody Attorney on Jan 6, 2013
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I strongly endorse this lawyer. Mr. Van Der Jagt is a highly knowledgeable and compassionate attorney. He thoroughly understands the intricacies of family law and will fight to get you the best outcome possible.

    Paul Gaide, Divorce and separation Attorney on Sep 28, 2012
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Van Der Jagt is a very professional, knowledgeable, reliable and seasoned family law attorney who is well regarded in the community. He cares about each of his clients and surrounds himself with highly competent and steadfast professionals. If you have a complex family matter and need a strong, veteran advocate or mediator, you should contact Attorney Van Der Jagt.

    Kimberly Utesch, Divorce and separation Attorney on Sep 26, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I highly endorse this lawyer. He is compassionate and thorough and works hard to get his clients the best deal available to them. Working opposite Culver I found him to be professional, reasonable and creative.

    Russell Avedis, Family Attorney on Jun 17, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I highly endorse this lawyer. Very intelligent, professional, calm, excellent negotiator and speaker, fair and honest.

    Christelle Beck, Child custody Attorney on May 18, 2012
    Relationship: Worked together on matter

    I endorse this lawyer. Culver is an excellent attorney with a keen mind for details. I have worked with him on several cases. He is heartfelt and does everything he can to assist his clients realize a realistic goal.

    W Franklin, Family Attorney on Mar 6, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    Culver is highly intelligent and seems to have a pretty high "emotional IQ" as well. He is very good at distinguishing the relevant from the irrelevant and I look forward to working more closely with him in the future.

    Robert Sirianni, Family Attorney on Feb 26, 2012
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Culver's legal acumen is second to none. He practices with professionalism and advocates for his clients. He serves clients with a profound sense of commitment. I can recommend Culver as an attorney with many talents to tackle complex legal issues facing clients.

    Lynn Landis-Brown, Divorce and separation Attorney on Feb 8, 2012
    Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

    I have found Culver to be a strong advocate for his clients , while at the same time demonstrating a professional demeanor and integrity that make me feel confident in endorsing this lawyer.

    Howard Lewis, Divorce and separation Attorney on Nov 25, 2011
    Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

    I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Van Der Jagt is one of the best attorneys in Colorado. He is a strong and zealous advocate for his clients and a credit to the legal profession. Whenever we have matters in Colorado or clients to refer he is the first one we call.

    Joanna Gustafson, Family Attorney on Nov 9, 2011
    Relationship: Worked for lawyer

    I highly recommend Culver. He is an attorney who is well-versed in the area of family law. I have witnessed firsthand this attorney's work ethic and devotion to his clients. He is an attorney who will work tirelessly to gain the desired result. He is extremely intelligent, professional, honest, and full of integrity. If you are having a family law issue of any kind, this is the lawyer for you.

    Cost

    RATES
    • Hourly Rates $150-$295/hour
    • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs30 minutes
    OTHER BILLING TYPES
    • Retainer Some attorneys require an upfront payment to secure their services before they begin their work.Sometimes
    PAYMENT METHODS

    Cash, Check, Credit Card