Glossary of Legal Terms & Definitions
- Negligence Failure to act in a way that a reasonable and prudent person would under similar circumstances.
- No-fault Divorce Arizona is a no-fault divorce state, meaning parties can get a divorce regardless of the cause and without fault assigned to either party.
- Nolo Contendere A term meaning “no contest.” In a criminal case, it has the same effect as pleading guilty, but is not considered an admission of guilt, rather the defendant does not wish to contest the charges.
- Non-custodial Parent A child’s parent that has no legal custody of them or is not the primary caretaker.
- Notary Public A state authorized person who can administer oaths or certify documents.
- Notice of Appearance A written document filed with the court informing the other parties of their or their lawyers’ involvement in the case.
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What People Say
Client Testimonials

“The calm in the middle of my storm…”
I recently consulted with Darin after my wife filed for divorce. He was referred to me by a friend whom I very much trust. Darin was the antithesis of the first two attorneys I consulted (who were matter-of-fact and had very little empathy about the fact that I was struggling emotionally with what was transpiring). From the first few minutes of speaking with Darin, it was obvious that he was very knowledgeable and skilled with divorce and family matters. While that was most important to me, the thing that made the difference was his calming, logical, and empathetic approach. He took the time to listen and empathize with me. He took the time to understand what I wanted to achieve through this process and laid out my options. After the consultation, I knew he would be my attorney if I had to pull the trigger. I, ultimately, didn’t have to engage Darin’s services due to a reconciliation with my wife. I hope I never have to go through that process again. However, if I do, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt who I will be hiring to represent me…Darin R. Colburn. Darin, thank you for caring and being more than an attorney.
Frank - AVVO Review

“She is truly a phenomenal attorney”
Lauren handled my family law case. She is truly a phenomenal attorney. She is extremely knowledgeable about all laws. She is attentive and never missed a single detail. While working on my case, she was thorough and always kept in contact with me to keep me informed on the status of my case. She ensured our safety and achieved the absolute best possible outcome for my case. I would HIGHLY recommend her to anyone seeking a family law attorney. Lauren has the utmost integrity and she is a true asset to her profession.
Taylor fava- Google Review

“I appreciate everything more than they will ever know”
Both my attorney Judie Rettelle and paralegal Whitney Stricker made a very difficult situation in my life (a divorce with 2 young children involved) a bit easier with first and foremost, their kindness to me and patience with me. I appreciate everything more than they will ever know. They were also extremely knowledgeable on all fronts and extremely prompt and detailed with their communication. I function the same way, so that really helped a lot. Thank you both again for everything. No one wants to have to go through a divorce, but if it happens, you need someone you can trust and count on – CHM and Judie/Whitney specifically – are those people.
Jennifer kelley - Google Review

“His patience and professionalism are above reproach”
Don Colburn’s years of experience was a tremendous asset to my case. It truly showed that my process was lengthy and exhausting. His patience and professionalism are above reproach. Without Jen Bone, I truly feel my case would have gone in a very different direction. The time and energy she put into my case is something I am very thankful for. This law team understood my main focus was my children and they adhered to that focus for the entirety of my case. Thank you Jen and thank you Don!
Shayne Tuchfarber - Google Review

“He was very helpful and made my experience amazing”
My experience with CHM was great. Highly Recommend them for your services. Darin was very helpful and made my experience amazing.
Cassandra R - Google Review
“I highly recommend them for your legal needs”
It has been an absolute relief dealing with the legal issue with Colburn Hintze Maletta PLLC behind my case. I have dealt with other law firms in the past but there is no comparison. CHM Law firm has not only demonstrated the commitment they have made to me by addressing absolutely all my concerns, but they show a deep understanding of the law having achieved the best results in my case taking the heavy burden off of my shoulders. There is no question about it. I recommend CHM for your legal needs.
Isabelle M - Google Review

“She is a fierce advocate who will fight to protect you”
Lauren Bostick is an extremely skilled, competent, and compassionate attorney! She is a fierce advocate who will fight to protect you, your family, and your rights! I could not have picked a better attorney and highly recommend her for any family law matters. Her exceptional work deserves commendation.
jydiaz30 - Google Review

“He set the right expectations. I am happy with the outcome”
David communicated well and gave me upadates every step of the way answered all questions I had and made me feel comfortable with the process, and he set the right expectations. I am happy with the outcome.
Bailey - Avvo Review

“He walked me through every step with compassion”
My experience with Tim through my messy custody case was one that made me feel safe and understood when others wouldn’t. Tim walked me through every step with compassion, knowledge, and understanding. Thanks to Tim I have my son safe with me!!!
Hilario Serafin - Google Review

“He demonstrates a high level of confidence through his genuine attempt to do what is best for his client.”
To put my trust in someone to protect and defend me, who I never knew, was a tremendous leap to take. From the beginning of our interaction and throughout this process, Tim demonstrated credibility. He is methodical: and follows through on his initial commitment to turn over every stone. He is systematic: he plans and organizes his strategy, by not only following the rule of law but keeping me informed on outcomes and next steps in the process while providing objective, realistic advice. He is strategic: he directs his interrogations and arguments by reviewing data, and preparing for and adapting to circumstances within the trial. He demonstrates a high level of confidence through his genuine attempt to do what is best for his client.
Diane - Avvo Review

“Handled my divorce case better than I could have ever hoped for”
Darin Colburn handled my divorce case better than I could have ever hoped for. From the first time I met with him, he was knowledgeable, professional, and genuine. He isn’t in it to rack up bills, he’s in it to accomplish what’s in the best interest of the children/family involved. He was aggressive when needed and absolutely a killer negotiator.
Brrittney White - Google Review

“She was able to take my worries and fears off my shoulders”
There is not a single mother out there who is ever prepared for the phone call from the local police department. That phone call can change your life. I got into contact with Jessica Hernandez of Colburn Hintze and Maletta and she was able to take my worries and fears off my shoulders. She worked extremely hard to get the results that my son needed and got him released with probation. She was able to set my mind at ease and she continued to remind me that these actions of my son did not define the person he is. What a gift to have someone defend my child and at the same time not make me feel like I was judged as a bad parent or a failure. Thank you Jessica for taking him on and for never giving up on him. Thank you for being an amazing attorney and for always taking my questions.
Brandy Waldeck- Google Review

“The best legal counsel”
Huge Shoutout to Dave and Juanita for being the best legal counsel! From the moment they answered the phone they were very understanding and patient
Andrew Vazquez - Google Review

“Hands down the best attorney for family law!”
Darin is hands down the best attorney for family law! He made me feel heard and validated in my concerns for my daughter during this custody battle and was very up-front about what to expect and what was a likely outcome right off the bat. Communication was constant and timely, even when he couldn’t handle a concern or something going on with the case due to scheduling he pulled the entire firm in to help and get everything done! I’ve never experienced such a friendly, understanding, and caring manner from an attorney before so I will ALWAYS recommend this amazing law firm to anyone who needs it.
Kyla Dawnne- Google Review

“He helped me win a case that was not in my favor”
David was an amazing attorney when I needed someone to defend me with my speeding ticket. He helped me win a case that was not in my favor. He knows what he’s doing and takes his time with each case. He is so experienced and could probably help with just about any issue. 10/10 Recommend
Afton Maxner - Google Review

“I Can’t express my gratitude enough and how happy I am with his representation”
Complete stud! Can’t express my gratitude enough and how happy I am with Timothy’s representation. Most say to strike when the iron is hot, but Timothy knew how to play it smoothly, held back his cards, and showed them at the right time. Timothy is your man if you want REAL representation and someone who cares about their clients. He is upfront and walks you through the whole process. It takes time to explain what you’re up against and tells you what could be the outcome both ways. He was able to get my EXTREME DUI along with many other charges dropped down to reckless driving with NO JAIL TIME!!!! Huge victory when the prosecutor wouldn’t budge! I hope to never be in trouble again but if I am Timothy is my man!
Robert - Avvo Review

“They were incredible”
I cannot say enough good things about this place. I had them take care of a few different things for me and they were incredible. Everything was submitted quickly and it was so easy on my part. Jessica kept me updated every step of the way and was very thorough. David was great, he walked me through the process and gave me an estimate of how long the whole process would take. The best lawyer I’ve ever had. I will use them for anything I need in the future.
Luz Jimenez - Google Review

“They are extremely capable and have great instincts”
Two of the partners of this firm supported me in some very contentious divorce issues. Darin and Tim are extremely capable and have great instincts on how to navigate sticky circumstances in a professional manner in front of Judges and court administrators. I found them to be understanding, time efficient, and sufficiently assertive to win my cases. For any Family Law or Criminal Defense situations, I would endorse and highly recommend this firm.
Vern Braaksma- Google Review
“The process was smooth thank you”
Great law firm, don’t hesitate to come here, you feel safe, heard, and smoothly got divorced through them. The process was smooth thank you, Colburn Hintze Maletta!
Briana Ketzaly Christiansen - Google Review

“She was passionate and driven when managing my case”
Lauren Bostick assisted me with the child custody case. She was passionate and driven when managing my case. She thinks outside of the box and is determined to serve justice. Lauren and her teammates ensured I was given recourses to manage my case and my personal well-being. She is extremely knowledgeable and caring. I was honored to be represented by her. Due to her work ethic and perseverance, she was able to win my case and get me even more quality time with my son. I will be forever thankful for her help and her team.
