About WAG

Western Arbiter Group, LLC (WAG) was founded by the Hon. Richard T. Gurley (retired) to provide mediation, settlement conference, arbitration services and private trials in western Colorado on state court matters.   We are also available to provide these services via Zoom statewide.  These alternative dispute resolution services are provided to assist parties in the resolution of their legal claims minimizing the expense and delays associated with proceeding to trial. 

WAG provides private trials to litigants in domestic relations cases.  An unfortunate reality is that often domestic relations cases get bumped by judges because other cases have statutory priority over them. When I was a judge I dreaded having to tell parties that their trial was being “bumped,” which usually meant it would be scheduled months down the road. We have a quick and inexpensive solution.  

Many attorneys are unfamiliar with C.R.S. 13-3-111 and C.R.C.P. 122, which allow parties to file a Motion for the Appointment of a Private Judge to preside over their trial. The parties may, by agreement, request that a retired District Court judge preside over their trial. WAG has prepared all of the pleadings necessary for filing with the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court who has sole discretion to approve the motion.  The Clerk of the Supreme Court has advised WAG that these motions are usually approved within 14 days of their filing.

Do your clients want to wait several months to be divorced or would they rather have their case finalized quickly?  Contact WAG to discuss any other questions you might have about arranging for a private judge to hear your case.  WAG also guarantees written Final Orders or Oral Findings within 21 days of the conclusion of the trial.  

WAG provides its services exclusively in cases in Colorado’s state courts.