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

“I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of a reliable and compassionate family law attorney”
I had an exceptional experience with this Family Law Attorney of CHM. They handled my child support litigation, contested divorce, and custody & visitation rights with utmost professionalism and expertise. Their guidance through the divorce litigation process was invaluable, and they were incredibly thorough with the modification of court orders. They also assisted me with paternity establishment and drafting a prenuptial agreement, which gave me great peace of mind. The attorney’s approach to property division and spousal support & alimony litigation was fair and meticulous. They were also very supportive during the restraining order litigation, ensuring my safety and well-being. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of a reliable and compassionate family law attorney.
Alicia Cisneros - Google Review

“We are very grateful for all of his assistance”
Because I was accused of felony DUI, we recruited David Maletta. The case was dropped to a misdemeanor DUI because of David Maletta’s excellent work. David Maletta went above and beyond to significantly improve a terrible situation because he genuinely cared about the case’s result. We are very grateful for all of his assistance. I would strongly suggest David Maletta to anyone facing a DUI offense.
Precilla - Avvo Review

“I actually interviewed 5 potential lawyers and David was the most optimistic of all of them.”
I have nothing but good things to say about my experience working with David Maletta. I was in a very high stress situation facing a pending dui charge. He doesn’t know this but I actually interviewed 5 potential lawyers and David was the most optimistic of all of them. He took over and handled everything, and now I don’t have to live with a dui. Thank you so much for everything! Highly recommend to anyone looking for legal help.
Lauren Koontz - Google Review

“He know’s how to get really good results”
I had an unfortunate DUI arrest a little over 3 months ago. There were many DUI law firms I found online, and the reviews all seemed to be pretty good. What stood out to me about Timothy’s credentials though, was his sheer expertise in the field. After speaking with his firm during my initial consultation, it was clear to me they all took pride in fighting for their clients and achieved outstanding results. Everything was explained to me in great detail, in an honest and easy to understand way, and all my questions were answered thoroughly. Upon taking him on as my legal representation, he appeared for me in court so that I didn’t have to. Tim also called me periodically to keep me updated on my case. The outcome was a complete dismissal of my DUI case, along with a void of the license suspension which I did not think would ever happen. Those are amazing results… This is a very professional law firm, and Timothy know’s how to get really good results. I would definitely recommend him to anyone who wants somebody that’s truly on their side and will fight for them.
Jonathan - Avvo Review

“Very professional, and efficient and they are always here for you.”
Hands down the absolute best team you will ever work with. Throughout the entire process never had to worry about anything at all. Very professional, and efficient and they are always here for you.
Amina Riley - Google Review

“He brought me great success and left me with peace of mind”
This is an upstanding law firm with the highest level of character and integrity. My family law attorney, Henry, was very knowledgeable and wise. My situation was very complex with lots of moving parts and he expertly navigated everything from beginning to end. Henry is a great steward and never wasted a single hour of the time I paid him for. He also has a commanding presence in the courtroom. Henry is very discerning and will lead you through the most difficult situations with compassion and empathy. He brought me great success and left me with peace of mind when all that other attorneys had done for me is leave me with debt. I don’t usually leave reviews, but I’m telling you: please call Henry.
Christopher Burke - Google 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

“Their team exhibited the utmost professionalism and expertise throughout our legal matter”
Absolutely outstanding experience with Colburn Hintze Maletta PLLC! Their team exhibited the utmost professionalism and expertise throughout our legal matter. From the initial consultation to the resolution, they demonstrated a deep understanding of the law, provided clear and strategic advice, and were incredibly responsive to all of our concerns. Their dedication and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome truly set them apart. I highly recommend Colburn Hintze Maletta PLLC for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation. Five stars without a doubt!
Donald Hockenhull - Google Review

“Because of Darin I got my daughter back”
Before I hired Darin I went through a total of 3 different attorneys in two different states fighting a jurisdiction battle, when my daughter was taken to a different state. It was a very difficult decision to switch attorneys at one of the most difficult, time sensitive and important times in my case, but I’m very glad I did. Upon receiving my file from previous attorneys Darin came very familiar with my case quickly. Like other people have explained he took the time to lay everything out and explain how the process was going to proceed and what to expect and continued to do this as new issues arrived. He is also very quick at responding to emails and phone calls. My case was getting close to trial as told by my previous attorneys, I did not want to go to trial as I know this is very costly (most attorneys will convince you that you need to.) Darin knew my situation, fought for what was right and got the results I wanted while avoiding a costly trial. He is extremely knowledgeable in the Child Support Guidelines as well. Because of Darin I got my daughter back. I would highly recommend him and would hire again for any future issues. Thanks Darin!
Chris - AVVO Review

“He was the most professional in dealing with this case”
Tim was most professional in dealing with this case. I know it was stressful for all waiting on doctors and getting the reports. He was able to explain things to my husband even with him being highly frustrated. He kept us all informed. Thank you, Tim!
Neata - Avvo Review

“He was very kind and courteous”
Mr. David Maletta was very kind and courteous when he called me I explained my situation and he listened and then told me that I was fine. When I need a lawyer I will go through this firm and not be worried at all. Thank you again Mr. Maletta
Harold W Garlock Jr - Google Review

“She’s provided me with the best experience”
Juanita was outstanding throughout my whole process. She’s provided me with the best experience I could possibly have through the toughest times of my life. Her team is exceptional as well as very knowledgeable and caring firm!
Danelly Aleman- Google Review

“The best dou I could ask for”
Alysa m. Hudson and Jessica Hernandez were the best dou I could ask for and all the help from everyone else that was used on the legal team so many ppl helped bring everything needed together they had so much to deal with they handled everything like the champion team they are
Dyllan Burton - Google Review

“Outstanding Family Law Attorney Office”
Outstanding Family Law Attorney Office the team provided exceptional service during a difficult time. Their professionalism, empathy, and expertise in family law were evident from start to finish. They were always responsive and offered clear, practical advice that made navigating my case much easier. I highly recommend them for anyone in need of a trustworthy and skilled family law attorney.
Lisa Carranza - Google Review

“He is truly the best”
I was new to AZ, and Scottsdale, when I was driving to the airport to pick up a friend coming to visit for the weekend. I was pulled over for a very minor traffic violation, which turned into a very surprising DUI arrest. I have only had one speeding ticket ever in my life, and I’ve never driven drunk before. I was confused how any of this had happened. Of course, as someone who doesn’t have any law issues, I wanted to have the best in my case. Luckily, I found Tim who truly is the best. I asked him many questions throughout our time working together and was very uneasy about the entire situation. He answered my questions and remained calm throughout the months it took to go to court. I was found not guilty of the DUI charges, and it was all thanks to Tim. I couldn’t recommend him high enough, he handled everything perfectly.
Megan - Avvo Review

“I’m very grateful for them and will definitely be recommending them to everyone!”
This law firm was so easy to work with, I recently got myself into some trouble and needed a lawyer they were able to help out of a worse outcome. I’m very grateful for them and will definitely be recommending them to everyone!
Devilish Nikki - Google Review

“He gives sound advice and also what is in the best interest of the client”
Aside from being a genuinely nice person, David Maletta is an excellent lawyer. He gives sound advice and also what is in the best interest of the client. I highly recommend his services.
Robert Carolina - 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

“Truly reliable”
This company was nothing short of amazing and reliable, thank you to Time specifically for your service, they are highly recommended
Sierra Collins - Google Review

“He was the light at the end of a very dark tunnel!”
If I could give 100 stars I would. Henry is the best family lawyer around! He fought for me with everything he had and above all with compassion. My child support case has been lingering for almost 3 decades and Henry Alzate managed to get it dismissed and get justice. I highly recommend Henry when you feel there is no hope! He was the light at the end of a very dark tunnel! Bravo my friend! You are my hero!