team-member

Shawn Smith

N/A

Licensed for 31 years

Law Degree

Awards

Primary Practice Area

Child custody

Language

English

About

Barbara (Lunt) Ornelas has been practicing family law in Larimer County for nearly 30 years. Barb graduated from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley with a 4.0 grade point average, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. She attended the University of Denver - College of Law while raising her three sons, who were 2, 4 and 5 when she started law school. Barb has diversified her knowledge and experience by completing mediation training and interdisciplinary training as a Colorado Collaborative Family Lawyer. In order to maintain and build on her knowledge base, Barb attends the Family Law Institute annually as well as other continuing legal education classes. The Family Law Institute is an interdisciplinary multiple-day seminar where mental health professionals, lawyers and judges convene to learn the most up-to-date laws and mental health issues impacting families today. Barb has managed numerous businesses from medical clinics to restaurants, from freight brokerages and trucking companies to water treatment companies. Her business experience combined with her education made her a natural for complex property cases. Her intrinsic love of people makes her a natural for "kid cases," a strong advocate for the oppressed, and a natural negotiator. The law firm of Lunt, Smith & Associates, LLP, handles exclusively family law cases! Our firm is committed to providing you with the best legal representation available for complex property issues, International Child Abduction, divorce, child parental responsibility (custody), parenting time (visitation), maintenance (alimony), and child support issues. Taking the right approach makes all the difference in the world . . .After years of practicing exclusively family law, Barbara (Lunt) Ornelas is familiar with how to approach your case. She has a sensible, diversified approach to cases. She brings to the table nearly 30 years experience of representing both men and women, so she is familiar with both the male and female perspectives. Her philosophy and the way she approaches cases is to try very hard to reach agreements. The truth of the matter is that any time you put the decision in the hands of a third party (like a judge), you never know for sure what’s going to happen . . . so generally, it is best to reach a fair resolution of your issues. But if resolution of your family law dispute is not possible, she is ready, willing, and able to provide you with the most assertive representation possible. She pridesherself on her detail-oriented trial preparation and professional representation of you. She speaks plain English.She wants you to understand the legal aspects of the divorce, custody or other situation you may find yourself in, so she speaks plain English. If you can’t understand your attorney, what good is she? Also, it is important to us that you are not intimidated nor scared to talk to her. You need to be able to speak freely to whomever you choose to represent you.  She is down-to-earth and approachable. Honesty is the best policy!She doesn't pull any punches with you. She strongly believes that you benefit by knowing the truth and what to expect given your individual circumstances. She empowers you by informing you of your options and helping you to make choices that are best for you and your family. So what are your options now?If you are in circumstances where you just need information, she is more than happy to talk to you on the telephone or to schedule you for an initial consultation. She offers no-stone-unturned representation for International Child Abduction cases, large asset and complex cases. Choose the firm that cares . . .There are two ways to handle family law cases: go through the motions, divide the property and the kids, and get the court order OR relieve your client of his or her stress, assist your client in caring for your client’s children and needs, help educate your client, assist him or her in making sound decisions about their options, empathize with his or her situation, be a strong advocate for your client, and make a positive impact in a difficult situation . . . by truly caring about him or her. I care about our clients, not just because I should . . . but because it’s who I am . . .

Practices Areas

Child custody

Divorce and separation

Family

Language

English

Contact

155 East Boardwalk DriveSte. 400Fort Collins, CO, 80525

Office: N/A

Website: N/A

Reviews

Ian
April 1, 2016

I cannot speak highly enough of Barbara and her team. This was a highly stressful experience and I consider myself to be incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Barbara. She expertly guided me through the process and helped to find a path that ultimately got to a conclusion that was appropriate. I always considered that Barbara had my best interests at heart and was candid and concise in her guidance and feedback. I would never consider working with anyone other than Barbara and her team moving forward.

Shane
January 31, 2014

Back in 2003 I had a case where I was being alienated from my child and had not seen him for two years. I had three different lawyers and seemed to get nowhere. The frustration and loss was overwhelming. I was fortunate to find Mrs. Lunt and everything changed. I now have my child full time and have a great relationship. I know everyone's case is different. The biggest difference was with Mrs. Lunt she was sincere, just taking with her you get a since that she cares about her clients and is very knowledgeable and has a passion for what she believes in. I recommend her and actually just call her office and find out for your self. I recently needed her services again and she was again very helpful. The best part it's been ten years and the receptionist remembered me and so did Mrs. Lunt. I thank you for the exceptional service and you are five stars in my book. Sincerely Shane

Paula
January 30, 2014

Barb is an incredible lawyer. She was knowledgeable concerning all aspects of my complicated case. She was supportive emotionally when I needed it. She helped me to save on fees whenever possible. She is extremely professional in her presentation in court, during depositions, etc. I would recommend her to anyone needing legal representation for domestic relation cases.

Kristi
January 30, 2014

Barb was an absolutely fantastic lawyer. She was very quick to respond to my emails and my phone calls. She was very upfront and honest with me about options and situations concerning my case. She always asked me what I wanted done in the case and never said or did anything that I did not approve of. Barb was also very knowledgeable about the laws and court systems. She put my mind at ease about the very stressful situation I was going through.

Terri
September 2, 2013

During a very emotional and difficult divorce, Barb was the level headed, knowledgeable and professional representative I needed. Faced with some interesting challenges, she handled my case with compassion and the utmost respect of privacy. Her understanding of the law helped resolve potential issues and conflicts and her guidance helped lessen the stress and burden of humiliation I could have suffered. Professional in every approach, Barb encouraged me to to have confidence in the legal system and to trust her judgment. In the end, she not only helped negotiate a successful agreement that was most beneficial for me and my daughter, but we forged a friendship I am grateful for. Since our initial meeting and working relationship, Barb has continued to take interest in my family and offer support as a friend. It's not everyday that you meet someone you can trust with your case, but Barb is an acception. I have recommended her services to others and will continue to do so.

anonymous
June 11, 2013

I have had more than my share of "lawyers" - Barb has been the light at the end of my tunnel, even when there "appears" to be no end in sight. Barb is the attorney that is really on my (your) side. I sleep better, have better weekends, and never go more than a day or two without understanding exactly where my case is. Barb returns phone calls (or has them returned by her assistant). Barb understands my history, and completed many of my sentences, before I even completed my thoughts (just because - SHE GETS IT). She's fair, she's knowledgable, she's SURE, she's interested, she's diligent, she's a REAL lawyer. I've never had occassion to "second-guess" her, because I've always been clear on the road ahead; never a question unanswered or answer made without consideration of the end in mind. My mind is at ease...she's highly regarded by other attorneys (just ask your present attorney, or the next attorney you encounter). I've talked to some of the "best" (per their peers in Larimer County), and when I mention her name (Barb Lunt Ornelas); each and EVERY one has said to me....."YOU ARE IN GOOD HANDS....!"

Judy
February 2, 2013

I would ( and already have) referred my friends to Barb. During my divorce she was very supportive, emotionally and professionally. When I met Barb I was very bruised and battered. Not where I thought I'd be in my life. She assured me that she could help me through this horrible time in my life. I asked her to be fair, diligent and to work with integrity. She didn't let me down. I trusted her to know the law and my rights, because I didn't. She works with a respectful attitude toward the other spouse's attorney. But believe me, she also knows when and how to step up, and not let her clients rights be trampled on. She also prayed with me, before several joint meetings with my husband. That alone gave me peace, strength, and confidence that she was the perfect lawyer for me. I also want to give thanks for Michelle, Barb's secretary. Her kind and encouraging words helped me through many a dark day. So thanks Barb for your expertise, your strength and caring in my case. I feel everything went as it was intended to be. I can get on with my life and know there are better days to come.

anonymous
January 30, 2013

Ms. Ornelas was able to explain to me what my rights were going through the divorce. She was able to keep me realistic to decisions that had to be made. She was fair and knowledgable about the law. She cared about me and my case, and put me and my child on a level of importance. She was kind and listened, really listened to me. She is honerable and a valuable lawyer to have on your side.

Ian
April 1, 2016

I cannot speak highly enough of Barbara and her team. This was a highly stressful experience and I consider myself to be incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Barbara. She expertly guided me through the process and helped to find a path that ultimately got to a conclusion that was appropriate. I always considered that Barbara had my best interests at heart and was candid and concise in her guidance and feedback. I would never consider working with anyone other than Barbara and her team moving forward.

Shane
January 31, 2014

Back in 2003 I had a case where I was being alienated from my child and had not seen him for two years. I had three different lawyers and seemed to get nowhere. The frustration and loss was overwhelming. I was fortunate to find Mrs. Lunt and everything changed. I now have my child full time and have a great relationship. I know everyone's case is different. The biggest difference was with Mrs. Lunt she was sincere, just taking with her you get a since that she cares about her clients and is very knowledgeable and has a passion for what she believes in. I recommend her and actually just call her office and find out for your self. I recently needed her services again and she was again very helpful. The best part it's been ten years and the receptionist remembered me and so did Mrs. Lunt. I thank you for the exceptional service and you are five stars in my book. Sincerely Shane

Paula
January 30, 2014

Barb is an incredible lawyer. She was knowledgeable concerning all aspects of my complicated case. She was supportive emotionally when I needed it. She helped me to save on fees whenever possible. She is extremely professional in her presentation in court, during depositions, etc. I would recommend her to anyone needing legal representation for domestic relation cases.

Kristi
January 30, 2014

Barb was an absolutely fantastic lawyer. She was very quick to respond to my emails and my phone calls. She was very upfront and honest with me about options and situations concerning my case. She always asked me what I wanted done in the case and never said or did anything that I did not approve of. Barb was also very knowledgeable about the laws and court systems. She put my mind at ease about the very stressful situation I was going through.

Terri
September 2, 2013

During a very emotional and difficult divorce, Barb was the level headed, knowledgeable and professional representative I needed. Faced with some interesting challenges, she handled my case with compassion and the utmost respect of privacy. Her understanding of the law helped resolve potential issues and conflicts and her guidance helped lessen the stress and burden of humiliation I could have suffered. Professional in every approach, Barb encouraged me to to have confidence in the legal system and to trust her judgment. In the end, she not only helped negotiate a successful agreement that was most beneficial for me and my daughter, but we forged a friendship I am grateful for. Since our initial meeting and working relationship, Barb has continued to take interest in my family and offer support as a friend. It's not everyday that you meet someone you can trust with your case, but Barb is an acception. I have recommended her services to others and will continue to do so.

anonymous
June 11, 2013

I have had more than my share of "lawyers" - Barb has been the light at the end of my tunnel, even when there "appears" to be no end in sight. Barb is the attorney that is really on my (your) side. I sleep better, have better weekends, and never go more than a day or two without understanding exactly where my case is. Barb returns phone calls (or has them returned by her assistant). Barb understands my history, and completed many of my sentences, before I even completed my thoughts (just because - SHE GETS IT). She's fair, she's knowledgable, she's SURE, she's interested, she's diligent, she's a REAL lawyer. I've never had occassion to "second-guess" her, because I've always been clear on the road ahead; never a question unanswered or answer made without consideration of the end in mind. My mind is at ease...she's highly regarded by other attorneys (just ask your present attorney, or the next attorney you encounter). I've talked to some of the "best" (per their peers in Larimer County), and when I mention her name (Barb Lunt Ornelas); each and EVERY one has said to me....."YOU ARE IN GOOD HANDS....!"

Judy
February 2, 2013

I would ( and already have) referred my friends to Barb. During my divorce she was very supportive, emotionally and professionally. When I met Barb I was very bruised and battered. Not where I thought I'd be in my life. She assured me that she could help me through this horrible time in my life. I asked her to be fair, diligent and to work with integrity. She didn't let me down. I trusted her to know the law and my rights, because I didn't. She works with a respectful attitude toward the other spouse's attorney. But believe me, she also knows when and how to step up, and not let her clients rights be trampled on. She also prayed with me, before several joint meetings with my husband. That alone gave me peace, strength, and confidence that she was the perfect lawyer for me. I also want to give thanks for Michelle, Barb's secretary. Her kind and encouraging words helped me through many a dark day. So thanks Barb for your expertise, your strength and caring in my case. I feel everything went as it was intended to be. I can get on with my life and know there are better days to come.

anonymous
January 30, 2013

Ms. Ornelas was able to explain to me what my rights were going through the divorce. She was able to keep me realistic to decisions that had to be made. She was fair and knowledgable about the law. She cared about me and my case, and put me and my child on a level of importance. She was kind and listened, really listened to me. She is honerable and a valuable lawyer to have on your side.

Ian
April 1, 2016

I cannot speak highly enough of Barbara and her team. This was a highly stressful experience and I consider myself to be incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Barbara. She expertly guided me through the process and helped to find a path that ultimately got to a conclusion that was appropriate. I always considered that Barbara had my best interests at heart and was candid and concise in her guidance and feedback. I would never consider working with anyone other than Barbara and her team moving forward.

Shane
January 31, 2014

Back in 2003 I had a case where I was being alienated from my child and had not seen him for two years. I had three different lawyers and seemed to get nowhere. The frustration and loss was overwhelming. I was fortunate to find Mrs. Lunt and everything changed. I now have my child full time and have a great relationship. I know everyone's case is different. The biggest difference was with Mrs. Lunt she was sincere, just taking with her you get a since that she cares about her clients and is very knowledgeable and has a passion for what she believes in. I recommend her and actually just call her office and find out for your self. I recently needed her services again and she was again very helpful. The best part it's been ten years and the receptionist remembered me and so did Mrs. Lunt. I thank you for the exceptional service and you are five stars in my book. Sincerely Shane

Paula
January 30, 2014

Barb is an incredible lawyer. She was knowledgeable concerning all aspects of my complicated case. She was supportive emotionally when I needed it. She helped me to save on fees whenever possible. She is extremely professional in her presentation in court, during depositions, etc. I would recommend her to anyone needing legal representation for domestic relation cases.

Kristi
January 30, 2014

Barb was an absolutely fantastic lawyer. She was very quick to respond to my emails and my phone calls. She was very upfront and honest with me about options and situations concerning my case. She always asked me what I wanted done in the case and never said or did anything that I did not approve of. Barb was also very knowledgeable about the laws and court systems. She put my mind at ease about the very stressful situation I was going through.

Terri
September 2, 2013

During a very emotional and difficult divorce, Barb was the level headed, knowledgeable and professional representative I needed. Faced with some interesting challenges, she handled my case with compassion and the utmost respect of privacy. Her understanding of the law helped resolve potential issues and conflicts and her guidance helped lessen the stress and burden of humiliation I could have suffered. Professional in every approach, Barb encouraged me to to have confidence in the legal system and to trust her judgment. In the end, she not only helped negotiate a successful agreement that was most beneficial for me and my daughter, but we forged a friendship I am grateful for. Since our initial meeting and working relationship, Barb has continued to take interest in my family and offer support as a friend. It's not everyday that you meet someone you can trust with your case, but Barb is an acception. I have recommended her services to others and will continue to do so.

anonymous
June 11, 2013

I have had more than my share of "lawyers" - Barb has been the light at the end of my tunnel, even when there "appears" to be no end in sight. Barb is the attorney that is really on my (your) side. I sleep better, have better weekends, and never go more than a day or two without understanding exactly where my case is. Barb returns phone calls (or has them returned by her assistant). Barb understands my history, and completed many of my sentences, before I even completed my thoughts (just because - SHE GETS IT). She's fair, she's knowledgable, she's SURE, she's interested, she's diligent, she's a REAL lawyer. I've never had occassion to "second-guess" her, because I've always been clear on the road ahead; never a question unanswered or answer made without consideration of the end in mind. My mind is at ease...she's highly regarded by other attorneys (just ask your present attorney, or the next attorney you encounter). I've talked to some of the "best" (per their peers in Larimer County), and when I mention her name (Barb Lunt Ornelas); each and EVERY one has said to me....."YOU ARE IN GOOD HANDS....!"

Judy
February 2, 2013

I would ( and already have) referred my friends to Barb. During my divorce she was very supportive, emotionally and professionally. When I met Barb I was very bruised and battered. Not where I thought I'd be in my life. She assured me that she could help me through this horrible time in my life. I asked her to be fair, diligent and to work with integrity. She didn't let me down. I trusted her to know the law and my rights, because I didn't. She works with a respectful attitude toward the other spouse's attorney. But believe me, she also knows when and how to step up, and not let her clients rights be trampled on. She also prayed with me, before several joint meetings with my husband. That alone gave me peace, strength, and confidence that she was the perfect lawyer for me. I also want to give thanks for Michelle, Barb's secretary. Her kind and encouraging words helped me through many a dark day. So thanks Barb for your expertise, your strength and caring in my case. I feel everything went as it was intended to be. I can get on with my life and know there are better days to come.

anonymous
January 30, 2013

Ms. Ornelas was able to explain to me what my rights were going through the divorce. She was able to keep me realistic to decisions that had to be made. She was fair and knowledgable about the law. She cared about me and my case, and put me and my child on a level of importance. She was kind and listened, really listened to me. She is honerable and a valuable lawyer to have on your side.

Ian
April 1, 2016

I cannot speak highly enough of Barbara and her team. This was a highly stressful experience and I consider myself to be incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Barbara. She expertly guided me through the process and helped to find a path that ultimately got to a conclusion that was appropriate. I always considered that Barbara had my best interests at heart and was candid and concise in her guidance and feedback. I would never consider working with anyone other than Barbara and her team moving forward.

Shane
January 31, 2014

Back in 2003 I had a case where I was being alienated from my child and had not seen him for two years. I had three different lawyers and seemed to get nowhere. The frustration and loss was overwhelming. I was fortunate to find Mrs. Lunt and everything changed. I now have my child full time and have a great relationship. I know everyone's case is different. The biggest difference was with Mrs. Lunt she was sincere, just taking with her you get a since that she cares about her clients and is very knowledgeable and has a passion for what she believes in. I recommend her and actually just call her office and find out for your self. I recently needed her services again and she was again very helpful. The best part it's been ten years and the receptionist remembered me and so did Mrs. Lunt. I thank you for the exceptional service and you are five stars in my book. Sincerely Shane

Paula
January 30, 2014

Barb is an incredible lawyer. She was knowledgeable concerning all aspects of my complicated case. She was supportive emotionally when I needed it. She helped me to save on fees whenever possible. She is extremely professional in her presentation in court, during depositions, etc. I would recommend her to anyone needing legal representation for domestic relation cases.

Kristi
January 30, 2014

Barb was an absolutely fantastic lawyer. She was very quick to respond to my emails and my phone calls. She was very upfront and honest with me about options and situations concerning my case. She always asked me what I wanted done in the case and never said or did anything that I did not approve of. Barb was also very knowledgeable about the laws and court systems. She put my mind at ease about the very stressful situation I was going through.

Terri
September 2, 2013

During a very emotional and difficult divorce, Barb was the level headed, knowledgeable and professional representative I needed. Faced with some interesting challenges, she handled my case with compassion and the utmost respect of privacy. Her understanding of the law helped resolve potential issues and conflicts and her guidance helped lessen the stress and burden of humiliation I could have suffered. Professional in every approach, Barb encouraged me to to have confidence in the legal system and to trust her judgment. In the end, she not only helped negotiate a successful agreement that was most beneficial for me and my daughter, but we forged a friendship I am grateful for. Since our initial meeting and working relationship, Barb has continued to take interest in my family and offer support as a friend. It's not everyday that you meet someone you can trust with your case, but Barb is an acception. I have recommended her services to others and will continue to do so.

anonymous
June 11, 2013

I have had more than my share of "lawyers" - Barb has been the light at the end of my tunnel, even when there "appears" to be no end in sight. Barb is the attorney that is really on my (your) side. I sleep better, have better weekends, and never go more than a day or two without understanding exactly where my case is. Barb returns phone calls (or has them returned by her assistant). Barb understands my history, and completed many of my sentences, before I even completed my thoughts (just because - SHE GETS IT). She's fair, she's knowledgable, she's SURE, she's interested, she's diligent, she's a REAL lawyer. I've never had occassion to "second-guess" her, because I've always been clear on the road ahead; never a question unanswered or answer made without consideration of the end in mind. My mind is at ease...she's highly regarded by other attorneys (just ask your present attorney, or the next attorney you encounter). I've talked to some of the "best" (per their peers in Larimer County), and when I mention her name (Barb Lunt Ornelas); each and EVERY one has said to me....."YOU ARE IN GOOD HANDS....!"

Judy
February 2, 2013

I would ( and already have) referred my friends to Barb. During my divorce she was very supportive, emotionally and professionally. When I met Barb I was very bruised and battered. Not where I thought I'd be in my life. She assured me that she could help me through this horrible time in my life. I asked her to be fair, diligent and to work with integrity. She didn't let me down. I trusted her to know the law and my rights, because I didn't. She works with a respectful attitude toward the other spouse's attorney. But believe me, she also knows when and how to step up, and not let her clients rights be trampled on. She also prayed with me, before several joint meetings with my husband. That alone gave me peace, strength, and confidence that she was the perfect lawyer for me. I also want to give thanks for Michelle, Barb's secretary. Her kind and encouraging words helped me through many a dark day. So thanks Barb for your expertise, your strength and caring in my case. I feel everything went as it was intended to be. I can get on with my life and know there are better days to come.

anonymous
January 30, 2013

Ms. Ornelas was able to explain to me what my rights were going through the divorce. She was able to keep me realistic to decisions that had to be made. She was fair and knowledgable about the law. She cared about me and my case, and put me and my child on a level of importance. She was kind and listened, really listened to me. She is honerable and a valuable lawyer to have on your side.