Family Law | Mediation | Collaborative Law | Alternative Dispute Resolution | Estate Planning
Biography
Joshua (Josh) C. Sauer is a seasoned family law attorney with more than two decades of experience guiding clients through some of the most difficult and high-stakes moments of their lives. Since 2003, he has represented individuals in complex and emotionally charged domestic relations matters, including contested divorce, parenting disputes, and post-decree litigation.
Josh joined Harrington Brewster Mahoney Smits, P.C. in 2023 as of counsel, where he continues to build on a practice focused on strategic advocacy and effective resolution. He is known for striking the right balance: pursuing efficient, negotiated outcomes whenever possible, while being fully prepared to litigate aggressively when necessary to protect his clients’ interests.
Clients turn to Josh for his steady, practical approach in high-conflict situations. He understands that family law cases are not just legal disputes—they are deeply personal transitions that affect every aspect of a client’s life, especially their children. Josh works to reduce unnecessary conflict and keep cases focused on what matters most, without ever losing sight of his clients’ goals. When resolution outside the courtroom is not achievable, he brings extensive litigation experience and a track record of success in handling complex and contentious cases.
Over the course of his career, Josh has represented hundreds of clients, helping them navigate uncertainty with clarity and confidence. His approach is simple and effective: listen carefully, develop a clear strategy, and advocate for each client’s objectives as if they were his own. Clients consistently note his ability to explain the process in plain terms and the reassurance they feel knowing they have a strong and committed advocate on their side.
In addition to representing clients, Josh serves as a neutral in family law matters. He is available as a mediator, arbitrator, and as a Parenting Coordinator/Decision-Maker, helping parties resolve disputes efficiently and minimize the long-term impact of litigation on families and children. In this role, he consistently reinforces the importance of shielding children from parental conflict and keeping them out of adult disputes, recognizing that their well-being must remain the central priority.
A Colorado native, Josh was born in Fort Collins and raised on a family farm outside Loveland. His upbringing instilled a strong work ethic, resilience, and a practical mindset that continues to shape his approach to law. Growing up in a close-knit family with three brothers and a sister also influenced his decision to practice family law and his commitment to helping clients move forward with stability and purpose. Josh believes that while divorce is difficult, it can also be a turning point—one that allows families to rebuild in a way that supports healthy, thriving environments for their children.
Education
- University of Colorado School of Law, Boulder, Colorado
- J.D. - 2003
- University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming
- B.S. - 2000
Bar Admissions
- Colorado, 2003
- U.S. District Court District of Colorado, 2005
Professional Associations
- Colorado Bar Association, Family Law Section
- Denver County Bar Association
- Metro Denver Interdisciplinary Committee
- Colorado Bar Association Legal Fee Arbitration Committee
Certifications
- 40 Hour Mediation Training, Mares-Dixon & Associates
- Advanced Mediation Training, Mares-Dixon & Associates


