Family Law | Mediation | Collaborative Law | Alternative Dispute Resolution | Estate Planning
Biography
Alexandra (“Ali”) Smits is an experienced family law attorney known for her steady guidance and thoughtful approach during times of transition. She represents clients with discretion, clarity, and a deep appreciation for the personal and financial complexities that accompany family law matters.
Ali is trained in collaborative law and is committed to resolving disputes with intention and respect. She regularly guides clients through negotiation, mediation, and the collaborative process, helping them reach tailored, durable solutions while minimizing conflict. When litigation is necessary, Ali is an effective advocate with substantial trial experience, providing her clients with confident and strategic representation in the courtroom.
Before dedicating her practice exclusively to family law, Ali practiced employment law and criminal defense, experience that informs her well-rounded perspective and comfort in complex family law matters.
Clients value Ali for her calm presence, sound judgment, and ability to navigate complex situations with both strength and care. She is committed to helping individuals and families move forward with clarity, integrity, and a sense of control over their next chapter.
Education
- University of Denver Sturm College of Law, Denver, Colorado
- J.D. - 2001
- Law Journal, Denver Journal of International Law and Policy, Survey Editor
- London School of Economics
- M.A. - 1997
- University of California at Davis
- B.A. - 1996
Bar Admissions
- Colorado, 2001
- U.S. District Court District of Colorado, 2002
Presentations and Publications
- “Marital Agreements: Interpretation and Enforcement in Domestic Relations and Probate Matters,” Domestic Relations and Probate Institute, Colorado Judicial/SCAO, June 4, 2025
- “Evidentiary Challenges in Family Law Litigation,” CBA Family Law Spring Update, May 22, 2022
- “Collaborative Law: Debunking the Myths - A Current Perspective on Adding the Collaborative Model to Your Toolbox,” CBA Family Law Institute, August 16, 2019
- “Dispute Resolution and Unbundled/Limited Scope Legal Representation – Challenges and Opportunities for ADR Practitioners,” CBA Annual ADR Conference, November 17, 2017
- "Standards for 3rd Parties in Domestic Relations Cases," CBA Family Law Section, May 19, 2017
- “Divorce Overview and Options,” Second Saturday Divorce Workshop, 2017-2018
- “Mediation and Collaborative Law,” Blue Iris Workshop 2015-2016
Professional Activities and Awards
- Colorado Super Lawyer, 2018-2026
- Martindale Hubbell AV Preeminent Attorney Rating
- AVVO Rating: 10
- Founding Member, Denver Source for Collaborative Divorce, 2016 – 2020
- Board of Directors, Metropolitan Denver Interdisciplinary Committee (MDIC), 2015 – 2019
- Board of Directors, Colorado Collaborative Divorce Professionals (CCDP), 2013 – 2015
Professional Associations and Memberships
- Colorado Bar Association, Family Law Section
- Colorado Collaborative Law Professionals, Board of Directors, 2014 to 2016
- Denver County Bar Association
- Metro Denver Interdisciplinary Committee, President, 2018 to 2019
Pro-Bono Activities
- Rocky Mountain Cancer Center
- Colorado chapter of the National MS Society
Certified Legal Specialties
- Collaborative Law, Levels 1 and 2
- 40 Hour Mediation Training, Mares-Dixon & Associates



