When two parents are involved in divorce, Colorado courts echo family courts across the nation in pushing for a cooperative agreement on bringing up the children. If parents fail to agree on arrangements, Colorado courts will step in and decide issues of custody, visitation, and child support payments, all the while acting as an advocate for the best interests of the children. The following headings provide information on laws governing Colorado child custody and Colorado child support.
Colorado Child Custody:
In adjudicating child custody claims, Colorado courts will place lessening the emotional impact on children of divorcing parents above all else. If the parents cannot agree on a plan for custody, the courts will decide what is best for the children and will weigh heavily in consideration the willingness of one parent to encourage a relationship between the children and the other parent. Courts will also take into account any history of violence or abusive conduct of any parent.
Colorado Child Support:
In Colorado, child support is calculated by a formula that takes into consideration the income of both parents and the number of children. The court can consider unusual circumstances or situations of the parties. See the Colorado Child Support Worksheets for more information on the numeric factors considered.
Also, see Colorado Divorce Laws & Resources for child support enforcement resources.
Remember that a lawyer can help you evaluate and organize your responsibilities and rights as a divorced parent. A lawyer will also serve as your advocate and/or counsel during negotiations of a parenting agreement over childrearing after the divorce.