Denver Child Custody Attorneys Protecting Visitation and Overall Rights

Put Over 10+ Years of Experience in Child Custody Laws for Clients’ Parental Interests in Jefferson County, Douglas County, Arapahoe County, and Adams County

There are many challenging aspects to encounter during divorce proceedings in Denver, CO. Still, when it comes to child custody and visitation matters, the case can become genuinely contentious. 

It’s only natural for each parent to want to spend as much time as possible with children following divorce, and spouses can become understandably emotional at the possibility of losing time with children.

As a parent, you naturally want the best for your children, and the Colorado legal system agrees. Unfortunately, parents and courts may have different ideas about what is best for children. 

This is why it’s so important to understand the ins and outs of child custody. 

Our child custody lawyers at Curtis Law Firm have the expert advice and legal services you need to protect your legal parental responsibilities in your Denver child custody negotiation.

Schedule an initial consultation with our Denver child custody attorneys today. Call (720) 408-7726 or reach us online. Hablamos Español.

Types of Custody in Colorado

In Colorado, the courts refer to custody as "parental responsibility," which can be primary or joint. For example, if a parent has less than 90 overnight visits with the child, the other parent will have primary responsibilities as a parent. However, if both parents have an equal number of overnight stays, they will share their joint parental responsibilities.

Note that Colorado child custody laws recognize two categories of custody – parenting time (physical custody) and decision-making (legal custody), either of which can be sole or shared jointly. 

According to Colo. Rev. Stat. § 14-10-124 (b)(1), whether parents will share legal custody depends on:

• whether they can cooperate and make decisions jointly;
• whether the past pattern of the parents' involvement with the child encouraged a mutually supportive environment;
• whether the parents can work together to provide a positive and nourishing relationship with the child; and
• if any particular allocation of authority will be more likely to facilitate frequent contact between the child and both parents.

A Denver court will not typically order joint legal custody if one of the parents is abusive or neglectful.

Physical custody may similarly be joint if both parents are allowed relatively equal parenting time. (Note that the Colorado courts lean toward shared custody as a default, unless the child's best interests are not met in such an arrangement). Parents may propose a parenting plan to the court in a shared custody situation that outlines their preferred schedule for parenting time, including physical custody and visitation (below).

Older children may be allowed some input as to their preferences. If the court feels the parenting plan is in the children's best interests, it will be approved. If the court rejects the plan or the parents fail to provide one, the court will create a plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colorado a 50/50 Child Custody State?

Colorado is not a 50/50 child custody state. Instead, the state of Colorado decides parental responsibility in the child's best interests, with no speculation favoring a mother, a father, or equal time. 

At What Age Can a Child Decide Custody in Colorado?

The age a child can decide custody in Colorado is determined by a judge ruling in your custody case will take your child's best wishes into record when determining custody. 

Children between the ages of 12-14 will be given the chance to declare which parent they would prefer to live with essentially.

What is the minimum child support in Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, specific laws are in place to protect low-income families with children who are divorcing. The minimum monthly support will depend on the number of children involved and the specifics of the custody arrangement. In general, the minimum monthly child support obligation is $50 if there is only one child. This will increase based on the children involved in the custody arrangement. 

Is Colorado a Mom or Dad State?

Colorado is neither a “mom state” nor a “dad state” when deciding on child custody. Colorado law does not fall on either parent’s side but enables custody and parental responsibility to be equal between both parents.

Understanding the Impact of Child Custody Decisions

Child custody arrangements can have a profound impact on both children and parents. It's crucial to understand how these decisions affect your family's dynamics and the emotional well-being of your children. At Curtis Law Firm, we believe that informed clients make the best decisions for their families. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through the complexities of custody laws in Colorado, ensuring that you have all the information you need.

Here are some key factors to consider when navigating child custody:

• Child's Best Interests: Courts prioritize the well-being of the child above all else. Understanding what this means in your situation can help you advocate effectively.
• Co-Parenting Strategies: Effective communication and cooperation between parents can lead to more stable arrangements. We can help you develop a co-parenting plan that works.
• Changes in Circumstances: Life is unpredictable. If your situation changes, knowing how to modify custody arrangements is essential for maintaining a healthy family environment.
• Legal Representation: Having experienced legal support can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Our attorneys are here to represent your interests passionately and effectively.

By understanding these elements, you can make informed decisions that will benefit you and your child in the long run. 

Contact the Denver child custody attorneys at Curtis Law Firm today by calling (720) 408-7726 or reaching us online. Schedule a consultation to discuss your unique situation and explore the best options available for your family.