Denver Child Support Attorney

The Colorado Child Support Guidelines help determine the appropriate calculations of child support payments to be made. 

The child support guidelines consider several factors to make these calculations, including:

• monthly gross incomes of both parents (including any spousal alimony awarded to one parent);
• parenting time (including overnights) allocated to each parent;
• standard of living children would have enjoyed if the parents had not divorced;
• child-related expenses like health insurance, medical care, education, childcare, etc.;
• physical and emotional needs of children.

In most cases, child support payments will continue until the children reach the age of 19 or graduate high school, whichever occurs later. In situations involving adult children who cannot support themselves due to a physical or mental disability, child support payments may continue indefinitely.

Note that while child support is determined by the court based on the above guidelines, parents may make agreements for additional expenses, such as school fees, travel expenses, uncovered medical bills, and extras like auto insurance as kids get older. Child support payments are designed to cover the basic needs of children, but there may naturally be other expenses, and parents may need to divide these separately to ensure shared financial responsibility.

Modifying Child Support in Colorado

Once a child support order has been established, it is important to understand that circumstances can change over time. If you or the other parent experiences a significant change in income, job loss, or other life events, it may be necessary to seek a modification of the child support order. Our experienced Denver child support attorneys can help you navigate the process of modifying a child support order to ensure that it accurately reflects your current financial situation.

Reasons for seeking child support modification may include:

• the child has emancipated (left home) and is no longer living with the person receiving payment;
• either parent’s income has changed;
• Loss of employment
• Change in custody arrangements
• Healthcare or medical expenses for the child
• the costs of raising the child have changed (healthcare costs or day-care expenses);
• the number of overnight visits the child has with the other parent has changed; or

A formal change request needs to be written in a Motion to be filed and submitted to the Court. The Colorado Court will expect to review updated financial information, so income must provide income documentation. Our experienced child support attorneys will guide you through this complicated experience and tell you what changes in child support you can expect based on your changed circumstances. The process usually takes up to 6 months for the Motion to be filed, mandatory mediation to be attended, and a final hearing if no resolution succeeds. 

Understanding Support Matters in Colorado Courts

One important divorce issue is how you will support yourself financially in the aftermath. Child support and spousal support will be a critical point of discussion during the divorce proceedings, and Colorado already has legal guidelines in place that can help you and your spouse anticipate the negotiation.

The Colorado Child Support Guidelines are in place to help calculate the child support payments to be made. The guidelines will examine:

• monthly gross incomes of both parents (including any spousal alimony awarded to one parent);
• the financial resources of both the custodial and noncustodial parent;
• parenting time (including overnights) allocated to each parent;
• standard of living children would have enjoyed if the parents had not divorced;
• child-related expenses like health insurance, medical care, education, childcare, etc.;
• physical and emotional needs of children.

Similarly, to determine whether a parent is eligible for alimony, the court may consider the following:

• each spouse's financial resources, including potential income from separate or marital property;
• the paying spouse's ability to meet each spouse's financial needs;
• the spouse's lifestyle during the marriage; the distribution of marital property, including whether additional marital property may be awarded to reduce or alleviate the need for maintenance;
• both parties' income, employment, and employability, obtainable through reasonable diligence and additional training or education;
• whether one party has historically earned higher or lower income than the income reflected at the time of permanent orders and the duration and consistency of income from overtime or secondary employment;
• the length of the marriage;
• age & health of the parties;
• monetary and noneconomic contribution to the marriage;
• whether there is a need by either party for monetary assistance to preserve their financial state in the future;
• whether or not the maintenance is deductible for federal income tax purposes
• any other relevant factors.

The court will also examine whether the spouses fall under one of two categories – their combined gross income is $240,000 or less annually or more than $240,000 annually – to proceed with the calculations. Learn more about the specific steps for calculation on our Alimony page.

Why Choose Curtis Law Firm for Your Child Support Needs?

When it comes to child support matters, having the right legal representation can make all the difference. At Curtis Law Firm, we understand that every family's situation is unique, and we are dedicated to providing personalized solutions tailored to your specific circumstances. Our experienced team is committed to advocating for your rights while ensuring the best interests of your child are prioritized.

Here are a few reasons why clients in Englewood and the surrounding areas trust us with their child support cases:

• Expertise in Local Laws: Our attorneys are well-versed in Colorado child support laws and regulations, ensuring you receive accurate guidance and representation.
• Compassionate Support: We recognize the emotional challenges that come with child support disputes. Our team provides compassionate support and clear communication throughout the process.
• Proven Track Record: With numerous successful cases under our belt, we have a reputation for achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
• Comprehensive Approach: We don’t just focus on the legal aspects; we consider the broader implications for your family, helping you make informed decisions.

Choosing Curtis Law Firm means choosing a partner who is invested in your family’s future. Let us help you navigate the complexities of child support with confidence.

Schedule an initial consultation with our Denver child support lawyer to learn about what you need to know for your proceeding. Give us a call at (720) 408-7726 or contact us online.