Denver Child Support Attorney 

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 critical points of discussion during the divorce proceedings, and Colorado already has legal guidelines in place that can help you and your spouse anticipate the negotiation. It is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of these guidelines, which not only set the parameters for negotiations but also provide a foundation for legal arguments in court.

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;
• the 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 non-economic 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. Spousal support and child support matters often intersect, requiring a holistic approach to ensure fair outcomes. We provide insight into how the intersection of these two support systems can impact your financial planning and legal strategy, offering comprehensive advice to cover all potential scenarios.

Why Choose Curtis Law Firm for Your Child Support Needs?

When it comes to child support matters, having the right child support lawyer in Denver 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. We stand by you through every step of the legal process, equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate even the most complex support cases.

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. Our bilingual services also ensure that language is not a barrier, enabling us to serve a diverse community with the same commitment and excellence in representation.

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

FAQs About Child Support in Denver

How Is Child Support Calculated in Denver, Colorado?

Child support in Denver is calculated based on the Colorado Child Support Guidelines, which use an income-shares model. This model considers the combined monthly incomes of both parents and determines child support obligations proportionally. Factors such as the number of children, the time each parent spends with the children, and additional expenses like health insurance or educational costs are considered in the calculation. Each parent's financial responsibility is split in a manner that aims to maintain the children's standard of living as if the parents had not separated or divorced.

Understanding this process can be complex without legal assistance. At Curtis Law Firm, our attorneys can help clarify these calculations, ensuring all relevant factors are applied correctly to reflect your unique situation. We can also assist in presenting evidence and advocating for fair calculations that align with your family's needs. Our experience navigating Denver's local court systems allows us to anticipate potential challenges and strategically adjust our approach to best serve your interests.

What Should I Do If My Financial Situation Changes?

If your financial situation changes significantly, such as losing your job or experiencing a considerable change in income, it may justify a child support modification. Colorado courts are open to revisiting child support orders under these circumstances, but it requires a formal legal process. You'll need to file a motion that outlines the change and provides updated financial information as evidence of your new situation.

At Curtis Law Firm, we provide guidance on managing these transitions effectively. Our attorneys will aid in preparing the necessary legal documentation and representation to support your request for modification. We aim to ensure that any adjustments accurately reflect your current financial capabilities while still prioritizing the welfare of your children. Navigating this process with professional support can help you avoid delays and potential legal complications.

Can I Agree on an Amount Different from the Court's Calculation?

Yes, parents can mutually agree on a child support amount different from the court's guideline calculation, provided it meets the child's best interests. However, this agreement must be formalized and approved by the court to ensure it complies with Colorado law. Courts typically review such agreements to ensure fairness and adequacy for covering the child's needs, even if they fall outside the typical calculation framework.

At Curtis Law Firm, we can assist in facilitating these agreements, ensuring that all statutory requirements are met while meeting each party's preferences. Our legal team emphasizes open communication and mutual understanding, creating agreements that fulfill legal obligations and serve the child's emotional and financial needs effectively. We provide a comprehensive approach to managing these arrangements to facilitate court approval and long-term compliance.

What Are Common Misconceptions About Child Support?

Several misconceptions about child support can create confusion and conflict. One common misconception is that child support payments cover only basic needs. In reality, these payments often encompass a range of expenses, including education, healthcare, and sometimes extracurricular activities. Another misconception is that only non-custodial parents are responsible for child support when, legally, both parents are required to contribute financially.

Understanding these nuances is vital for managing expectations and responsibilities accurately. At Curtis Law Firm, we clarify these aspects for our clients, ensuring both parents are fully informed about their rights and obligations. This knowledge empowers them to participate more effectively in the child support process, ensuring fair outcomes for all involved.

How Can Curtis Law Firm Assist with Child Support Enforcement?

Enforcing child support orders is crucial when payments are not made promptly or in full. At Curtis Law Firm, we assist clients by taking appropriate legal actions to enforce court orders, which may include garnishing wages, seizing tax refunds, or pursuing contempt of court actions. Our detailed knowledge of Colorado laws enables us to execute these measures swiftly and effectively, minimizing disruption and ensuring compliance.

We are dedicated to protecting our clients' rights and the well-being of the children involved. Whether you are the paying parent facing financial difficulties or the receiving parent seeking enforcement of an existing order, our attorneys provide comprehensive support and representation throughout the enforcement process. By working closely with our clients, we strive to achieve timely resolutions while maintaining a focus on the child's best interests.

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