Child Support Lawyers in Denver
Empowering Families. Protecting Children.
Child support cases can be emotionally stressful and legally complex, particularly if you are not working with an experienced and compassionate attorney.
For over 30 years, Denver has turned to the family law team at Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C.—not only because of our reputation but because we care about our clients. Together, we will reach a fair resolution that considers your unique family dynamic, prioritizes your children's needs, and gives you peace of mind.
Whether you are facing challenges with custody arrangements, struggling with financial concerns, or need help with other family law-related matters, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today!
How We Help Denver Families
At Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C, we understand that every family situation is unique. That is why we offer comprehensive family law services custom-tailored to your specific circumstances and needs. When it comes to child support cases, our team offers:
- Expert legal advice: We will explain your rights and clarify your obligations under Colorado law, ensuring you reach a swift and fair resolution that serves the best interest of your child.
- Negotiation: When communication between former partners or spouses breaks down, our family law team steps in, negotiating on your behalf to secure an outcome that best suits your child.
- Document preparation: Don’t be overwhelmed by financial records and income statements. Whether you need to establish or modify a child support agreement, our legal team is here to help. We will ensure your paperwork is complete and filed correctly the first time.
- Court Representation: We strive to reach equitable agreements outside of court and are effective in doing so. However, when such agreements cannot be made through negotiation, we will advocate for you in court, ensuring your voice is heard and your child is protected.
- Modifications: Life is unpredictable, and circumstances change. When they do, we are here to help you petition the court for modifications to your child support order.
- Enforcement: When one parent fails to fulfill their child support duties, we step in. Our Colorado child support lawyers are here to ensure you and your child receive the support you are entitled to.
Understanding Colorado Child Support Guidelines
In our state, the courts follow a specific set of rules designed to make support awards fair and predictable.
The state calculates child support using a method called “income shares,” which means that children are entitled to a portion of each parent's income to ensure they're financially supported in the same way they were when their parents were together.
Here are the main factors the court considers when determining child support:
- Both parents’ income
- The standard of living the child would have had if the parents remained married
- How much time the child spends with each parent
- The child’s significant expenses, like daycare, private school, and health insurance
- Travel costs associated with the child's time spent with each parent
- The child’s medical needs
- The financial resources and needs of both parents
Typically, the obligation to pay child support ends when the child turns 19 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later. However, if a child has special needs that prevent them from becoming independent, child support may continue beyond this deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the amount of child support determined?
In Colorado, the courts typically determine this by considering the income of both parents, the number of children, and the custody arrangement. This approach attempts to replicate the amount of financial support the child would have received if the parents were living together. Our family law attorneys can help you understand how these guidelines apply to your situation and calculate the expected amount of support.
Can child support be modified?
Yes, if there is a significant change in circumstances. This might include a substantial change in either parent's income, a change in custody arrangements, or a change in the child's financial needs. To modify child support, the requesting parent must file a petition with the court, and the court must approve the change.
What happens if a parent fails to pay child support?
Our state does not take these issues lightly. Failure to pay child support could lead to garnished wages, suspension of licenses (including driver’s and professional licenses), the imposition of property liens, and even jail time. Needless to say, failure to uphold this important parental duty is a serious matter that can have significant legal consequences.
Does child support cover all expenses related to the child?
Child support is intended to cover the basic needs of the child, but it may not cover all expenses. Extraordinary expenses, such as medical treatments not covered by insurance, special educational needs, or extracurricular activities, may be handled separately. The parents may agree, or the court may order, that these costs be shared in addition to the regular child support payments. It's crucial to clearly outline how these additional expenses will be managed in the child support order or agreement.
How does co-parenting or shared custody impact child support payments?
In these situations, child support payments are still required to ensure that the child's financial needs are met in both households. However, the amount of support might be adjusted to account for the time the child spends with each parent. The calculation will take into account the incomes of both parents, the division of parenting time, and the expenses incurred by each parent for the child's needs. Our lawyers can help by carefully analyzing your shared custody arrangement and advocating for a child support order that reflects the true costs of raising your child in a fair and equitable manner.
Our Denver Child Support Lawyers Are Ready to Help
Whether you need to establish or modify child support payments, or circumstances require us to step in because a former partner or spouse is not fulfilling their duties, Jorgensen, Brownell & Pepin, P.C. is here to help. Do not feel like you must navigate these issues alone. Contact us today!
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