Colorado Child Support Laws
Overview
Proper representation is critical for any parent when going through a child custody case. While parents are allowed to create their own child support agreements, any agreement that deviates too far from the Colorado Child Support Guidelines will likely not receive court approval. This is just one reason why having an attorney with expertise in child support cases is critical.
The child support attorneys at Divorce Matters® are highly skilled in helping their clients navigate the more difficult aspects of child support proceedings.
How Child Support is Calculated
There are a variety of factors that are likely to affect the amount of child support a divorcing parent can expect to receive – or pay. In Colorado, child support is based on a strict and somewhat complicated statute that is designed to ensure every child of divorcing or separating parents receives full financial support from both of them. According to the Colorado Child Support Guidelines, the first step in calculating child support is to establish the gross monthly income of both parents. Gross income is the amount that someone brings home before any taxes and deductions. If one parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed, the judge may “assign” income to him or her. This often happens if it is clear to the court that the parent could be earning more than they actually are based on their experience and qualifications.
The second step of calculating child support in Colorado is establishing the number of overnights per year that each parent has with the child (or children). Generally speaking, the parent with fewer overnights can expect to have to pay child support to the other. A common exception to this general rule is if the parent with primary custody is a significantly higher income earner.
The third thing that a judge will consider in a child support case falls under the category of extraordinary and ongoing expenses. These expenses include things like medical insurance, daycare costs, extracurricular activities, travel, and the like. Per the Colorado Child Support Guidelines, the parent who pays these extra expenses is credited for them in the child support calculation formula.
Why Choose Divorce Matters?
The attorneys at divorce matters are experienced legal professionals who are well-versed in all aspects of child support calculation, along with myriad other divorce and child support-related issues. Divorce Matters is a Colorado-proud family law firm that has helped thousands of people just like you get a fresh start.
Every child support lawyer at Divorce Matters genuinely understands how difficult going through a divorce can be. We are aggressive and compassionate legal advocates who are devoted to achieving the best possible outcome for each client.
If you are curious to know what your monthly child support payments might be, we encourage you to download our very own Child Support Calculator App. Simply input your personal financial information along with the financial information of your co-parent and the app will provide a close approximation of what your child support payment will look like.
Contact Divorce Matters
To speak with a Colorado family law attorney about child support or any other family law topic, contact Divorce Matters today by filling out our online form or calling us at 720-679-7881.
