UIFSA provides guidance as to which state has jurisdiction over the modification of child support payments. The Act provides the basis for Colorado to exercise initial child support or maintenance jurisdiction, or to modify a prior order. The jurisdiction is based on whether the court has personal jurisdiction over the respondent (opposing party).
Once jurisdiction is established, venue focuses on where your case will be heard. Think of it as choosing the specific courtroom in the courthouse maze. While Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure dictate general venue rules, exceptions exist in family law:
Residence matters: Usually, you can file in the county where either party resides. If residing in different counties, the choice often falls to the first-filing party.
Child-centered cases: When children are involved, additional venue rules apply. For instance, custody matters can be filed in the county where the child has resided for the past 6 months.
Venue can be changed under certain circumstances, like agreement between parties or convenience due to witness location.
