When two parents divorce or otherwise end their relationship, child support is one of the most important matters to be determined. In most cases in Colorado, when a child lives with one parent most of the time, the other parent is responsible for paying child support.
If you have questions or concerns regarding support for your child, contact the family law attorneys at CoakleyKrol today. We advise and represent parents in Denver and throughout the Front Range.
How Is The Amount Of Child Support Determined?
The amount of child support to be paid is generally based on Colorado's child support guidelines, which take into account a number of factors, including the parents' gross incomes and how much time the child spends with each parent.
Other factors may include the cost of medical care, education and extracurricular activities for the child.
Typically, child support in Colorado must be paid until the child turns 19, marries or enters the military. However, under special circumstances, the support obligation may be extended beyond those dates.
When Can Child Support Be Modified?
Child support determinations are based on the circumstances at the time the child support order is made. In life, though, family and financial circumstances can change.
If the change in circumstances is substantial and continuing, the court may grant a modification of child support to fit the new situation. For example, a major increase or decrease in income for either parent may be grounds for a child support modification.
In any case, parents responsible for child support should never simply stop paying. To modify an existing order, the appropriate legal steps need to be taken.
Likewise, if the paying parent falls behind in child support payments, the proper legal steps must be taken to enforce the child support order.
Contact A Denver Child Support Lawyer
To discuss your goals and concerns with an experienced family law attorney, contact CoakleyKrol via email or call us at 720-644-9956. Our firm is conveniently located in the Stapleton area of Denver.