Colorado Child Custody and Support Guidelines

Colorado Child Custody and Support Guidelines:

Custody may be awarded to either parent based on the best interest of the child, and shall consider all relevant factors, including:

1. The wishes of the parents concerning parenting time.

2. The wishes of the child, if sufficiently mature to express reasoned preferences concerning the parenting arrangement.

3. The relationship of the child with his or her parents, siblings, and any other person who may significantly affect the child's best interests.

4. The child's adjustment to his or her home, school, and community.

5. The mental and physical health of all individuals involved.

6. The ability of the parents to encourage the sharing of love, affection, and contact between the child and the other parent.

7. Whether the past pattern of involvement of the parents with the child reflects a system of values, time commitment, and mutual support.

8. The physical distance of the parties to each other as this relates to the practical considerations of parenting time.

9. Evidence of spousal abuse, child abuse, or neglect by either parent.

10. The ability of each parent to place the needs of the child ahead of his or her own needs.

[Based on Colorado Revised Statutes 14-10-124]

Colorado uses the "Income Shares" model to determine child support. This method bases the level of support on the combined income of both parents. You can use the worksheets available at the Colorado Judicial Branch Child Support Guidelines to determine the level of support. Child support may continue until a child becomes emancipated, graduates from high school, or it may continue beyond the age of nineteen if the child is mentally or physically disabled. Support for post-secondary education of the child may be order on both the parents. [Based on Colorado Revised Statutes 14-10-115]