Colorado Springs Child Support Lawyer

Colorado child support is often addressed during the divorce process or when unmarried parents end their relationship. Colorado Springs family courts follow guidelines to determine how much a non-custodial parent should be expected to pay in child support. Child support amounts may be calculated based on:

• The gross income of both parents
• The number of children
• The parenting time schedule
• Daycare expenses
• Health insurance costs

When you are ready to discuss your family case with trusted child support lawyers in Colorado Springs, contact us online or call (719) 212-4227 to schedule a free consultation. 

How Long Do Child Support Payments Last in Colorado?

Child support payments should extend until a child turns 19 years old in Colorado.

According to the Colorado statutes, 19 is the legal age of emancipation in the state. This law could be shortened or extend the time of child support payment for a parent with several exceptions, which are:

• if the child is still in high school, child support payments continue until a month after graduation;
• if the child drops out of high school and later re-enrolls, child support is required until a month after graduation, but not beyond age 21;
• if the child is physically or mentally disabled, child support may continue longer;
• if the child gets married in Colorado before the age of 19, he or she will be considered emancipated, meaning child support will no longer be mandatory (however, if the marriage ends, child support may be reinstated);
• if the children join the military before the age of 19, he or she will also be considered emancipated and therefore child support will end early.

What Is The Average Child Support Payment in Colorado?

In Colorado Springs, child support is a percentage of the combined gross income between both parents, which also depends on various factors. Roughly 20% of your income goes to 1 child and 10% for each additional child.

Understanding Child Support Modification in Colorado

Child support orders are not set in stone and can be modified under certain circumstances. If there has been a significant change in either parent's financial situation, such as a job loss, increase in income, or change in custody arrangements, it may be necessary to seek a modification of the child support order.

Factors that may warrant a child support modification include:

• Change in income for either parent
• Change in custody arrangements
• Medical or educational needs of the child
• Parenting time adjustments

It is important to seek legal guidance when considering a child support modification to ensure that the process is handled correctly and in compliance with Colorado state laws. Our Colorado Springs child support attorney can help you navigate the legal process of modifying child support and ensure that your child's best interests are protected.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Child Support Modification in Colorado?

You should hire a lawyer for child support modifications. If you are looking to reduce your child custody agreement, you must file a modification called Motion to Modify.

Before making the request for an adjustment on the existing child support order, you will need to provide additional information that may include tax returns, pay stubs, and other documents.

Common Issues with Child Support

Child support cases can involve a number of issues, from disagreements about the amount of support to the inability to enforce orders. Some of the most common issues that arise in Colorado child support cases include:

• Disputes Over the Amount of Child Support: Sometimes, one parent may feel that the amount of child support is too high or too low. If there are disagreements about the amount of support, a child support lawyer in Colorado Springs can help negotiate a fair amount based on the guidelines.
• Unemployment or Underemployment of the Paying Parent: If the parent responsible for paying child support is unemployed or underemployed, they may try to reduce the amount of support they are required to pay. In these situations, a Colorado Springs child support attorney can help you navigate the process of modifying the child support order or seeking enforcement.
• Failure to Pay Child Support: If a parent is not paying the required child support, there are legal options available to compel payment, including wage garnishment, property liens, or even jail time in some cases.
• Special Needs and Additional Expenses: Children with special needs may require additional financial support. In these cases, a child support attorney can help ensure that the child’s unique needs are adequately addressed in the support order.
• Income from Non-traditional Sources: If the paying parent is self-employed or receives income from non-traditional sources, such as rental property or investments, it can be difficult to determine how much they are actually earning. A child support lawyer can help track down the necessary financial information to ensure that an accurate amount of support is set.

Why Hire a Child Support Attorney in Colorado Springs?

When dealing with child support issues, it can be overwhelming to navigate the legal system on your own. Hiring a knowledgeable child support attorney can provide numerous benefits and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Here are some reasons why you should consider hiring a child support attorney:

• Expertise: A child support attorney has a deep understanding of family law and can provide valuable legal advice tailored to your specific situation.
• Legal Guidance: An attorney can guide you through the complex legal procedures involved in child support cases, ensuring that you meet all deadlines and requirements.
• Negotiation Skills: Your attorney can negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair child support agreement that takes into account your financial situation and the best interests of your child.
• Enforcement: If the other party fails to comply with the child support order, your attorney can take legal action to enforce the order and ensure that you receive the support you are entitled to.
• Peace of Mind: By having an experienced attorney handle your child support case, you can have peace of mind knowing that your legal rights are being protected and that you have a strong advocate on your side.

Don't navigate the complexities of child support law alone. Contact our Colorado Springs child support attorney today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can help you with your child support case.

Get in Touch with Our Colorado Springs Child Support Lawyer

If you are seeking child support or need help defending against unrealistic child support obligations, speak with one of our child support lawyers in Colorado Springs today.

To learn more on any Colorado law relating child custody, call (719) 212-4227 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Commonly Asked Questions

Do you have to pay child support if you have 50/50 custody in Colorado?

Even with 50/50 custody, child support may still be required depending on the parents' incomes and other factors. If there is a significant difference in income, the higher-earning parent may be required to pay child support to the other parent to ensure the child's needs are met.

What happens if a father doesn't pay child support in Colorado?

If a father doesn't pay child support in Colorado, the custodial parent can seek enforcement through the courts. This may include wage garnishment, suspension of licenses, liens on property, or even contempt of court charges, potentially resulting in fines or jail time.

Can you negotiate child support in Colorado?

Yes, child support can be negotiated in Colorado, especially if both parents agree on a different arrangement than the standard guideline amount. However, any agreed-upon modification must be approved by the court to ensure it is in the best interest of the child.