If you are contemplating a divorce in the state of Colorado, you may have many questions running through your mind. If you have children, those questions can become exceedingly complicated as you and your spouse try to determine who gets primary custody of the children. When this situation arises, it is important to contact an experienced Colorado Family Law Child Custody Lawyer to help guide you through this difficult process.
No More Custody:
In 1998, Colorado decided to stop using the term “custody” when determining the amount of time a child spends with each parent. The word custody itself seemed to imply that one parent “owned” the child and therefore, had more responsibility. By designating a “primary parent”, the courts were giving all the decision making and responsibility to one parent, while unfortunately alienating the other. As a result, many parents were forced into playing a secondary role in their child’s life.
Since then, Colorado courts have recognized that children benefit the most when both parents are involved in their lives. As a result, the court’s main objection is simply to define the amount of time the child spends with each parent and which parent will be responsible for the majority of the decision making. Most courts advocate for a 50-50 split of parenting time—-as long as it continues to be in the best interest of the children.
Deciding what is the Best Interest of the Child:
In deciding what is in the best interest of the child, the courts will thoroughly consider:
The child’s wishes
The parent’s wishes
Emotional ties to the community
School the child is currently attending
Physical and mental health of the parents
Physical and mental health of the child
If there is any history of abuse or neglect, the courts are required to take this into serious consideration when allocating the child’s time between parents.
A Parenting Plan:
If you and your spouse can come to an agreement, then you can decide what is in your child’s best interest. By agreeing on these terms yourselves, you will have more control over the final outcome and can do what it best for your family. Once you have agreed on the parenting time schedule and decision making responsibilities, you will need to submit your Parenting Plan to the courts.
If you and your spouse can come to an agreement, then you can decide what is in your child’s best interest. By agreeing on these terms yourselves, you will have more control over the final outcome and can do what it best for your family. Once you have agreed on the parenting time schedule and decision making responsibilities, you will need to submit your Parenting Plan to the courts.
A Colorado child custody attorney can be extremely helpful during this stressful time. Your chlid custody attorney will be able to help you and your spouse write a Parenting Plan that is best for your children. The more detailed your plan is, the better. By determining exactly how your child’s time is divided, you will avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and arguments in the future. In addition, you will be able to provide your child with some stability and predictability during a very unpredictable time.
As child custody lawyers, we realize that you are choosing to end your marriage— not your relationship with your children. Our family law attorneys are skilled at resolving custody disputes that arise during a divorce. Our knowledge of child custody law can help you and your spouse to come to a mutual agreement regarding your children.
Child Custody Lawyer Q&A
Yes, you and your spouse have the option to develop a parenting plan by mutual agreement in Littleton, Colorado. This approach allows you more control over the decisions affecting your child's life, providing a framework for shared parenting time and responsibilities. A detailed parenting plan can help minimize future misunderstandings and provide stability for your child during this transition. A child custody lawyer can assist in drafting a plan that meets legal standards and serves your child's best interests.
Navigating child custody laws in Littleton, Colorado, can be daunting. A skilled child custody attorney brings a deep understanding of local laws and can help protect your rights and your child's well-being throughout the custody process. From drafting a comprehensive parenting plan to representing your interests in court, a child custody lawyer can be an invaluable ally in ensuring the best possible outcome for your family.
Understanding your rights and the legal pathways available is the first step toward securing a positive future for your child. Our team of experienced child custody attorneys in Littleton is dedicated to guiding you through every step of this process, from initial consultations to crafting a tailored parenting plan. If you have any questions or require assistance, feel free to reach out to a child custody attorney at Littleton Lawyers™. Our expertise can make a significant difference in achieving a resolution that honors your family's unique needs.
Additional Information in Littleton, Colorado
Colorado Law Help - Custody Basics: provides a comprehensive overview of the basics of filing a custody case in Colorado, including when you can file, who can file, and important tips for surviving the process. It covers jurisdiction, standing, and emphasizes the importance of kindness and no harm during custody disputes.
Colorado Department of Human Services - Child Welfare: outlines the child welfare services provided in Colorado, including prevention and intervention services for families at risk, child protection services, and services for children who have been adopted through foster care.
Colorado.gov - Family Resources: Provides a comprehensive list of resources for families in Colorado, covering child support services, child welfare services, foster care, housing assistance, health care information and resources, and senior services.
The custody attorneys at Littleton Lawyers™ can examine your family situation and advise you of your rights. Please call today for a free consultation – (303) 562-1507.
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Ignacio Cohen
March 2, 2024
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Michael and Ben possess extensive knowledge of the insurance sector and will not hesitate to inform you if they believe the case lacks merit. Their guidance provided to our shared client during the legal consultation was exceptional. I highly recommend their services.
Vikki Ross
September 25, 2023
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Michael Bahr is absolutely amazing! I was in a head on collision and after talking with several attorneys decided to go with Mike Bahr. I couldn’t be happier with how everything turned out. He is compassionate, reasonable, and a good lawyer all together. I was able to claim the maximum benefits from both my insurance and the at-fault parties due to the extent of my injuries. When you are in an accident there is a lot of unknowns that add additional stress on top of trying to heal. Mike was able to answer all the questions I had and made sure I was focused on recovery. On top of just being an outstanding person and attorney he also was reasonably priced. Some attorneys are only in it for the money, but Mike Bahr genuinely seems like he wants to help people. He was extremely helpful during one of the most stressful times in my life and for that I couldn’t be more grateful. If you are ever involved in an accident I 100% would recommend reaching out to Mike Bahr.
Lindsey Taylor-Bahr
August 4, 2023
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Michael Bahr is downright the best lawyer in town! The most giving, detail oriented, and caring lawyer (if that exists). Would definitely recommend for any insurance related claims you are needing assistance with.
Lisa Higdon
June 2, 2023
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Michael Bahr was very prompt in talking with me about my issue and he helped me get my issue resolved quickly and professionally when we had problems with an insurance company.
nicole fischer
February 19, 2023
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Mike and Ben both worked on my case against the seller of my house that did not disclose a mouse infestation. Both of them listened to my case and discussed possible strategies to help me win. They had very little time to prepare (roughly a month) between the mediation and the trial. They were both very sympathetic to what had been an incredibly stressful situation. Because of Ben and Mike's help I ended up winning my case and I am beyond grateful for their help.
pat lobato
December 20, 2022
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This office is so amazing, I want to share my experience about these amazing two people we met, Michael Bahr and Renee Vigil, We reached out to them to get help with fighting for grandparents rights, Due to my Son Passed away and now the ex-daughter in law wants to restrict us from seeing our grandkids. We had hired an other lawyer who was top of the line Lawyer only to tap out of retainer fee of thousands of dollars to get really nowhere, When I met Michael and Renee I immediately felt the difference of them being Caring, Compassionate and felt they were not just lawyers but real people who felt my story. These 2 people are really there for you! I would refer them and consider them even only after a couple of visits at first they make you feel so comfortable to talk to. They have certainly have made us a friend of there's for life and don't need to ever! look for attorney else where if I ever need legal advice.
SafeHarbour Insurance Group Inc.
November 18, 2022
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Michael and Ben are well aware of the insurance industry, and won’t waste your time if they don’t think the case is viable. They gave our mutual client fantastic advice during the legal consultation. Highly recommended.
Storm Moreno
July 29, 2022
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Just wanna say that I will be referring anyone and everyone I know to this office. Through the near 2 year process Ben, Michael, and the other staff have been accommodating, professional, and reliable. They were able to reach the results best for me and I guarantee they can for you too.
