Child Support
Ensure your children receive the financial support they deserve. We help establish, modify, and enforce child support orders.
Sarah Hartwell
Founding Partner
How Child Support is Calculated in Colorado
Colorado uses specific guidelines to calculate child support obligations. In this video, we walk through the calculation process, explain what factors affect the amount, and discuss when modifications may be possible.
Sarah Hartwell
Founding Partner
Understanding Child Support in Colorado
Children deserve financial support from both parents, regardless of the parents' relationship status. Colorado has established guidelines to ensure children receive adequate support and that the burden is shared fairly between parents.
Child support in Colorado is calculated using a formula that considers both parents' gross income, the number of children, parenting time percentages, health insurance costs, childcare expenses, and extraordinary expenses. While the guidelines provide a starting point, various factors can adjust the final amount.
Whether you're seeking to establish child support, need to modify an existing order due to changed circumstances, or are struggling to enforce an order when the other parent won't pay, our attorneys can help you navigate the process and protect your children's financial security.
We understand that child support issues often arise during already stressful times—divorce, custody disputes, or when a co-parent isn't meeting their obligations. We approach these cases with both compassion for your situation and the aggressive advocacy needed to secure the support your children need.
The Child Support Process
Here's what to expect when working with Hartwell Family Law on your case.
Gathering Financial Information
We'll collect income documentation, tax returns, pay stubs, and other financial records from both parents.
Calculating Guideline Support
Using Colorado's child support guidelines, we'll calculate the presumptive support amount based on your specific circumstances.
Identifying Adjustments
We'll review factors that might adjust support above or below guidelines, such as special needs, extraordinary expenses, or shared parenting time.
Negotiation
In many cases, parents can agree on child support. We'll negotiate with the other party to reach a fair agreement.
Court Proceedings
If agreement isn't possible, we'll present evidence to the court and advocate for appropriate support.
Order Establishment
The court issues a child support order specifying the amount, payment method, and terms for modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about child support in Colorado.
Related Practice Areas
These areas often come up alongside child support matters.
Ready to Discuss Your Child Support Case?
Schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced family law attorneys. We'll discuss your situation and help you understand your options.