Taking On Complex Child Custody Cases
One of parents’ biggest concerns is how their divorce will impact their children. As a parent, you want the best for your child. Whether you share multiple children or have a child with special needs, custody cases can be complicated and emotional.
At Kendrick Family Legal Solutions, LLC, attorney Laura Kendrick has over a decade of experience helping clients in the Denver area fight for custody of their children. She understands how important the parent-child relationship is. She will dedicate the personal attention required for your case to be successful.
Is Child Custody 50/50 In Colorado?
In Colorado, parenting time does not have to be split 50/50. Colorado law only requires that parents have frequent and continuing contact with their children. While equal parenting time is feasible in some cases, it is not mandatory.
Like other states, Colorado follows the standard of considering the child’s best interests when making custody decisions. Courts will consider the child’s physical, mental and emotional well-being and the relationship between the child and each parent. The court may also consider the child’s wishes if the child is mature enough.
Child Custody For Kids With Special Needs
A divorce and custody arrangement can be even more difficult for children with special needs. Many special needs children require stability and attention that cannot wait until the divorce and custody decision is finalized.
For children with special needs, the court also considers which parent is best equipped to properly care for them so that they are safe and their physical and emotional needs are met. The court will also consider the ability of each parent to put their child’s needs above their own and which one has consistently done so in the past. For example, if one parent takes care of the child and is used to their specific medical needs, it may be best for the child to remain with that parent.
Child custody cases for kids with special needs add another layer of complexity. You need an attorney who understands how these disabilities can impact your life. With a background in psychology, Laura understands the unique needs of these clients and how to help them.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody In Colorado
Since Colorado child-related family matters are complex and emotional, parents often have concerns about how courts approach child custody issues. The following questions and answers provide crucial guidance for families navigating these matters in Denver.
How does Colorado determine decision-making responsibility (legal custody) between parents?
Colorado defines decision-making responsibility as the authority to make major choices for the child. Common examples include the child’s education, health care and religious upbringing. Courts may award joint or sole decision-making depending on the family’s circumstances.
Judges evaluate each parent’s ability to communicate, cooperate and place the child’s needs first. When parents cannot work together effectively, the court may assign one parent primary authority to reduce conflict and promote stability.
Can parents modify an existing child custody order in Colorado?
Yes, either parent may request a modification when a substantial shift in circumstances that could affect the child’s well-being occurs. Common eligible changes may involve a parent’s relocation, work schedule or their ability to meet the child’s needs.
Courts in Colorado review whether the proposed modification aligns with the child’s best interests before approving any change. Parents should follow the formal legal process rather than relying on informal agreements to help ensure the child custody order remains enforceable.
What happens when a parent fails to follow a Colorado custody order?
A parent who disregards a custody order may face legal consequences. Colorado courts take custody order violations seriously. This is especially so when violations disrupt parenting time or undermine the child’s stability.
Remedies may include make-up parenting time, financial penalties or other court-imposed sanctions. Repeated violations can influence future custody decisions if the court determines that the behavior harms the child or interferes with the other parent’s rights.
Can grandparents or other relatives obtain custody or visitation in Colorado?
Yes. Grandparents or other relatives may seek visitation or custody in limited circumstances. Under Colorado law, third parties may request these rights when it supports the child’s best interests and an established relationship exists.
Cases like these require strong evidence showing that continued contact benefits the child. Courts carefully weigh these requests to respect parental rights while ensuring the child maintains meaningful and supportive relationships when appropriate.
Giving Your Children The Best Future Possible
Don’t leave your child’s future to chance. Even amicable divorces run into problems when child custody is on the line. At Kendrick Family Legal Solutions, LLC, Laura Kendrick has the experienced necessary to help you secure a positive outcome for you and your child. Contact her today by scheduling a consultation online or by calling 720-759-3216.