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Child Support

In divorce, legal separation, paternity, or allocation of parental responsibilities, child support will be determined by the Court. That determination is based upon child support worksheets which take into account income, overnight parenting time, health insurance, day care expenses, and other factors.

We will guide you through the income disclosure process required when modifying child support. As a team, we will outline and discuss your child support rights and obligations so that we can pursue the best course of action.

Generally, the non-custodial parent pays the custodial parent (learn more about child custody and decision making here). Child support is legally required, and the obligation to pay child support lasts until the child reaches adulthood or the parental relationship is legally ended.

In Colorado and in Wyoming, both parents are required to support the child, but the actual amount depends on the income of each parent. Colorado and Wyoming each use the “Income Shares Model” to calculate child support payments. This model calculates the amount of money that would have been available for raising the child had the marriage continued. That estimated amount is split proportionally to the parents according to each parent’s income and based upon a formula calculation.

Important factors for the formula:

  • Income earned by the parents
  • If a parent is self-employed, their income needs to be carefully analyzed
  • Overnights that each parent spends with any children
  • Cost of work- and education-related childcare
  • Cost of health insurance for the children
  • Extraordinary expenses for the children
  • Income earned by the children

Attorneys Todd J. Narum and Douglas T. Cohen will guide you through the worksheets to ensure that the order is equitable and enforceable. Call (720) 445-9779 now for your consultation on child support.

Modification of Child Support

Modification of child support requires a “substantial and continuing change in circumstances” in both Colorado and Wyoming.

A change is considered substantial and continuing if it results in a 10% or greater change in the amount of the support under the Colorado guidelines, and a 20% or greater change in the amount of support under the Wyoming guidelines.

Some examples of substantial and continuing changes in circumstances are:

    • A change in parenting time/overnights
    • A change in either or both parties’ income(s)
    • A change in adjustment expenses, such as health insurance or day care
    • The emancipation of a child

Attorneys Narum and Cohen will walk you through the relevant child support worksheets. We are here to listen and help you and your family throughout what can be a confusing and stressful process.

Call Peak Legal Services now at (720) 445-9779, extension 2 to consult on your child support issue.

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