Are you in a child custody battle in the State of Colorado? Child custody cases are difficult and emotional – but we are here to help at VanLandingham Law in the Denver area. We know that you have questions about your case and we want to help you get the answers you need. A common question we hear is – what factors determine child custody in Colorado? Here is a quick look at how to determine child custody in Colorado with this overview by VanLandingham Law.
What Factors Determine Child Custody in Colorado?
Child custody – or parental responsibilities – as it is known in Colorado, is determined by what is in the best interest of the child. When the judge determines custody in a parental responsibility case, there are four key factors that will be considered to help determine what is best for the child or children:
- The Child’s Own Wishes
- The Parent’s Wishes
- The Child’s Emotional Bond with the Parents
- The Degree of Difficulty for a Child to Adjust to a New Neighborhood, Home or School
In a Colorado child custody case, the judge will take the child’s wishes into account if it is deemed that the child is old enough or mature enough to have an independent opinion, not influenced by a parent. There is no age at which the judge must listen to the child and the final decision of where the child lives in a custody case still remains up to the court. It is important to note that in the State of Colorado – there is no specific gender consideration in a child custody case – meaning that it is not automatically presumed that the mother is the better parent and more qualified for custody.
How Can a Child Custody Attorney Help with Your Case?
A child custody case can be stressful and emotional – and many parents want to keep it private – but a child custody attorney may prove to be a big help. VanLandingham Law wants to help you find the best solution for your child, children and family in Denver, CO. Here is how an attorney can help with your case.
- An attorney can help you find the best and most objective outcome when the case becomes too emotional.
- An attorney can help protect a child’s interests.
- An attorney can help parents secure custody or visitation rights.