Child Custody Attorney in Fort Collins
Alexander & Associates is proud to be a Custody attorney in Colorado.
Custody is a term that we use to explain the relationship parents that are no longer together have with their kids. Custody has two parts: primary physical custody and legal custody. Physical is the amount of time the child spends with each parent and legal is the ability to make decisions for the child.
In Fort Collins Colorado, the Legislature determined that it did not like the idea that custody conveyed – that children were property of one parent of the other. So now Colorado courts refer to the relationship between parents and their children as parenting time and decision making authority.
Ideally the parents will work together to decide on a parenting plan.
The Parenting Plan outlines the day-to-day schedule for the child(ren), what special schedule the parents will follow for holidays, how decision making is allocated, and what child support is. CLICK HERE to access the Colorado form parenting plan. Cooperation for the sake of the child’s well-being is most important, regardless of who has primary physical custody.
If the parents are unable to decide on an appropriate schedule for their kids, then the judges have to decide.
Judges will rely on the parents to provide them with enough information about the family to help the judge decide what schedule will work best for the child. Judges will need to know what is going on in the child’s life – what activities is the child involved in, what type of relationship does the child have with each parent, how are the parents at communicating with each other, how old is the child, what school does the child attend, where do the parents live, and so on. Judges will need to know what is going on with each parent, and what each parent wants.
Sometimes the parents have such strong disagreements that the court may appoint a custody evaluator – either a CFI or a PRE.
Custody changes as your child grows and matures.
Imagine separating when your child is an infant. It would be impossible to predict what an appropriate parenting time schedule would be for your child at age 5, 10, 15, 17, or anywhere in between. It is also impossible to predict what will happen in the parents lives through the years. Custody, or primary physical custody, can be modified by the parties agreement at any time. It must be in writing and filed with the court in order to be enforceable.
The parties can file motions to modify primary physical custody, and other custody plans.
The parties can file motions to modify primary physical custody with the courts in the event that a change needs to happen and the parties cannot agree. CLICK HERE to access the Colorado Court form Motion to Modify.
Determining custody and modifying custody are not always straightforward. There are often many factors that will impact a determination of parenting time and decision making authority.
It is essential to make sure that you speak with a knowledgeable custody attorney that will advise you of your rights and responsibilities. Our Child Custody Attorneys in Fort Collins are ready to make sure that you’re fully informed.
Call the Fort Collins custody lawyers Alexander & Associates and schedule your initial consultation today.
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How a Child Custody Attorney Can Help Families in Fort Collins
Navigating child custody can be one of the most emotionally charged and legally complex aspects of family law. Whether you’re separating from a spouse, renegotiating parenting time, or addressing ongoing conflicts, having an experienced child custody attorney by your side can make all the difference. At Alexander & Associates, our Fort Collins family law attorneys provide compassionate, knowledgeable guidance to help you protect your child’s best interests while understanding your legal rights and responsibilities.
Understanding Your Rights and Options
We help parents understand how Colorado law defines parenting time and decision-making authority. Our team will explain the legal terminology, walk you through your options, and clarify how courts make custody determinations—so you can make informed decisions for your family.
Drafting and Reviewing Parenting Plans
A well-crafted parenting plan is essential to avoid future disputes. We’ll help you create or review your parenting plan to ensure it includes appropriate scheduling, holiday agreements, decision-making arrangements, and child support obligations—all tailored to meet your child’s needs.
Advocating for You in Court
When parents can’t agree, we advocate for your interests in court. Whether it involves presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, or guiding you through mediation or litigation, we make sure the judge has a clear, accurate picture of your family dynamic and your child’s best interests.
Modifying Existing Custody Arrangements
As your child grows or circumstances change, your custody order may need to be updated. We assist with filing motions to modify parenting time or decision-making authority—ensuring the legal process is followed and your child’s evolving needs are met.
Navigating High-Conflict Situations
In high-conflict cases, especially when communication between parents breaks down, the court may appoint a Child and Family Investigator (CFI) or a Parental Responsibilities Evaluator (PRE). We’ll help you understand this process, work with these professionals, and continue advocating for your goals.
Ensuring Compliance and Enforcement
If your co-parent is not following the agreed-upon parenting plan, we can help enforce the existing court orders. Our attorneys will guide you through the enforcement process to protect your parenting time and maintain stability for your child.
2625 Redwing Rd., Ste. 320, Fort Collins, CO 80526 | 970-725- NOCO (6626)
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