What Are Three Issues Of Parental Responsibility?
The vast majority of divorces involve children. As a parent, you are understandably concerned about where your children will live, who will be responsible for making decisions that affect them and how often you will see your children if you are awarded visitation time.
While many people still use the word “custody,” in Colorado the legal term is “parental responsibility.” While the changes to legal wording occurred in 1999, I have found that the concerns of parents have remained the same.
I am a family law attorney who serves people in the Denver metro area, including those in Littleton and Broomfield. If you would like to speak with a lawyer who understands your needs and goals, reach out to me for a free consultation. Call me today at 303-763-5286..
Three Elements To Parental Responsibility
With more than 30 years of experience, I can provide you with the advice and strategies that are necessary to navigate the divorce process. In the old model of child custody, we had to consider physical custody (where the children live) and legal custody (who has decision-making authority). While these still exist in a sense, parental responsibility essentially covers three areas:
- Which parent will the children live with?
- Which parent will have the right to make major decisions on behalf of the children? Will both parents have this right?
- What will the visitation schedule be for the noncustodial parent (the parent with whom the children do not live)?
As your attorney, I first and foremost look out for your rights as a mom or dad. In custody cases, I am also tasked with safeguarding the best interests of your children. I know that you want your children to be happy and safe. I work toward securing parental responsibility agreements that meet both objectives. Additionally, I will discuss and determine child support payments that go along with custody decisions.
Child Custody Can Change Over Time
In addition to handling initial determinations of custody, I can represent you in post-divorce issues that can arise. For example, modifications may be requested in the event of a material change in condition. Perhaps one parent wants to relocate with the children or as the children have grown older they desire to spend more time with the noncustodial parent. As with initial determinations, the best interests of the children will be the deciding factor.
How Will Divorce Affect Your Children?
Send me an email to schedule your free initial consultation. If you need to meet at a more convenient location or need a more flexible time, that can be arranged. Additionally, I can work with you to come up with a payment plan that fits your needs.