When getting divorced, it is natural for couples to fight over who will keep the marital home versus other assets. However, aside from property division, one of the biggest sticking points for many divorcing individuals in Colorado is child custody and parenting. Here is a look at how custody is handled during the divorce process.
Child custody takes various forms in Colorado. Typically, a single parent will be given physical custody, which means that the children will live with him or her. Meanwhile, the other parent will be responsible for paying child support and will be giving visitation rights. The other parent might also be able to make important decisions concerning the children — a situation know as legal custody.
Alternatively, one divorcing parent may be given sole custody. In this situation, only this parent can live with the children and make critical decisions regarding their welfare and upbringing. This usually happens if the family law court deems the other party unfit to have custody of the children.
Because child custody and parenting issues can be emotionally trying and complicated, it is paramount that a divorcing parent seek the help of an attorney right away. An attorney in Colorado can guide his or her client in pursuing a parenting agreement that reflects his or her wishes as well as the best interests of the child. The attorney will also be prepared to litigate the matter at divorce trial if necessary, making sure that his or her client’s rights are protected every step of the way.