When it comes to child support in Wheat Ridge, Arvada, and Lakewood, there is a complicated formula the Jefferson County Court uses to determine whether one parent owes child support to another during a divorce, annulment, or legal separation. The calculation is based on the income of each parent, relevant costs associated with child care, health insurance, and other important expenses. The general idea behind child support is that both parents should be financially responsible for their children – the burden should not fall on one parent alone.
Is Waiving Child Support an Option in Jefferson County Court?
Child support is mandatory in the State of Colorado; however, parents can request that this requirement be waived. But, agreeing to waive child support does not necessarily mean the judge will grant that request. This is because the Jefferson County Court will have the final say on whether child support can be waived or not. Child support is not seen as a right of the parent, but of the child. If the Court finds that child support is in the best interest of the child, they will order it whether the parties requested to waive it or not.
Circumstances Surrounding a Child Support Waiver in Lakewood and Westminster
One common situation for a Westminster or Lakewood divorce where child custody may be waived is when both parties agree, have about the same income, and have equal parenting time with the child or children. Another potential situation that would allow a waiver of child support is to terminate one party’s parental rights. There must be good cause for a parental termination of rights, and dismissing child support responsibilities is not generally a valid reason.
If you are getting a divorce and have questions about child support, contact the best divorce attorneys from the Pearman Law Firm at 303-991-7600 for a initial phone consultation.
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