Child Custody A Fresh, Modern Approach to Law

Centennial Child Custody Attorneys

Compassionate & Competent Custody Lawyers Serving Arapahoe County

As parents, your children are likely your top priority when going through a divorce. And that is as it should be.

But unfortunately, the fallout from divorce, legal separation, or any family law dispute is often the hardest and most damaging to children with little understanding and no control over the situation.

At the Law Office of Alexandra White, PC, our child custody lawyers serving Centennial are especially sensitive to the needs of children in any custody, divorce, legal separation, or paternity case. Our child custody lawyers in Centennial understand the importance of the deep emotional connection between parents and children and have earned a reputation for strong parental rights advocacy.

At this critical time, there is no substitute for trusted and capable legal guidance in creating a parenting plan that is fair and just for the entire family. Ideally, your child will have a continuing and meaningful relationship with both parents.

Through diligence, Law Office of Alexandra White, PC can help create a workable resolution that is in your child's best interests.

Contact a child custody attorney in Centennial at (303) 647-4245 to arrange for a free consultation today.

Child Custody Laws in Centennial, Colorado

Under Colorado child custody law, the term "child custody" has been changed to "parenting responsibilities," which involve:

Legal responsibility, such as decision-making about the child’s welfare, health, education, and other important areas of life
Parenting time, usually creating a schedule of time spent between the parents’ separate households

These factors can be split jointly or can be assigned on an individual basis. However, except in the most extreme family law cases involving domestic violence, child abuse, or substance abuse, courts favor a child spending some time with both parents.

Parenting time may be divided equally or non-equally depending on the situation’s circumstances. For example, the parent whom the child spends the most time with is often referred to as the “custodial” parent, while the other parent is referred to as the “non-custodial” parent with “visitation rights.”

These factors will apply to parents going through a divorce and to unmarried parents involved in an allocation of parental responsibilities case in the courts. In either situation, it is crucial to have an experienced Centennial child custody attorney on your side.

Common Issues in Child Custody Cases

Disruption with Visitation : Visitation disruptions are one of the most common types of custody issues. In some cases, parents disrupt visitation times if the other parent isn’t paying child support. In other cases, a parent may fail to follow court orders, such as dropping off the child at the agreed time or place. These can become a major issue among parents, requiring them to go to court over and over.
Parent Relocations: Parent relocations are another common issue that is present during custody cases. Often, the parent with sole custody of the child wants to move out-of-state, making visitation times difficult for the other parent. However, parent relocations cannot take place unless the court grants them permission.

Joint & Primary Parenting Responsibilities

In Colorado, child custody arrangements are typically referred to as "parental responsibilities", which include both decision-making responsibilities and parenting time. The state prioritizes the best interests of the child when determining custody arrangements. Here are the common types of custody arrangements in Colorado:

Sole Decision-Making Responsibility: One parent has the exclusive authority to make major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. This is typically granted when the court believes joint decision-making would be harmful to the child, such as in cases of domestic violence or severe conflict between parents. The non-custodial parent may still have visitation rights but does not have input on major decisions.
Joint Decision-Making Responsibility: Both parents share the responsibility of making important decisions about the child’s life. Colorado courts generally prefer this arrangement unless one parent is deemed unfit to co-parent effectively. It requires cooperation and good communication between the parents to make joint decisions in the best interest of the child.
Primary Physical Custody: The child primarily lives with one parent, known as the custodial parent. The other parent typically has visitation rights or scheduled parenting time but does not have the child most of the time. This arrangement is often chosen when one parent is better suited to handle the child’s daily needs.
Joint Physical Custody: The child spends significant and roughly equal time living with both parents. Parenting time is divided between both homes, often based on a set schedule. This arrangement works best when parents live near each other and can maintain consistent routines for the child.
Split Custody: In families with multiple children, each parent may have primary custody of at least one child. This arrangement is less common because courts generally try to keep siblings together, but it may be appropriate if the children have different needs or stronger relationships with one parent.
Bird's Nest Custody: The child stays in one home, and the parents take turns living with them, while they rotate in and out according to a schedule. This arrangement minimizes disruptions to the child’s life but requires a high level of cooperation and shared living arrangements between the parents. It is rare and often used temporarily during transitional periods.
Supervised Visitation: One parent is allowed to see the child only under the supervision of a third party, often because of concerns about the child's safety or well-being. This is typically ordered in cases involving substance abuse, domestic violence, or other risks to the child. The goal is to maintain the parent-child relationship while ensuring the child’s safety.

A child custody lawyer can help you identify and pursue the ideal parenting responsibility distribution for you and your child.

What Factors Does the Arapahoe County Court Consider in a Custody Case?

In any custody dispute, the court's primary concern will always be the best interests of the child. Assuming the parents are relying on the judge to develop a parenting responsibility agreement on their behalf, the judge will always do what they think is best for the child. Some factors the court considers in custody cases include:

Each parent's current relationship and history with the child;
The health and age of both parents;
Whether either parent has a history of behavior such as domestic violence or neglect that could make them unfit to parent;
Each parent's financial situation;
How a proposed custody arrangement would impact the child's life;
The child's own preferences if they're mature enough to have a say; and
Any other factors the court considers relevant to the case.

Our custody lawyers serving Centennial, Colorado, will work with you to ensure you pursue the best possible outcome in your custody dispute, fighting relentlessly for your parental rights in and out of the courtroom.

Can Custody Arrangements Be Modified?

Custody arrangements can indeed be modified under certain circumstances. As life evolves, so too can the needs of your family. Courts recognize that the custody arrangements that were appropriate when the original order was established may no longer serve the best interests of your child. Whether you are seeking to increase your time with your child or need to address a significant change in circumstances, it is possible to request a modification of the existing custody order.

To modify a custody arrangement, you must demonstrate to the court that a significant change in circumstances has occurred since the original order was put in place. This change must impact the welfare of the child. Common reasons for requesting a modification include a parent relocating for a job, changes in the child's needs as they grow older, or concerns about the other parent’s ability to provide a stable and safe environment.

The court’s primary focus remains the best interests of the child. Any request to modify a custody arrangement will be carefully reviewed to ensure that the proposed changes support the child's well-being. It’s important to understand that the court does not take modifications lightly; the burden of proof lies with the parent requesting the change.

Navigating the process of modifying a custody order can be complex. Legal guidance is crucial to ensure that your request is properly presented and supported with the necessary evidence. Our law firm has extensive experience in handling custody modification cases and is dedicated to advocating for arrangements that reflect the current needs and best interests of your child. If you believe a modification is necessary, we are here to help you understand your options and guide you through the legal process.

Our Centennial Child Custody Lawyers Provide Guidance & Support

At the Law Office of Alexandra White, PC, our child custody lawyers believe that you know your child and family situation best which is why it is in your best interests to reach an agreement outside of court. Our child custody lawyers are here to facilitate a resolution and smooth transition of child custody through sound legal guidance and support throughout Arapahoe County, Colorado.

Talk to One of Our Capable Centennial Child Custody Lawyers. Contact Us Online or Call Now at (303) 647-4245!

Commonly Asked Questions

How can a Centennial child custody attorney assist me during a divorce?

A Centennial child custody attorney can provide invaluable assistance during a divorce by ensuring that your child's best interests are the focal point of all negotiations and decisions. They can help you navigate the complexities of Colorado's family law, create a fair and just parenting plan, and advocate for your parental rights. Their guidance can be crucial in reaching a resolution that allows your child to maintain a strong, loving relationship with both parents post-divorce.

Why should I choose a Centennial child custody lawyer from the Law Office of Alexandra White, PC?

Choosing a Centennial child custody lawyer from the Law Office of Alexandra White, PC means you'll be working with a team that understands the emotional complexities of custody disputes and prioritizes your child's well-being. They believe in empowering you to make informed decisions and strive to resolve custody matters outside of court when possible. Their commitment to providing sound legal guidance and support throughout Arapahoe County makes them a strong ally in protecting your parental rights and achieving a favorable outcome for your family.

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"Hands down, was the best experience"
The Team at the Law Office of Alexandra White, hands down, was the best experience I have had considering the circumstances. Having used other Attorneys in the past, the professionalism was FAR greater with Alex and her Team. The amount of communication, preparation and clarity provided every step of the way reassured me that they had my case handled. On top of all that, we won walking out with confidence and pride!

- Brooke C.
"Exactly what I am looking for"
They were very professional and more than willing to listen to exactly what I am looking for and were very clear about the steps I needed to take!

- Maggie D.
"Kind and empathetic"
Megan was fantastic. Not only did she handle the legal side of my child custody/support filing, but she was kind and empathetic too. And, we were able to settle before the hearing, so that was the best outcome I could've asked for given the circumstances. I'd definitely recommend the firm as a whole, as Alex was a huge help in settling my divorce seven years ago too. They're overall mindful of costs, supportive, and knowledgeable, and I'm very grateful for them.

- Hilary H.
"She makes the process as easy as possible!"
A special thank you for Lorie, she makes the process as easy as possible when I first contacted the office. Her laugh, kindness, cheery voice and calm presences got me through many days after I spoke with her.

- Kathleen
"I am beyond thrilled with the outcome of my divorce and I highly recommend Michael to negotiate your divorce."
Michael Cheroutes, Jr. negotiated a “Miracle ” settlement for me with exceptional skill and instinct. I am beyond thrilled with the outcome of my divorce and I highly recommend Michael to negotiate your divorce.
Michael was willing to really listen to me:
I had spoken to dozens of attorneys and had even hired a divorce firm, before I was referred to Michael, but they all failed to put in the initial time and energy into fully understanding and comprehending what I was saying about my case. Great lawyers know the value of listening and Michael put in the energy and passion up front, at our initial consultation, that allowed him to extract and analyze the relevant facts he needed to recommend a plan.
Michael knows the Law and is a stellar communicator:
Great lawyers don’t allow their clients to go down expensive rabbit holes. Michael explained clearly what will work and what I needed to focus on. His guidance allowed me to identify what documents and evidence I needed to collect to assist him with my case while saving me money. Michael’s communication with the opposing counsel was genius; he ignored the counsel’s reputation and my dire warnings about him and developed his own professional, strategic and healthy skeptical relationship with him that paid off handsomely for me in the end.
Michael is smart and creative:
Great Lawyers use their knowledge and creativity to craft solutions that I never even realized were possible. Michael approached my case and new information with an open mind and tailored creative solutions to any and all obstacles despite me telling him that my prior attorney said this or that couldn’t be done. We hit one big, tall, unbreakable brick wall and I was in despair what to do. Michael used perfect judgement in determining that the Wall was not worth climbing but instead used it as a negotiating tool where it mattered most and served me best.
Michael is a Great negotiator:
When it came time for mediation Michael helped me prepare and talked with me at length about what to expect which calmed me. Michael summed up my case to the mediator with stunning accuracy and compassion. He had developed a legal and moral argument of why my offer was truly the only fair and equitable outcome. It was remarkable to witness and moved me to tears to realize not only had Michael been listening to me all along but that he really believed in my case and that it mattered to him enough to be well prepared and organized when it was crunch time. The mediator agreed with his argument and I assume she helped opposing counsel agree as well because I received more then I dreamed was possible on the first offer. I was elated with the results and the papers were signed that day!
Great lawyers know how how to prepare effective, clear and well-reasoned legal documents:
As awesome as mediation went I had no idea how important the “boiler plate” legal document, memorializing our agreement was going to be. The first draft written by opposing counsel depressed me and I truly didn’t feel comfortable signing it - there were way too many “what if’s” left out. I expressed my concerns to Michael who told me not to worry and that he still had to review it. The next version, which Michael edited, was effective, clear and well reasoned and addressed every one of my concerns eliminating all my “what if’s”.
A Great Lawyer assembles a great team around him:
Michael and his para-legal Laura, were proactive and in constant communications keeping me updated and informed. I was so grateful to have such a caring and knowledgeable team assisting me during one of the most difficult and dark times in my life. Their passion for serving others was contagious and refreshing. Michael and Laura’s commitment to making things a “little bit better for me” have and will make a dramatic and positive impact on the rest of my life.

- Cassandra
"Great Trusting Attorney!!!"
I have already referred Kevin to a few friends that are going to through the same things I went through for custody. During my first conversation with Kevin, he was very informative, knowledgeable, and felt very trustworthy and genuine. I had debating on hiring an attorney because of the cost and experiences in the past with other attorneys that I had, but after our initial conversation, I knew he was the right one for my case. Kevin always made me aware of all my options and helped me threw probably one the toughest times in my life. I will use him and his firm again if any issues should ever arise. The relief I felt knowing that he was on my side and fighting for what I wanted for my child was wonderful.

- Cari

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