When you are going through a troublesome divorce and have children with your ex, the child custody aspect of the divorce can often become an area of contention. Courts in Colorado can appoint a Child and Family Investigator to take a look at the case and give the court a recommendation about what he or she feels is best for the child. This recommendation can include suggestions about decision-making and parenting time.
The Child and Family Investigator is an independent party in the proceedings. This person doesn’t work for either parent. Instead, the investigator is an outside party who is only thinking of the children. The investigator is usually a mental health professional or an attorney.
The investigator looks at a variety of factors when trying to investigate the situation. The needs of the child are one consideration. The ability of you and your ex to communicate and make decisions that are in the child’s best interests is another. Any domestic violence allegations, any alcohol or drug use and the relationship between each parent and the child are also considered.
The recommendations this investigator makes to the court has a significant impact on the case, but it isn’t the final order. The judge has to make the final determination of what happens. That gives either parent a chance to challenge what the investigator recommends to the court. We can help you throughout your divorce and child custody case. We can help you challenge recommendations and work toward a parenting plan that encourages a positive relationship with your child and puts your child’s needs first.
