Child support is an essential part of raising a child, and it is the responsibility of both parents to provide financial assistance. Unfortunately, in some cases, one parent may be absent or uninvolved, making it difficult to obtain child support. For parents living in Denver, Colorado, there are specific steps that can be taken to locate the other parent for child support purposes. As an expert in family law, I have helped numerous clients navigate this process and ensure that their child receives the financial support they deserve.
In this article, I will discuss the steps that parents can take to locate the other parent for child support in Denver, Colorado.
Understanding Child Support Laws in Denver, Colorado
Before we dive into the steps of locating the other parent for child support, it is essential to understand the laws surrounding child support in Denver, Colorado. Child support is determined based on the income of both parents and the needs of the child. In Colorado, child support is calculated using a formula that takes into account both parents' gross income and the number of overnights each parent has with the child.It is also important to note that both parents have a legal obligation to provide financial support for their child until they reach the age of 19 or graduate from high school, whichever comes first. This means that even if one parent is not involved in the child's life, they are still responsible for paying child support.
Step 1: Gather Information
The first step in locating the other parent for child support purposes is to gather as much information as possible. This includes the other parent's full name, date of birth, social security number, and last known address.If you have any information about the other parent's employment, such as their employer's name or address, that can also be helpful. If you were married to the other parent, you may also have access to their driver's license number, which can be useful in locating them. Additionally, if you have any mutual friends or family members, they may have information about the other parent's whereabouts.
Step 2: Contact the Child Support Services Division
The Child Support Services Division (CSSD) is a state agency that helps parents establish and enforce child support orders.In Denver, Colorado, the CSSD has an office located at 1575 Sherman Street, 5th Floor. You can visit this office in person or call them at (303) 866-4300 to request assistance in locating the other parent. When contacting the CSSD, be sure to have all the information you gathered in step one ready. They will ask for this information to help locate the other parent.
The CSSD has access to various databases and resources that can aid in locating an individual.
Step 3: Hire a Private Investigator
If you are unable to locate the other parent on your own or with the help of the CSSD, you may want to consider hiring a private investigator. Private investigators have access to databases and resources that are not available to the general public, making it easier for them to locate individuals. However, it is essential to note that hiring a private investigator can be costly.Before hiring one, make sure to do your research and choose a reputable and experienced investigator.
Step 4: File a Motion to Modify Child Support
If you have exhausted all other options and are still unable to locate the other parent, you can file a motion to modify child support with the court. This motion will ask the court to modify the child support order and allow you to serve the other parent through publication. Serving through publication means that you will publish a notice in a local newspaper for a specific period, usually four weeks.If the other parent does not respond to the notice, the court may grant your request to modify child support without their involvement.
Step 5: Seek Legal Assistance
If you are struggling to locate the other parent for child support purposes, it is always best to seek legal assistance. An experienced family law attorney can guide you through the process and help you explore all available options. Additionally, if you are successful in locating the other parent, an attorney can help you establish a child support order and ensure that it is enforced.They can also assist in modifying the child support order if there are any changes in circumstances.
