Going through a divorce is a stressful and complicated process, and when children are involved, it can become even more complex. One of the most contentious issues in a Colorado divorce is who will be responsible for covering the costs of child care expenses.
Child Care Expenses in Colorado
Child care costs can be significant and are often a major expense for parents. In Colorado, the cost of child care can vary depending on the age of the child, the type of care needed, and where the parents live. The cost of daycare for an infant in Denver can range from $1,000 to $1,800 per month.
Factors Considered when Determining Child Care Costs
When determining child care expenses in a divorce case, several factors are considered. These include:
1. Child’s age
The cost of child care for infants and toddlers is typically higher than for older children. Infants require more attention and care, making the child care more expensive.
2. Type of care
The type of care needed also affects the cost. For example, in-home care is often more expensive than center-based care.
3. Location
Child care costs also vary depending on the location. For instance, child care costs in Denver are generally higher than in smaller cities or rural areas.
4. Work schedule
If one of the parents has an irregular work schedule or works during odd hours, additional child care may be required. This has to be taken into consideration when determining child care expenses.
Who Pays for Child Care Expenses in Colorado Divorce Cases?
In Colorado, child care expenses are typically included in child support calculations. The non-custodial parent is required to pay child support to the custodial parent as a contribution towards the child’s living expenses.
Child support calculations consider several factors, including the non-custodial parent’s income, the custodial parent’s income, the cost of health insurance, and the number of children needing support. Child care expenses are added to the final child support amount.
Additional Child Care Expenses
In addition to basic child care expenses, divorcing parents may need to consider additional child care expenses, such as fees for extracurricular activities or in-home care when the child is sick. These expenses may not be included in the initial child support calculation.
Parents are encouraged to discuss such expenses and come up with a plan that works for both parties. If they cannot reach an agreement, a judge may be asked to make the final decision on how to handle additional child care expenses.
Conclusion
Determining child care expenses in Colorado divorce cases can be challenging. It is essential to understand the factors that are considered in calculating child care expenses and how these expenses are factored into child support calculations. Ultimately, both parents need to work together to ensure that their child’s needs are met while minimizing conflict and stress during the divorce proceedings.