A child’s voice is essential in cases involving parenting time, decision-making, child support, and allocation of a child’s property. A Child Legal Representative (CLR) allows your child to have a voice while keeping the child somewhat removed from the stresses of Court. A CLR is a licensed attorney appointed to represent one or more children. C.R.S. § 14-10-116 governs the appointment of a CLR in Colorado.
Who may appoint a child legal representative?
- The parents may agree to appoint a CLR for one or more children.
- If the parents disagree, one parent should file a Motion with the Court requesting the appointment of a CLR.
- The Court can appoint a CLR during a pending case if the need becomes apparent.
What does a child legal representative do?
A CLR participates in all case phases and represents the child’s best interests. C.R.S. § 14-10-124 provides factors the Court must consider in determining the child’s best interests. The CLR can represent the child’s best interests relating to parenting time, decision-making responsibility, Child Support, and allocation of the child’s property. Every case has distinct issues for which a CLR may be necessary. Issues such as vaccines, education, extracurricular activities, and high-conflict family dynamics are all issues a CLR may be helpful.
Who pays for a child legal representative?
Most CLRs require a retainer. The CLR charges an hourly rate against the initial retainer for all work done on the children’s behalf. The parents are responsible for paying the CLR. C.R.S § 14-10-116 permits the State to incur the fees if the parties are deemed indigent.
Appointing a CLR to advocate for your children ensures your children’s needs and desires are shared with the Court and allows you to focus on yourself during a divorce or parental responsibilities case.
The attorneys at Divorce in Colorado have dedicated mediators and are available for your child’s CLR!
