Obtaining or maintaining access to your child is not just about proving you are a capable parent. It is also about avoiding behaviors that could cast doubt on your ability to provide a safe and stable environment.
Courts take accusations seriously, and even unfounded claims can impact your rights. Here are three major issues that could jeopardize your parental responsibilities in Colorado.
Substance abuse allegations
A history of drug or alcohol misuse, or even an accusation, can be used to argue that you pose a risk to your child’s well-being. Courts may require testing or treatment, and if concerns persist, it could lead to supervised parenting time or loss of parental responsibilities. Even social drinking or legally prescribed medications can be scrutinized if they are believed to interfere with your parenting responsibilities.
Domestic violence or child abuse claims
Any allegations of violence against a co-parent or a child can immediately impact custody rights. Even if the accusations are false, courts often take precautionary measures.
Examples include ordering mandatory therapy and imposing temporary restrictions on parenting time. Protecting your rights means demonstrating that your home environment is safe and free from threats or harm.
Allegations of parental alienation
Trying to manipulate your child’s perception of the other parent, through negative comments, interference in parenting time or pressure to take sides, can be viewed as harmful, potentially impacting your parental responsibilities. Courts value cooperative parenting, and alienation tactics can result in a loss of rights or stricter enforcement of co-parenting agreements.
It is wise to obtain legal guidance in the face of harmful accusations to help you navigate these potential challenges and protect your parental rights.
