Typically, each parent covers their own legal costs in a child custody dispute. However, the court may order one parent to reimburse the other for attorney fees if they file frivolous or harassing legal motions.

For instance, a parent who falsely accuses the other of child neglect may be responsible for the other parent’s legal costs.

Courts use a number of factors to determine child custody arrangements, prioritizing the child’s best interests. 

The courts consider both parents’ wishes, the child’s wishes, the child’s relationships with parents and siblings, and how well the child adjusts to different homes. However, the court may also consider the parents’ mental and physical health, ability to care for the child, and geographic proximity. 

While you can’t control all these factors, you can demonstrate your ability to provide a stable home environment for your child. Focusing on the relationship with your child will go a long way with the court.

There are several ways to establish paternity in Colorado. If the parents are married or were married around the time of the child's birth, paternity is often presumed. In other cases, a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity form can be signed by both parents. 

If paternity is disputed, the court can order a paternity test. DNA results showing a 97% or higher probability of paternity are typically conclusive. 

Once established, paternity is generally hard to challenge.