Skip to content

Teen in Colorado thinking about emancipation

Age of Emancipation in Colorado

February 2, 2021
By

19 is the age of emancipation in Colorado. That means that child support obligations are generally in effect through the age of 18, until the child’s 19th birthday.

Here’s a closer look at what emancipation legally means and how it matters in family court cases in Colorado.

What Is Emancipation?

Emancipation describes the legal age of adulthood in the context of family courts. It’s the age at which an individual is no longer considered to be a child and, instead, is seen as an adult in the eyes of the law. Emancipation impacts the end date of child support obligations because there is a general belief the adult (former child) should now be able to financially support himself or herself.

Although many child support orders in Colorado will come to an end when the child turns 19, there are exceptions that could result in support payments lasting longer or being cut off before the age of 19.

When Would Early Emancipation in Colorado End Child Support?

There are some specific circumstances under which an individual under the age of 19 could be emancipated early, ending child support payments in Colorado. This could occur when an individual younger than 19:

  • Marries
  • Lives alone or is financially independent
  • Had obtained a court order of emancipation

As with many issues of family law, there are grey areas—like when a child may live away from home but still is not truly self-supporting. As a result, the details of a given situation are critical to review and are generally poured over by the courts. Additionally, there is usually a need to prove claims of early emancipation, like by bringing copies of marriage certificates or paystubs to court to prove a child is supporting himself or herself.

When Does Colorado Child Support Extend Beyond Emancipation?

Just as there are exceptions to ending child support before the age of 19, there are exceptions that can extend it beyond the age of emancipation. Specifically, child support can continue beyond 19 years old when:

  • A child has special needs or disabilities.
  • A child is still working towards earning a high school diploma.
  • Parents agree to extend the terms of child support beyond the age of 19.

Find Out More About Emancipation, Child Support & Other Family Law Matters

A Colorado family attorney at The Cossitt Law Firm, LLC is ready to listen and answer your questions. The truth is that any family law case can be stressful and heated—and a lot can be on the line when it comes to matters of divorce, child support, emancipation, and more.

When it’s time to protect your rights and fight for what matters most in family court, it’s time to contact The Cossitt Law Firm, LLC. We have the experience, dedication, and skills to help you navigate any family law issue, guiding you and providing superior counsel at every step.

Call (970) 488-1887 or email our firm for a 100% confidential consultation. Phone and Skype consultations are available.

Skilled, strategic, and dedicated to excellence, our lawyers are known for personal attention and unique, practical solutions in the tireless pursuit of favorable resolutions. No matter how complicated your case may be, we are here for you, and we’re ready to put our experience, know-how, and commitment to work providing you with top-quality representation.


December 19, 2022
How Is a Business Valued in a Divorce?

Like other assets, businesses owned by divorcing spouses may be subject to the rule of equitable distribution in divorce. If a business is considered marital property, it will need to be valued to determine its worth so that a fair division of assets can be made. In general, a business that one or both spouses […]

November 14, 2022
Can You Divorce Without Splitting Assets?

When married couples split up, dividing assets is often one of the most sensitive and contentious issues they face. Can you divorce without splitting assets? Not every asset that you own is subject to division, so, yes, you may be able to divorce without splitting all of your assets. If there is a particular marital […]

October 12, 2022
Is Smoking Pot Grounds for Divorce?

Can Marijuana Use Affect a Divorce Case? With the legalization of marijuana for recreational use in Colorado, there has been increased research into the effects of the drug – including its effects on marriage. If your spouse uses too much marijuana you may wonder, Is smoking pot grounds for divorce? If you are concerned about […]

September 30, 2022
9 Things about Social Media During Divorce You Don’t Want Your Spouse to Know

Social media is a regular part of life for many people. That also means that social media can affect your divorce. For regular users, we check on what friends are up to and learn about local events. We post about our trips, our pets, our favorite restaurants or cooking accomplishments, about our kids’ achievements. Some […]

Testimonials

  • "I am very appreciative of Toms services. English is a second language to me, and this process seemed difficult because of that barrier. He was very patient and thorough making sure I understood everything before he proceeded. I will recommend him to everyone! He truly cares about you, as does his wonderful, helpful team"

    Abigail
    Review from AVVO

  • "I had a very challenging case, one that could have had indefinite financial consequences. Tom Cossitt evaluated my case and identified several strategies for moving forward. I chose one and Tom developed and implemented that strategy with speed and with the utmost in professionalism. The documents he drafted on my behalf, based on extensive research and case law / precedent were thorough and comprehensive. When the Court ruled, it used the arguments as developed by Tom Cossitt verbatim in its decision, and the case was decided in my favor. Needless to say, I was pleased beyond words. Based on my experience and the outcome of my case, I would highly recommend Tom Cossitt to anyone requiring the services of a family law attorney."

    Dan
    Review from Google

  • "I met with as many as 10 different attorneys before coming across Thomas. After our initial consultation, I was very pleased with his knowledge and realistic expectations. During the really tough time, Thomas kept me calm and helped tremendously to get custody of my daughter. He kept me informed on what was going on and would ask for my input; if it was something that was unrealistic or could be done a different way, Thomas would tell me right away. During the hearings, he was amazing. He kept a professional attitude and was great at cross examinations. He took in all of the facts and evidence, and was able to present them efficiently and effectively. Ultimately helping me gain custody of my child."

    Mitchell
    Review from AVVO

The Cossitt Difference: Fort Collins Divorce Attorneys That Care

AFCC Colorado Logo
Law Week Colorado Logo
Colorado Bar Assocation Logo
Fort Collins Chamber Logo
Super Lawyers Logo
Lead Counsel Verified Logo
Avvo Client's Choice Logo
Expertise Logo

Schedule a Consultation with one of our Fort Collins Family Law Attorneys

(970) 488-1887
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram