Court Ruling Clarifies Definition of Parenting Time Adjustments

March 18, 2025 - 00:15

In a significant ruling, Colorado's second-highest court has determined that a substantial reduction in a parent's time with their child does not constitute a "restriction" that necessitates a stricter level of justification. This landmark decision marks the first time the court has addressed the nuances of parenting time changes in such a manner, potentially reshaping how future custody cases are handled in the state.

The ruling emerged from a case where one parent sought to challenge a judge's decision to decrease their parenting time. The court concluded that while the reduction was considerable, it did not meet the legal threshold for a restriction that would require additional justification. This interpretation could have wide-ranging implications for custody arrangements, as it suggests that judges have greater discretion in modifying parenting time without needing to prove that such changes are in the best interests of the child through heightened scrutiny.

Legal experts are closely monitoring the ramifications of this ruling, as it may influence how parents approach custody disputes and the strategies attorneys employ in such cases. The decision underscores the evolving landscape of family law in Colorado, emphasizing the importance of understanding the legal definitions surrounding parenting time.