What Happens After the CFI Report? How Courts Use (and Challenge) Investigator Findings in Colorado
What Happens After the CFI Report? How Courts Use (and Challenge) Investigator Findings in Colorado
When Colorado courts order a Child and Family Investigator (CFI) to assess a custody or parenting time dispute, the resulting CFI report often carries significant weight. However, it’s important to understand that the report is not the final word. At Peter A Garin Attorney At Law, we help parents navigate the aftermath of a CFI report—whether that means building a case around the findings or challenging conclusions they believe are inaccurate.
What Is a CFI Report?
A Child and Family Investigator is a neutral third party appointed by the court to investigate issues involving children in divorce or parental responsibility cases. CFIs conduct interviews, observe parent-child interactions, and review relevant documents before issuing a report with recommendations. These recommendations often address parenting time, decision-making responsibilities, and other child-related issues.
How Do Colorado Courts Use the CFI Report?
Judges consider the CFI report as part of the broader evidence presented in a custody or parenting case. While the findings may influence a judge’s decision, they are not binding. Courts will still evaluate all the testimony, documentation, and legal arguments before making a final ruling. In many cases, the report’s recommendations serve as a framework for the court’s decision, especially when both parties accept its conclusions.
Can a CFI Report Be Challenged?
Yes. A parent can challenge a CFI report on several grounds:
- Factual errors: If the report contains inaccurate information, it’s critical to present evidence that sets the record straight.
- Bias or lack of neutrality: If the investigator appeared to favor one party or failed to conduct a thorough, balanced investigation, that may affect the report’s credibility.
- New evidence: Circumstances may have changed since the report was written, or new information may have come to light.
An attorney can cross-examine the CFI at trial and present alternative evidence or testimony to counter the report’s findings.
What Happens After the Report?
After the CFI submits the report, both parties receive a copy. If either side disagrees with its contents, they may file objections and request a hearing. The
court will then decide how much weight to give the report during final proceedings. In some cases, the court may also order a second opinion or appoint a Parental Responsibilities Evaluator (PRE) for a more in-depth review.
Legal Support Makes a Difference
If you're facing a custody dispute in Colorado and a CFI has been appointed, don’t assume the report determines the outcome. At Peter A Garin Attorney At Law, we work with clients to understand the report's implications, challenge flawed conclusions, and advocate for parenting arrangements that serve their child’s best interests.
