When Should You Request a CFI in Your Custody Case?

May 22, 2025

Understanding the Role of a CFI in Colorado Custody Cases

In Colorado custody disputes, emotions can run high and decisions about parenting time, legal custody, and a child’s best interests can become contentious. When parents can’t agree, the court may appoint a Child and Family Investigator (CFI) to provide insight and recommendations. But when is it the right time to request a CFI? Understanding the process and timing can make a significant difference in your case.

What Is a Child and Family Investigator (CFI)?

A CFI is a neutral third party appointed by the court to investigate and report on issues affecting the best interests of the child in custody cases. CFIs conduct interviews, review documents, and may speak with teachers, therapists, or other relevant individuals. Their findings are submitted to the judge in a report that can significantly influence custody decisions.

CFIs are often used in cases where:

Allegations of parental misconduct or abuse have been raised
There are concerns about a parent’s mental health or substance abuse
One parent believes the other is alienating the child
Disputes about parenting time and decision-making cannot be resolved through mediation

When to Request a CFI

It is usually appropriate to request a CFI early in your custody case if you anticipate serious disagreements over parenting time or decision-making responsibilities. The earlier a CFI is appointed, the sooner they can begin their investigation and submit a report before key court dates, such as temporary orders or final hearings.

You may want to request a CFI if:

Negotiations or mediation have failed to produce an agreement
The other parent has made concerning allegations
You need a professional to assess what arrangement best supports your child
You want a neutral party to evaluate parenting skills and home environments

Keep in mind that CFIs are appointed by the court, so your attorney must file a motion explaining the need. If both parents agree, they can jointly request a specific CFI, potentially speeding up the process.

How a CFI Can Impact Your Custody Case

The CFI’s report is often given significant weight by the judge. Their recommendations can help the court understand complex family dynamics and make decisions that reflect the child’s best interests. While a CFI’s input is not binding, it can strongly influence the outcome of the case.

Legal Support for Custody Matters in Colorado

At Peter A Garin Attorney At Law, we assist Colorado parents in navigating the complexities of custody disputes, including requesting and responding to CFI investigations. If you're involved in a custody case and believe a CFI may be necessary, we can help you determine whether it's the right step and guide you through the process from start to finish.

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Factors a Colorado Court Considers in Divorce

By Peter Garin • August 31, 2023

Divorce can be a difficult and emotional process, especially if you have children and valuable assets involved. Couples who have decided to file for divorce in Colorado must understand the critical factors that the court considers to handle the divorce case. Understanding these factors can prepare parties for what to expect and help them make informed decisions. In this blog post, we will discuss the essential factors that a Colorado court considers during a divorce proceeding. 1. Property Division One of the significant issues in any divorce proceeding is the splitting of property between the parties. During a divorce proceeding, the court will consider several factors to achieve an equitable distribution of property. The court considers the length of the marriage, the financial disposition of each party, and the overall value of the property or assets to be divided. 2. Child Custody When a couple with children files for divorce, the court must consider the welfare of the children involved, including their best interest. Colorado courts usually award joint custody unless one parent is deemed unfit to be a custodial parent. Other factors that the court considers include the emotional, social, and educational needs of the child and the wishes of the child (if they are mature enough). 3. Child Support In Colorado, child support is calculated based on the combined gross income of both parents, the number of minor children involved, and the amount of parenting time allotted to each parent. The court may also consider the child’s medical and educational expenses. Child support is designed to ensure that the child’s financial needs are adequately met. 4. Spousal Support Spousal support, also known as alimony, is financial support paid by one spouse to the other after the divorce is finalized. The court considers several factors when determining the amount and duration of spousal support, including the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of each spouse, and the standard of living established during the marriage. Spousal support is usually meant to be temporary to allow the lower-earning spouse time to become financially stable. 5. Mediation Mediation is an alternative to divorce litigation whereby the parties work with a mediator to reach an agreement on various divorce-related issues. Mediation can save time, money, and emotional stress for the parties involved. The parties can also retain more control over the outcome, as opposed to leaving it entirely in the hands of the court. Divorce is never easy for anyone involved, but it can be less complicated if both parties understand what to expect. By knowing the factors that Colorado courts consider during a divorce proceeding, you can better prepare yourself for the process and make informed decisions. Working with an experienced family law attorney can help you navigate the process and achieve the best possible outcome. If you are considering filing for divorce or are currently involved in a divorce proceeding, consult with an experienced attorney today.