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Understanding Colorado JDF 1113: A Guide for Divorcing Parents

Parenting your children after divorce

Navigating divorce is never easy, especially when children are involved. In Colorado, divorcing parents often encounter legal forms designed to ensure their children’s well-being during this challenging time. One such form is the JDF 1113 – Parenting Plan, a critical document that helps establish how parents will share responsibilities and decision-making for their children post-divorce. Let’s break down what this form is, why it matters, and how to approach it effectively. You can download a PDF version of the JDF 1113 from the court website here.

What is JDF 1113?

JDF 1113 is a legal document used in Colorado family courts during divorce or separation proceedings involving minor children. It allows parents to outline a comprehensive parenting plan that covers essential aspects of child custody, parenting time, and decision-making responsibilities. The court requires this form to ensure that the children’s best interests are prioritized and that both parents have clarity on their roles moving forward.

Key Sections of JDF 1113

  1. Decision-Making Responsibilities

    • This section outlines who will make important decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, extracurricular activities, and religious upbringing. Parents can choose:
      • Joint decision-making: Both parents share responsibility.
      • Sole decision-making: One parent has exclusive authority in certain areas.
    • Example: You might agree to jointly decide on medical treatments but have one parent take the lead on educational choices.

  2. Parenting Time Schedule

    • This part details when the child will be with each parent, including:
      • Weekday and weekend schedules.
      • Holidays and special occasions (e.g., birthdays, school breaks).
    • A consistent, well-thought-out schedule helps reduce conflict and provides stability for the child.

  3. Communication Guidelines

    • Specifies how parents will communicate with each other and the child, especially during transitions between households. For instance:
      • Using shared calendars or apps for scheduling.
      • Setting rules for phone or video calls with the child during the other parent’s time.

  4. Transportation and Exchanges

    • Covers logistical details like:
      • Who will pick up and drop off the child.
      • Locations for exchanges (e.g., neutral sites or schools).

  5. Child Support and Financial Considerations

    • While child support is typically addressed separately, the parenting plan may include provisions for shared expenses like extracurricular activities or medical costs.

  6. Conflict Resolution

    • Establishes how disputes will be handled if disagreements arise, such as:
      • Mediation before returning to court.
      • Specifying a timeline for resolving conflicts.

Why is JDF 1113 Important?

  • Focus on the Child’s Best Interests: The court uses JDF 1113 to assess whether the proposed plan supports the child’s emotional, physical, and social needs.
  • Reduces Conflict: A clear and detailed parenting plan minimizes misunderstandings and reduces opportunities for conflict between parents.
  • Court Compliance: Submitting a parenting plan is often mandatory. If parents cannot agree, the court may impose its own plan.

Tips for Filling Out JDF 1113

  1. Collaborate If Possible

    • Working together with your co-parent to create a mutually agreeable plan can save time and reduce stress. If emotions are high, consider using a mediator.

  2. Be Specific and Detailed

    • Vague plans can lead to disputes. For example, instead of saying “holidays will be shared,” specify which holidays, the start and end times, and who will pick up and drop off the child.

  3. Think Long-Term

    • Consider the child’s evolving needs as they grow. A plan that works for a toddler may not suit a teenager.

  4. Use Resources

    • Colorado courts provide a JDF 1113 form with detailed instructions. Familiarize yourself with it before starting. Online tools, co-parenting apps, or consultation with a family law attorney can also help.

  5. Prioritize Flexibility

    • Life changes, and so do schedules. Build in mechanisms for revisiting and adjusting the plan if necessary.

How Courts Evaluate Parenting Plans

Courts prioritize the child’s best interests when reviewing parenting plans. Factors include:

  • The child’s relationship with each parent.
  • Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs.
  • The proposed plan’s practicality and consistency.

If parents cannot agree, the court may develop its own plan based on these factors, which might not align with either parent’s preferences. This is why it’s crucial to approach JDF 1113 thoughtfully and collaboratively.

Final Thoughts

JDF 1113 is more than a form—it’s a roadmap for your family’s future. By approaching it with care, honesty, and a focus on your child’s well-being, you can create a parenting plan that minimizes conflict and ensures a stable, supportive environment for your children.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider seeking guidance from a mediator or family law professional to help craft a plan that works for everyone involved. Remember, the effort you invest now can pay off in smoother co-parenting and happier, healthier children in the years to come.

Would you like additional resources or professional support in navigating your JDF 1113? Contact Denver Mediation Services to explore how we can help.

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