About Changing Decision Making

Part of the parenting plan includes how important life decisions are made for the children, including deciding where they live. Use the forms and instructions on this page to request a change to that process.

Criteria for Changing Decision Making

You must wait at least two years before the next change in custody orders, unless one of the following is true:

• The child's health or emotional development is in danger.
• The child's main residence is changing.

Forms and Paperwork Required

Download and fill out the Change Decision Making forms using the forms link above.

Paperwork Tips

For all requests, fill out:

• JDF 1415 Motion to Change Decision Making
• JDF 1417 Order (fill out up to the case caption)
• JDF 1113 Parenting Plan (if needed)

How to Submit Paperwork to the Court

1. File with the same court that gave you the original order. Use the courts locator to find the correct court location, or file online at Colorado Courts E-Filing.
2. Pay or waive the filing fee. If you do not think you can afford the filing fee, fill out form JDF 205 Motion to File Without Payment and Supporting Financial Affidavit and JDF 206 Finding and Order Concerning Payment of Fees to request a waiver of the filing fee, or visit our File Without Payment section for complete information.
3. Mail a copy of the paperwork you filed to the other parent. Skip this step if both parents signed the Motion.

What Happens Next?

Watch your inbox/mailbox for what to do next. The court may require a hearing or mediation.