Grand Junction, CO asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Domestic Violence for Colorado

Q: I am in need of a Parental Responsibilities Evaluator, but I do not have the money to get one. Are there grants or probo

Please just email me. this won't let me explain my issue. I need help finding a grant or a pro bono Parental Responsibilities Evaluator.

2 Lawyer Answers
Tristan Kenyon Schultz
Tristan Kenyon Schultz
Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • Fort Collins, CO
  • Licensed in Colorado

A: There are no programs for PREs. You likely will never be able to find a PRE that works for free. PREs are hired guns and usually charge between $5,000-$15,000 for an evaluation. CFIs (court family investigators) are a less expensive option (statutorily they cannot charge more than $2,000 without court approval). CFIs are not subject to waivers or pro bono requirements. There is a list on the CO court webpage for CFIs in your judicial district, you can see if they will work for reduced costs (most will not).

Stephen J. Plog
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Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • Tampa, FL
  • Licensed in Colorado

A: Unfortunately, there is no statutory or rules authority for pro-bono or state paid PRE assistance. However, the court has authority to allocate fees as it sees fit and fair. If the other party in your case makes significantly more than you, the court might order him/her to pay some of the fees. You might want to consider looking into a Child and Family Investigator pursuant to C.R.S. 14-10-116.5. Depending on your income level and financial circumstances the court can authorize the state to pay for your share of a CFI. A CFI cannot perform all duties that a PRE does, but at least you get a fairly thorough assessment.

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