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16 Year Old Detention Center Costs

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alashu

Junior Member
COLORADO

I have a 16 year old daughter who primary lives with her father in Wyoming. In the last two months she has gotten into trouble and is now in an all Girl's detention center.
Her charges are as follows:
Marijuana Use
Sexting (Other party involved is 27)
Runaway

We went to court last week and she was placed on probation. Three days later, the 27 year old that was being investigated for the sexting involvement was arrested at her home.

Because she has violated her probation (item stated in probate form: Minor agrees to avoid contact with all persons over the age 18 unless enrolled in minor's high school)
The documents received from the Judge also state that the Minor is to be supervised, by the primary parent.

Historically, I've taken care of my 16 year old's two siblings. Their father was NOT ordered to pay support for the youngest children, and I have done so for the last 11 years. Two years ago, my oldest daughter lived with me for a year and a half before getting into trouble here and being sent to her father. Her trouble here resulted in costs that I paid alone.

I want to know what my rights are as the parent in CO? My child's father is not employed and I have been told that I will be required to pay the costs of the facility of where my child is being detained. I've also learned they take my income and only allow $500 per child. Living in CO., this doesn't even cover our rent! The financial reports reviewed by the courts and family services do not account for my other living expenses and obligations.
I fear that because of my ex-husband's lack of employment I will be required to pay the entire cost of this mess that he could have prevented in the first place had he read the entirety of the court documents provided to him. Because he was not SUPERVISING our child, her actions have resulted in further court proceedings and costs that ultimately impact the two younger children.
Do I have the right to request my child be sent to CO to fulfill the balance of her sentence at a facility affordable by both parents? Or am I stuck with the current situation?

Also, I attempted to use a Child Support calculator to determine how much I may be required to pay. Would anyone know if this is a similar calculator the courts may use in deciding on the amounts due from me?

I appreciate any feedback. I don't want to jump ship on my obligations to my child. But, I also have two other children to think about.

Thanks!What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?
 


Because of joint and several liability, you will equally owe for this case. If your husband is able to weasel out of paying for this case, you can expect to pay it all.

You cannot divorce your kid.

The state or someone could petition to terminate your rights. There is probably no incentive to do that in this case; the state will typically do that in cases where the parents get sent to prison or are the ones if trouble, you have money - they'll keep you.

You need an attorney to work the best deal for you. The laws are too complicated with competiting agencies hammering you.

Hopefully a specialist in this area comes along to offer you some advice. I probably didnt tell you anything you dont already know.
 

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