A Child and Family Investigation (CFI) is a court-ordered process conducted in family law matters involving the allocation of parental responsibilities, parenting time, and decision-making. The purpose of a CFI is to provide the Court with objective, neutral, and fact-based information to assist in determining what arrangements are in the best interests of the child, consistent with Colorado law and Chief Justice Directive 04-08.

A court-appointed Child and Family Investigator, serves as a neutral professional. The CFI does not represent either parent and does not provide therapeutic services during the course of the investigation. The CFI’s role is to gather relevant information, assess family dynamics, and make recommendations to the Court based on statutory best-interest factors.

The CFI may employ structured interviews with the parties, minor child(ren), and relevant collateral sources, as well as conduct observations of parent–child interactions when appropriate. The investigation is conducted pursuant to the Court’s Order of Appointment and is limited to the issues identified therein. Information gathered is analyzed in consideration of the statutory best interest factors set forth in C.R.S. § 14-10-124 and in accordance with Chief Justice Directive 04-08.

Upon completion of the investigation, the CFI submits written findings and recommendations to the Court. These recommendations reflect the CFI’s professional opinions regarding the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time arrangements that serve the best interests of the minor child(ren), with primary consideration given to the child’s safety, stability, and overall well-being.