Stipulation vs. Motion: Two Paths to Modify Child Support in Colorado

This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. GoFile is not a law firm. Using our platform or reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice for your specific situation, consult a licensed Colorado attorney.

Last Updated: May 2026

You and your co-parent both know child support needs to change. Colorado gives you two procedural paths. The difference isn’t cost. It’s whether both parents are willing to sign.

The Two Paths, in Brief

If both parents agree, you file a Stipulation using JDF 1404. Both parents sign. Both get notarized. Court review of a stipulation often takes about 2–4 weeks, but timing depends on the district and its docket, and the court may set a hearing. If one parent doesn’t agree, the other parent files a Motion using JDF 1403. The court schedules a hearing. Timing depends on the district’s docket and hearing schedule. The filing fee is $105 either way. Add $12 if you e-file through CCE.

The Stipulation Path (JDF 1404)

Both parents fill out their own Sworn Financial Statements (JDF 1111), agree on a new amount, sign JDF 1404, and submit. The court reviews the stipulation and may enter an order or set a hearing. Timing depends on the district and its docket. JDF 1404 requires both parents’ signatures to be notarized, but the form itself doesn’t include a notary acknowledgment block. Colorado allows remote online notarization under C.R.S. § 24-21-501.

The Motion Path (JDF 1403)

Parent A files JDF 1403 with the court, along with their JDF 1111 and child support worksheet. Parent B has 21 days to file a response. Hearing dates depend on the district’s docket and hearing schedule.

Side-by-Side Comparison

The stipulation path uses JDF 1404: both sign, both notarized, court review that often takes about 2–4 weeks (timing depends on the district and its docket, and the court may set a hearing), $105. The motion path uses JDF 1403: one parent files, the court sets a hearing, and timing depends on the district’s docket and hearing schedule, $105.

What Both Paths Require

Both parents complete JDF 1111 and file a Certificate of Compliance (JDF 1104). Both paths require demonstrating a substantial and continuing change under C.R.S. § 14-10-122. A detail that matters. A job loss or major promotion can change the calculated amount. Whether it meets the threshold depends on the full calculation.

When Stipulations Fall Apart

If the stipulation stalls, the other parent can file JDF 1403 (Motion) and proceed through the court hearing process.

Key Takeaways

Both paths cost $105. Timing for either path depends on the district. Both require JDF 1111. The full step-by-step modification process is covered separately. C.R.S. § 14-10-122 at Justia. Self-help at coloradojudicial.gov.