Child support
Child support that follows the guidelines, and the facts
Child support follows a formula built on both parents’ incomes, the parenting schedule and what the children need. We make sure the numbers that go into it are right.
Most support disputes are about the inputs: an income that’s hard to pin down, overtime that comes and goes, health insurance, child care. We gather the pay stubs and tax returns, fill out the financial statement with you and check the worksheet line by line.
If your income drops, your child’s needs change or the other parent earns more, an order can be modified. Don’t wait: a change usually counts only from the date you file.
Support matters we handle
A first support order
Figured from both incomes, and filed with the divorce, the custody case or on its own.
Modifications
A lost job, a raise, a new child or new costs can each be grounds to change the amount.
Health insurance and child care
Who carries the children’s coverage, and how day care and uncovered bills are split.
Unpaid support
Asking the court to enforce an order when payments stop or fall behind.
Child support, answered
Can we agree on a different amount?
Sometimes. The judge has to approve it and usually wants to know why it differs from the guidelines. We write that explanation with you.
I’m paid in cash or by the job. How is my income figured?
From the records that exist: deposits, invoices, tax returns, and sometimes what the work usually pays. We help you document it honestly.
Does support end at 18?
Not always. Depending on the state and the child, it can continue while a child is still in school. We check the rules that apply to your order.
Bring your last few pay stubs
With them we can show you, at the first meeting, roughly where the guidelines land.