Child support is a monthly monetary obligation that parents pay to one another to help ease the financial burden of raising children. A court will typically set this amount based on a formula that takes into account the parents’ income, any additional children they have or will be caring for, custody time, child care expenses, health insurance, travel costs for parenting time and other applicable costs. It is very important to have an experienced Phoenix Child Support lawyer on your side to ensure that you are receiving or paying the correct amount.

Child support laws vary from state to state, but all states follow the federal Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA). This law sets out a formula that judges use when determining child support payments. It takes into account both parties’ monthly gross income, any other children in the relationship, each parent’s relative time with each child and special expenses such as medical and dental bills. A judge can choose to deviate from the guidelines and award another amount above or below them depending on the unique circumstances of each case.

Most parents want to ensure that their child has the opportunity for a secure future, so they will often work with a qualified child support lawyer to ensure that their rights and those of their children are protected. This is especially true when parents are separated or divorced. Generally, this issue will be decided as part of a divorce proceeding but it can also be addressed in other court actions such as paternity suits, legal separations or custody proceedings.

The most important thing to remember is that both parents must meet their court-ordered child support obligations. Those who fail to do so can be subjected to contempt proceedings, fines or even jail time. In addition, parents who pay sporadically or less than the court-ordered amount are usually liable for back child support.

A Phoenix child support lawyer can assist parents who are seeking or receiving child support, as well as those who are having issues with the collection of past due amounts. In addition to being able to provide advice regarding the appropriate level of child support, your attorney will be able to facilitate negotiations with the other party and will handle any necessary paperwork for you.

It is not uncommon for the amount of child support to change. However, in order to get a modification, there needs to be a substantial change in circumstances. This could mean a change in either party’s income or a significant change in the child’s needs. Your lawyer will be able to explain what type of changes would qualify as a substantial change in circumstances.

If you have any questions about child support, contact Singer Pistiner to schedule a consultation with an attorney who is knowledgeable about this area of the law. Having an experienced attorney on your side can save you a lot of time and trouble, as well as avoid costly mistakes or procedural errors.