When two people have children together, they are both responsible for providing financial support. During a divorce, the courts may formalize this obligation by requiring one of the parties to make monthly payments to the other based on the needs of their kids.
A dedicated family lawyer can help you understand your obligations while advocating for a fair order from the court. Judges have leeway when it comes to making these awards, so it is important to have a Florida child support lawyer fighting for you.
Understanding Child Support Rules
Each parent shares an obligation to provide for their children’s essential and non-essential needs. These payments are intended to cover vital expenses related to clothes, food, and housing and may also be used for things like extracurricular activities or transportation. A child support attorney in Florida could provide insight into all of the ways this money may be used – and the ways it cannot be used.
A Judge might order payments even between parents who share custody equally. If one party provides the primary residence for the child most of the year, they are likely covering those expenses. Child support is designed to ensure both parties are contributing their fair share.
Most of the time, this obligation remains in place until the juvenile turns 18, but it can be extended, specifically if the child is still a student. Both parties also have the opportunity to agree on the duration and scope of child support obligations.
Factors That Affect Support Payments
When a Florida Judge is making decisions regarding child support cases, they are required to take several pieces of information into account. This begins with both parties’ gross income, as support determinations are partly based on a parent’s ability to pay.
The court will consider all forms of income beyond salary or commissions. They look at Social Security benefits, investments, and bonuses, among other sources. Other financial obligations of a parent will also come into play, particularly existing support orders for other children.
The current custody award is also important. A parent who has primary custody is more likely to be awarded benefits, for example. It is important to seek guidance from a child support attorney in Florida before making the case for a fair outcome.
Orders Can Be Modified
When a Judge issues an order, it is considered to be final, but it may be possible to amend these orders at a later time. If circumstances change in the future, it may be in the best interest of the child to adjust the specifics of the arrangement.
One common example involves the non-custodial parent experiencing a change in their earnings. Either party can request a modification if the change in earnings would alter the monthly obligation by at least 15 percent or $50. Some changes in circumstances are not financial in nature, such as the changing health needs of a parent or their kids. A child support attorney in Florida could assist with modifying these orders to ensure fairness.
Talk to a Child Support Attorney in Florida Today
As a parent, you have an obligation to provide financial support when there is a divorce with a child involved. You also deserve to be treated fairly by the court system, which is never guaranteed. The right Florida child support lawyer can help you secure the best possible outcome for you and your child. Call today for a free case evaluation from the team at The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm.