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Child Support - How Do You Know How Much You Have To Pay?

Understanding the guidelines on child support in your state is vital for people facing support payments. Payments are calculated by taking into consideration several factors, but ultimately a court has the final say in how much have to be paid. Several calculators provide child support estimates, and an attorney can give you a clear idea, but the court has the final say.

Child Support is the amount of money owed to the custodial parent. The non-custodial parent owes on behalf of the child to cover the expenses for the needs of the child. It can be the mother or the father that receives child support, whoever is the legal custodial guardian of the child.

How Child Support is Computed 

The family law court decides the amount called the "guideline child support." The amount is decided by comparing and evaluating the tax filings of parents. It also depends on the amount of time parents have with the child.

It is essential to understand that child support is income-driven, not expense driven. Most family law attorney has and use the software that the courts apply, and will be able to compute it for you with input from you such as your income, your ex's income, health insurance payments, and tax filing status.

Child Support May Be Reviewed or Updated

If one or the other parent's financial situation changes, you may file an Order to Show Cause and have the courts re-evaluate the current child support agreement. Courts have the ultimate deciding power and may increase or decrease the child support payment based on these findings.

California law states that this should be paid before any other expenses. This should be paid monthly until the child reaches the age of 18, is emancipated, or dies. Until fully paid for, child support is due. Arrears are interest-bearing at 10 percent annually.

You have to talk to a family lawyer in your area to help you understand your rights and options and to protect yourself and your family.

Family legal cases can be emotional, frustrating, and expensive. Therefore, the right information is vital before action is taken on divorce, custody, child support, adoption, or other critical legal issues. Because of this, you must get the right knowledge.

Get the information you need to decide on your and the lives of your children intelligently and confidentially. Contact the law office of Jos Family Law at 714-733-7066 today!