When parents exercise their child support rights, they do more than just fight to receive time with their children. They also argue for a fair determination of the financial support designated for caring for the youngsters. “Fair” is often in the eyes of the beholder and when the issue goes to court, this determination is up to a judge.
State courts determine the amount of child support that noncustodial parents must pay. Some states provide family court judges with significant leeway while others have restrictive guidelines in place. Education, healthcare, day care, and special needs of each child are taken into account as are the needs and income of the custodial parent. Courts follow general guidelines when determining parental income and child support covers several basic areas as well as special considerations.
Noncustodial parents can read about how courts calculate child support payments or they can obtain personalized calculations from a lawyer for child support. This attorney is well-versed in state child support guidelines and can distinguish a reasonable amount of child support from a figure that is excessive. Through legal representation, noncustodial parents reduce the chance of being taken advantage of during child support negotiations.
Some noncustodial parents are so outraged at the mandated amount of child support that they refuse to pay it. This is an unwise move because being owed back child support can drive a custodial parent back to court and may result in serious punitive action against the non-paying parent. The last thing a non-custodial parent wants is to have wages garnished or face jail time.
If the court has already rendered a decision, it is not too late to adjust the figure. An attorney will submit a request to lower child support, substantiating the reasons that the court should reconsider its initial decision. Child support figures should never be more than a custodial parent can afford to pay and should not force this adult to make drastic lifestyle sacrifices. Some child support determinations are the result of having incomplete information. Once the court has all it details, the judge will be able to make a well-informed decision.
If child support calculations seem too high, contact a lawyer for child support to determine the accuracy of the calculations. If an error is identified, the attorney will make a case to lower child support payments in the future. The non-custodial parent will then pay an affordable amount that enables each child to live comfortably.
That’s good to know that a lawyer could help you lower the child support costs. I would think that it would be ok to pay a reasonable amount for it, but if it was not being used to take care of the kids, or was more than they need, then that would not be ok. I’ll have to consider talking to a lawyer if I ever start paying too much child support.