When you get divorced, in addition to navigating the difficult decisions surrounding custody, you will also need to work out a fair child support arrangement. Generally speaking, the noncustodial parent is responsible for paying child support to the parent with primary physical custody. Child support payments can help guarantee that your children have what they need. Although Connecticut’s Child Support Guidelines calculate a presumptive weekly amount, there are several other factors that can be considered in calculating a final sum.
When you need help establishing child support or would like to enforce or modify an existing child support order, reach out to our seasoned family law attorneys for assistance. A Southbury child support lawyer at our firm understands the relevant law and procedure and can easily navigate the process with you. Reach out to one of our skilled family attorneys today to learn more.
Child support payments are based on the Connecticut Child Support Guidelines formula, which calculates an amount based on the number of shared children, and the parent’s income and custody arrangement. However, judges have discretion to consider other relevant factors. The family court may give weight to the following:
Child support payments are made until the children turn eighteen or graduate high school, whichever comes first. Noncustodial parents must pay child support whether or not they have visitation rights. Moreover, the court permits parents to deviate from Connecticut’s child support guidelines if one parent has a higher income, based on shared parenting time, or significant childcare expenses. It is best to consult a Southbury child support attorney about when a deviation is acceptable and what level of departure might be appropriate based on a family’s unique needs.
Even after the court establishes the initial child support order, circumstances may arise that require the help of an experienced lawyer in Southbury. When the parent responsible for making payments fails to do so, the parent entitled to the support can enforce the order by filing a motion with the family court. The judge may garnish wages or deduct tax refunds to satisfy outstanding payments.
Likewise, if circumstances arise that justify modifying an existing child support order, a proactive attorney can file a motion to modify the order based on the change. A couple may seek to adjust child support if one parent’s income substantially increases or decreases, there is a significant change in the parenting plan, or if the child’s needs change. Talk to a qualified legal professional about whether filing a post-judgment child support motion is appropriate given the circumstances of a certain case.
When you want to establish child support from a former partner or spouse, or when you need to enforce or modify financial support, reach out to our firm right away. Petitioning the court for a child support order can involve complicated calculations of your net income and your child’s needs, and you want to be sure an accurate support order is calculated.
Whether you are responsible for making child support payments or are entitled to financial support, our legal team can guide you through the process of seeking a child support judgment that favors you and adequately addresses your child’s needs. Schedule an initial consultation with a Southbury child support lawyer and learn how to protect your child’s needs.
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