If you have children, you probably know how important it is to make sure you receive enough child support to cover your expenses. Even though you may have agreed to a certain amount in your divorce, things often change over time. Sometimes, the support you are receiving no longer covers your costs and it is necessary to go back to court for a modification.
In every state, a formula for determining how much child support should be paid is used by the courts. That formula is based on a number of factors that take into account the needs of each child, as well as the incomes of the parents.
This formula can be difficult to determine, and can also involve the complexities of tax consequences. An experienced attorney can help you understand your financial situation and the impact that your income has on your child support obligation.
Whether you are seeking or paying child support, a skilled attorney can assist you in achieving the best possible outcome. This is especially true in cases where hidden income is involved.
A good Miami-Dade County family attorneys can also help you get an increase in child support if your salary has increased, or if the other parent has been unemployed for a period of time. However, you must show a significant change in your circumstances since the original court order was issued.
When your income has changed significantly, a court will consider whether the new amount of child support is fair and reasonable. This will usually be determined by a hearing that requires both parties to attend and a judge to make the decision.
Your attorney can help you make the case that the new amount of support is in your child’s best interest and will be appropriate for his or her unique needs. For example, if the child has special needs that require additional care, the court will likely award more support to cover those costs.
If the court does not agree with your argument, you can appeal to a higher-level appellate court. This process is complicated and can be very expensive, so it is important to consult with an experienced attorney to ensure you have the best chance of obtaining the desired result.
In some states, a parent can request an increase in child support if their income has increased by 10% or more since the initial order was established. In other states, a noncustodial parent must show that their income has significantly decreased.
Regardless of which state you live in, you should have access to a calculator that will help you figure out how much child support you need to pay. This will help you avoid arguing with your ex over the exact amount and can allow you to get a better idea of what is appropriate for your specific situation.