How the Court Calculates Child Support
If the parents cannot agree on an amount that is fair and reasonable, the matter can be taken to court for a decision. In this case, the court would order one parent to pay the other parent (usually the custodial parent) a specific amount each month to help cover the costs of the child’s living expenses.
The court will determine the amount of child support to be paid based on the state guideline calculation. It is very rare for a judge to order an amount that is different than the guideline amount.
The factors a judge will consider when determining the child support payment include:
- The amount of time each parent spends with the child
- The income of each parent
- Each parent's earning capacity
- The number of children the parents have together
- The amount of support given to children from other relationships
- The tax filing status of each parent
- Health insurance expenses
- Union dues
- Retirement contributions
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Giammichele Law, APC stands ready to assist you through your child support case. Consult with our Laguna Woods child support attorney today and get on the path toward successfully resolving your matter.