The best child Support lawyer in Phoenix AZ will understand that this issue is one of the most contested in family law, and will work tirelessly to help you reach an equitable outcome. Child support is a legal obligation to provide financial aid for a child, and it covers expenses such as food, clothing, housing, and education. It is based on the principle that parents have an obligation to financially support their children, even when they separate or divorce.
Each state has its own child support guidelines to determine the amount of child support required. A judge will review four main factors to calculate the appropriate amount. These include the combined monthly income of both parents, the number of overnight stays each parent has with the child, and the cost of day care, health insurance, and other expenses. In addition to these basic criteria, a judge will also consider any special needs of the child, such as emotional, psychological, or medical issues.
Both parents must be prepared to present financial documents to the court. This includes tax returns, pay stubs, and completed financial disclosure statements. In addition, both parties may be asked to attend a financial mediation or arbitration to discuss their respective earning and spending.
If the parties cannot agree on an appropriate child support amount, a trial will be held in front of a judge. In some states, a judge may require both parents to undergo a mandatory economic assessment with the assistance of a certified financial professional. The purpose of these evaluations is to ensure that both parents are paying the correct amounts, and that the child’s actual needs are being met.
Parents often disagree over how much child support to pay, and in some cases this can cause serious problems. However, it is important to remember that the goal of child support is to ensure a child has the resources they need in order to grow and thrive, no matter which parent they live with.
A court-ordered child support will continue until a child becomes emancipated, either by turning 21 or graduating from high school. It is also possible for parents to agree to continue payments past this point, for things such as college, travel, and enrichment activities.
If a parent fails to pay child support, or pays sporadically or less than the court ordered amount, he or she can be held in contempt of court. A Phoenix child support lawyer can assist with enforcing an existing order or defending against allegations of contempt. To learn more about your options, contact a family attorney at Leavell & Rivera, P.L.C., today. You can get in touch with us through our website or by phone. We look forward to hearing from you! We also offer a free case evaluation.
