Child support is a legal obligation that ensures both parents contribute financially to the upbringing of their children. These payments may help pay for things like education, healthcare, and other basic needs. They can also be used to cover extracurricular activities, such as sports teams or music lessons. If you need to get a child support arrangement set up or you are accused of misusing child support funds, contact an experienced Orlando child support lawyer immediately.
Raising a family is expensive, and not everyone has the financial means to do it alone. Florida law recognizes this and sets forth a child support formula based on each parent’s respective income. However, there are a number of factors that can affect this calculation and determine how much support you should receive or be obligated to pay.
The first factor is each parent’s actual monthly income. This is typically a combination of wages from employment, self-employment, and other sources of income. It is important to provide your Orlando child support attorney with accurate information about these earnings. It is also important to understand that there are a number of deductions from income that are statutory and will reduce the amount of child support paid. In addition, there are circumstances where the court can deviate from the child support guidelines. Your lawyer will explain the rules and procedures regarding these issues to you.
Time-sharing is another major factor that will influence the child support award. The court will consider the parents’ time-sharing schedule and any deviations from this schedule that are approved by the state. For example, if one parent has more than 40 percent of overnights, this will likely reduce that parent’s child support obligation.
Health insurance coverage is also a significant factor that will influence the child support amount. Both parents must maintain health insurance for the children, and the health insurance costs will be considered in the determination of the child support amount. If a parent is self-employed, the amount of child support will be affected by the discretionary nature of his or her income and the tax consequences associated with it.
Finding the best Child Support Attorney in Orlando
The right lawyer can make a huge difference in your case. An experienced Orlando child support attorney can guide you through the process, explain how Florida courts decide child support awards, and assist with matters involving enforcement, modification, or contempt of court.
If you are paying or receiving child support, or need to modify an existing order, contact an Orlando child custody lawyer at McMichen, Cinami & Demps, LLP as soon as possible. Our firm is dedicated to providing unparalleled legal representation for clients facing child-related matters. We will protect your rights, and work toward a fair and reasonable child support arrangement that prioritizes the well-being of your children. For additional information, please call us at (407) 644-7017 or email us to set up a free consultation. We are happy to answer your questions and discuss your situation in detail.