Child support is typically paid by one parent to another when the parents aren’t married or living in the same home. Courts make support orders and child support enforcement agencies make sure the money is delivered to the proper person. Each state has a formula for computing child support. The state takes into account the income of both parents and relevant expenses related to the child or children. Generally, the representative who calculates the order takes the parents’ word for their income, household composition and expenses. Having a lawyer who focuses on Child Support in Guntersville AL by your side when your order is calculated might ensure all income is accounted for and the other parent doesn’t exaggerate their expenses.
Income can include more than wages from a job. If your child’s other parent has income from other sources, such as lottery winnings, unemployment benefits, Social Security or self-employment, an attorney might bring that to the attention of the court representative to ensure your child support order accurately reflects the money your ex needs from you to take care of your child. Paying less in child support might enable you to do more for your children. Any money you spend on them that doesn’t go through the enforcement program is considered a gift and won’t apply to your child support.
The amount of time your children spend with you might also have an impact on the amount of Child Support in Guntersville AL you’ll be ordered to pay. If your kids live primarily with their other parent and you only spend time with them occasionally on weekends, you’ll be expected to pay a greater portion of their living expenses than if they spend a large portion of their time in your home. If you have a complicated child support case or if you think your ex isn’t being honest with the court about their income and expenses, contact a law firm such as Business Name to represent you. With skilled legal counsel by your side, you can be sure the final support order is fair and meets the needs of your children.
