Understanding Child Support In California
Providing for the care and support of children who are the product of a marriage that ends in divorce can be emotionally difficult. The process of negotiating and litigating the amount of support that these children require can also be contentious proceedings that may spiral out of control without a calm and experienced guiding hand. Our child support lawyers provide the kind of legal counsel you need to ensure that your children are cared for at a level equal to their needs and your means.
At Harris and Fraser, our primary focus is on providing compassionate, communicative representation for our clients in a variety of family law matters. Our San Mateo County child support lawyers have more than 25 years of experience in the field. Contact our law firm online or call 650-389-9036 to speak to an attorney.
How Courts Determine Child Support
In California, both parents have an equal duty to financially support their children. Generally speaking, the duty of support ends upon children reaching the age of 18. Frequently, the amount of child support to be paid is one of the more contentious issues in family law.
Child support is determined by a mathematical formula stemming from statutory guidelines that determine what factors should be accounted for. Any assessment of child support obligations requires consideration of such factors, including:
- The incomes of both parents
- The number of children for which support is required
- The cost of health insurance paid by the parents
- The amount of time the children spend with each parent
The attorneys at Harris and Fraser have the comprehensive understanding of these factors necessary to ensure that the amount of child support accurately reflects the true income and expenses of the parents. In short, we will protect your interests to make sure that your children are cared for at the appropriate financial level, and that the level is fair to you.
How Our Firm Works For You
We counsel clients on the factors that affect the amount of child support payable. This includes gathering the financial information necessary to ensure the correct application of child support guidelines. Our attorneys calculate the appropriate child support according to the latest requirements, ensuring you know the range of likely outcomes before you set foot in court.
We also help clients understand the range of possibilities and consequences that their other family law choices may have on the child support formula. For example, what are the pros and cons of keeping a house in the divorce? What would happen if the client let the house go? Careful assessment by our experienced attorneys will reveal your best options and opportunities.
Answering Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Child Support
When our clients are navigating child support matters, they often have many pressing questions. As we guide you through the process, we are here to provide clear answers and ensure your rights and responsibilities are fully understood. Some of the most common questions we receive from our clients include:
What happens if a parent refuses to pay child support in California?
If a parent refuses to pay court-ordered child support in California, enforcement actions can be taken. The state may garnish wages, intercept tax refunds, or suspend the non-paying parent’s driver’s license. In severe cases, the court may impose fines or even jail time.
Can child support orders be modified in California?
Yes, child support orders can be modified in California if there is a significant change in circumstances. This could include changes in income, job loss, or shifts in custody arrangements. To request a modification, you must file a motion with the court and provide evidence supporting the change.
Does child support cover college expenses in California?
In California, child support typically ends when a child turns 18 or graduates high school, whichever comes later. However, parents can agree to extend support for college expenses through a private agreement. These agreements are not mandated by law but can be enforced if included in a court order.
Can child support be enforced if the paying parent lives out of state?
Yes, child support can be enforced even if the paying parent lives outside California. The Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA) allows states to work together to enforce child support orders. This ensures that parents cannot avoid their obligations simply by moving to another state.
Contact Our Support And Custody Attorneys Today
Harris and Fraser is dedicated to providing superior customer service and sound legal advice to clients who require assistance with family law matters, including divorce, child custody and child support. Contact our attorneys online or call 650-389-9036 to discuss the unique facts of your case.