Child support can be a contentious discussion. In many cases, this difficulty comes from the fact that child support indirectly affects the finances of both spouses post-divorce.
Regardless of whether you are or will be the parent paying or receiving the child support, you can benefit from the legal knowledge and experience of a highly qualified family attorney. The advice of a Suwanee child support lawyer can help ensure that both your interests and your children’s interests are protected.
How is Child Support Calculated in Suwanee?
When spouses divorce and have underage children from the marriage, one of the most pressing issues that the divorce court will determine is how much will have to be paid in child support. Key factors in the discussion will be which parent is the custodial parent – the parent who lives with the child most often – and how often the child will be with the non-custodial parent.
Child support in Suwanee is calculated using what is known as the “income shares model.” This is a fairly strict calculation that requires a divorce court judge to note the following factors:
- The number of marital children in need of child support;
- The gross incomes of both the custodial and the non-custodial parent;
- The costs that the custodial parent accrues in raising the child; and
- The medical and educational needs of each child.
Using these factors and others, a child support order can be established that aims to fully account for the interests of the child, without unduly burdening either parent. A Suwanee attorney can help interested parents estimate what they stand to pay or receive in child support under the income shares model.
Modifications of Child Support Orders Are Possible
As children grow up, their needs change. At the same time, parents face changing circumstances that drastically alter their income and ability to care for their children.
When either the children or parents encounter a significant life change after the child support orders have been finalized, the obligation can prove onerous or far too little. Fortunately, altering the child support obligation to reflect these changing circumstances may be possible.
Unfortunately, depending on the circumstances, proving these changes can be difficult. In order to change a child support decree, parents must be able to show a significant change in circumstances. Otherwise, parents must wait for two years from the date of the original agreement to request a modification of support payments. A Suwanee child support attorney can help determine whether a request for a modification may be appropriate.
Contact a Suwanee Child Support Attorney for Help
All parents want to make sure their child is fully taken care of after a divorce. However, there are other financial implications that are indirectly affected by child support orders, making it essential to find a support order that reflects your family’s unique circumstances.
A Suwanee child support lawyer can help. With their legal advice and experience, you can make sure your children have the resources they need to continue to grow and thrive after your divorce. Call today to learn more about your options.
