According to the laws of all states, both parents have a duty to support their children. The method for determining the allocation of funds can vary from state to state. Usually, the dollar amount is determined by the number of minor children in the household and the net income of the parent paying child support. The parent paying support may deduct state and federal income taxes, Social Security & Medical taxes, Union Dues, and medical insurance premiums from their gross income to determine net income for child support purposes.

Except in special circumstances, such as when a child is mentally or physically disabled, a parent's obligation to pay child support terminates when the child graduates from high school or turns 18, whichever occurs at the latest time. Child support can also be terminated if the child becomes emancipated or dies before either of the above conditions are met.

The amount of child support required to be paid by the non-custodial parent may be modified by the Court from time to time as economic circumstances change. Either parent may petition the Court to consider changes in income or expenses incurred in the raising of the child in determining the amount of support to be paid.

Failure to pay court-ordered child support is almost always a crime. Deliberately refusing to provide support for one's child can be classified as a misdemeanor. Leaving the State of residency with the intent to avoid paying child support, or allowing payments to fall into arrears for more than a year, can result in felony charges.

If you or a loved one need legal representation in your child support case, call VanDerGinst Law at 1-866-843-7367 or click here for a FREE online case evaluation. Your initial consultation is guaranteed free of charge. During that visit, we will be able to tell you up front what we may be able to do for you, as well as what the attorney fees would be for your case. Our fees are always competitive, so don't hesitate to contact us and learn how we can help.

More Information

Child Support Glossary - A list of terms and organizations that relate to child support negotiations.

Links on the Web

Handbook on Child Support Enforcement - A guide to help you get the child support payments your children need and deserve. Although it is written for people who are working through Child Support Enforcement offices, it will also be useful to parents who are working with private attorney