Are you going through a divorce? Especially if you have kids, it can be a heart-wrenching time. The emotional and psychological costs can weigh heavily on you, and the financial toll can feel positively overwhelming. Here’s what you generally need to know about paying child support in California. For more specific information about your situation, please schedule a free consultation with Attorney Torrence L. Howell today by calling (909) 920-0908 or emailing info@torrencelhowelllaw.com.
How is child support calculated?
The California Guideline Child Support Calculation Formula is the standard method for determining how much child support payments will be required when a couple who has children divorces. This formula includes factors such as:
- Child care costs
- Tax filing status of each parent
- Gross income of each parent
- Time that each parent has the child in their custody and control
- Other essential mandatory expenses
California courts have the authority to adjust the required amounts of child support payments according to the specifics of each family’s unique situation.
Why are child support payments necessary?
If you and your ex are divorcing amicably, it might not feel necessary to set up a child support agreement. However, we at Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell highly recommend it, no matter what the current situation between you may be. While things may seem smooth-sailing right now, you never know what the future will bring. It’s best to put a legally-bound child support payment agreement in place to avoid lots of stress and hassle down the line.
Every parent has a legal and moral responsibility to provide for their children, even if the parents aren’t married and the family doesn’t live together. Sometimes, when parents divorce or aren’t married to begin with, they’re able to reach child support payment agreements on their own. If they’re unable to reach a child support agreement, they may go to California divorce court, whether the judge will determine how much child support will be required.
Legal assistance with child support agreements
No matter what your situation—whether you’ve reached an agreement with the other parent on your own or plan to go to court—it’s always an excellent idea to speak with a qualified family lawyer about your situation. There may be nuanced aspects of your case that you may not be aware of that may negatively effect your future. Don’t put your family’s financial security at risk—contact Law Offices of Torrence L. Howell to schedule a free initial consultation today. Attorney Torrence L. Howell will analyze the specifics of your situation and offer professional legal advice right away. Call (909) 920-0908, email info@torrencelhowelllaw.com, or click the blue “Free Case Evaluation” at the top right of this page to schedule your complimentary consultation at your earliest convenience.
