San Diego Child Support Lawyer

Securing Fair Child Support Agreements in California

Under California law, all parents have a duty to provide financial support for their children. Either parent may request child support. This issue is often addressed during the divorce process, but support may be requested at any time when parents are not married.

Because each situation is unique, it can be helpful to seek the advice of an experienced San Diego child support lawyer. At Embry Family Law P.C., we make sure our clients are receiving or paying the appropriate amount of support.

If you have questions about child support, contact our San Diego child support attorney for a personalized consultation.

Calculating Child Support in California

California has specific guidelines for child support. These guidelines use a formula to calculate support payments, which considers:

• The number of children
• The custody arrangement
• Healthcare costs
• Education costs
• Childcare expenses

In most situations, the amount shown in the guideline formula is presumed to be correct. The court may deviate from the guideline but will generally only do so in unique cases.

Comprehensive Child Support Coverage in California

Child support payments should cover food, clothing, housing, education and other essentials. Other expenses can be ordered by the judge or agreed to by the parents, such as:

• Childcare;
• Medical bills;
• Travel costs for visitation; and
• Extracurricular activities.

Can Parents Agree To No Child Support in California?

Under California Family Code, if the court orders one or both parents to contribute to child support, the parents legally cannot refuse these orders. Since financial support is integral to taking care of the child, waiving child support is considered to be against the child’s best interests.

Adjusting Child Support Payments: When and How

Child support payments generally continue until the child reaches the age of 18, or 19 if the child has not graduated from high school. The amount of child support awarded may not be appropriate in the future. If there is a change of circumstances, the court may modify the original order by either increasing or decreasing the payment amounts.

Child support may be modified if one party has experienced a significant change, such as:

• Job loss
• Promotion
• Change in income
• Severe illness or injury
• Loss of a loved one
• Relocation

Understanding Child Support Modification in California

After a child support order is established, there may come a time when a modification is necessary due to changes in circumstances such as income, living arrangements, or the child's needs. In California, parents can request a modification of child support if there has been a significant change in circumstances since the last order was established.

Some common reasons for seeking a modification include:

• Loss of job or change in employment status
• Increase in the child's needs or expenses
• Change in custody or visitation arrangements
• Healthcare or medical needs of the child

Our San Diego child support lawyers can help you navigate the process of seeking a modification, gather the necessary documentation, and present a compelling case to the court to ensure that the child support order reflects the current circumstances and needs of your child.

How Child Support Benefits Your Child's Well-Being

Child support plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial security and well-being of your child. It helps cover the costs of their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and shelter, as well as their educational expenses, healthcare, and extracurricular activities.

By receiving child support, you can provide your child with:

• Stability: Child support ensures that your child's living situation remains stable, even after a divorce or separation. It helps maintain their standard of living and provides a sense of security.
• Access to Resources: With child support, you can provide your child with the resources they need to thrive. This includes access to quality education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities that contribute to their overall development.
• Equal Opportunities: Child support helps level the playing field for your child, ensuring they have the same opportunities as their peers. It helps bridge any financial gaps and ensures they can participate in activities that promote their growth and well-being.
• Emotional Support: By receiving child support, you can focus on providing emotional support to your child without the added stress of financial burdens. This allows you to create a nurturing and loving environment that promotes their emotional well-being.

At Embry Family Law P.C., we understand the importance of child support in securing your child's future. Our experienced San Diego child support lawyers are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure your child's best interests are protected.

Can a Lawyer Help Reduce a Child Support Order?

Before you file a modification request for adjustment on a custody agreement, your attorney will need any additional evidence including:

• Tax returns
• Pay stubs
• Bank statements
• Letter of employment termination
• Other financial information that may be relevant

It is recommended to hire a child support lawyer in San Diego for guidance on a motion to modify request. Our San Diego child support attorney has the legal knowledge and experience necessary to ensure that child support is correctly calculated, that all special circumstances have been considered, and that you are paying or receiving the right amount of support. When circumstances change, our California child support lawyer can help you request a modification.

For expert assistance with child support matters, reach out to our San Diego team at (619) 485-6476 today.