Questions Relating To Child Support

Before a divorce is even set in motion, those considering going their separate ways may have a multitude of questions relating to the support of their children. The single and central point of concern for most parents is the future and wellbeing of their children.  How much child support will I pay in Florida? How much will I receive? Another common question relating to child support that a family lawyer often hears is “when do I stop paying?”. 

It is important that you understand that there is no clear-cut amount that you will pay for Child Support. Every situation is different and child support is based on a few varying factors including income, time-sharing schedule, and additional payments for health insurance, child care, and alimony.  You may have tried to investigate or research Florida child support on your own, please know that any figure that a family member or friend has relayed or suggested to you is not accurate because it will not apply to your situation. This is why it is important to work with an experienced Family Law Attorney.

Why Is My Friend Paying His Ex Less Money?

An attorney will often hear that a friend is paying less support or that a cousin is receiving more. Indeed, you may have to pay more, and likewise, you may receive less.  Both of the parent’s financial information (monthly income) and time-sharing arrangement (number of overnights spent with the children) will be taken into consideration, as well as other factors such as the children’s health insurance cost, child care cost, and whether either spouse pays or receives alimony. Understand that it is not a one-size-fits-all process so, financial figures will vary from one case to another.

As for when child support ends. Here are some elements that may precede the end of child support:

• The child turns 18 of age and is not in school (continued education may require continued support through college)
• The child is under the age of 18 but is legally married
• The child elected to emancipate from the parent
• Child support guidelines render no support payments based on close to equal financial circumstances and time-sharing schedule
• The parties enter into an agreement to deviate from the child support guidelines and no longer pay/receive and the Court agrees to such deviation

As mentioned above, these are just some of the instances in which you may be able to stop support, however, as noted, these conditions would precede the end of child support and thus, you will have to petition the court in order to terminate your support payments. For more detailed information about your particular and unique circumstances and options, it is best to speak to a Naples Family Attorney.

It is critical that you understand that you cannot cease support payments on your own, the latter is considered a crime and as such, you must seek the court’s approval prior to ending support.

Extended or Continued Support

In the same manner, in which the court allows for early termination or termination of child support, there are also unique circumstances where you may have to continue paying support. Continued support may be applicable if your child was born with or developed an illness or a disability, the same is true if your child has special needs.

Get Help With Child Support

If you need assistance, you will need a qualified and compassionate Florida Family Law attorney to guide you through the process. Contact our office today for immediate assistance or for a consultation at 239-591-6248.