California Child Support FAQs and Answers
In the State of California, parents have the responsibility to provide their child with financial support, regardless of their marital status. When parents file for divorce or a legal separation, the court could order either party or both to pay for their child’s living and/or medical expenses. These periodic payments are referred to as “child support”. If you are seeking child support, obtain the support of an experienced family law attorney. Serving clients throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area, the family law attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP can help.
At RM Law Group, LLP., the firm is exceptionally experienced in handling a variety of family law cases, including child custody and support cases. Any family law matter involving minor children is a delicate matter that should be handled with utmost importance. As a parent, you should be able to rely on an attorney who will aggressively fight for your rights and protect your interests. The attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP can provide you with the support you need. Consider contacting them today by calling 888-765-2902 or fill out the online contact form here.
How Child Support is Determined in California
California has a guideline used for determining child support. Family law courts use a standard, statewide formula that uses the parents’ after-tax income along with the time each party has custody of the minor. The court will use this formula along with several other factors to determine the amount of child support that should be paid. All factors are detailed in the California Courts website.
When Does Child Support End?
Based on state laws, court-ordered child support will generally end once the minor: Turns 18, Has graduated high school, Is married, Enters into a domestic partnership, Is emancipated, or Dies.
When a child turns 18 years old but is still enrolled in high school, the parents will continue to be held responsible for the child’s support. The parents, however, can choose to support the minor for longer. If the child is not self-supporting because of physical or mental health conditions, the court can order both parents to continue the support of the dependent child.
Can Child Support Orders Be Modified?
Once a child support order has been made, it can sometimes be necessary to make changes to the original court order at a later time. A parents’ dissatisfaction with the amount of support, however, is not a reason to modify the child support order. Nonetheless, there are valid reasons to request a modification to an order, including the following: A significant change to the income of one parent or both; A change in the visitation timeshare as a result in a modification in the child custody order; and/or A change in the employment status of one or both parents, which results in a change in the guideline reductions (i.e. mandatory retirement, health insurance premiums, and union dues).
Generally, child support obligations do not disappear, decrease, or increase unless one parent takes action with the court to modify or terminate the child support. An exception to this, however, occurs if the child is adopted by another person, such as a step-parent. In this case, the obligor parent’s parental rights will be terminated by the family law court.
Discuss Your Case With an Experienced Family Law Attorney
Under California law, both biological parents of a child have a legal responsibility to financially support their child. When parents divorce or separate, a family law court can order child support to be paid. Determining the exact amount of support is a lengthy, yet serious matter. Consequently, it is important that the support of an experienced family law attorney is obtained.
The Southern California attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP have many years of experience litigating child support cases. To ensure your rights as a parent are protected, consider obtaining the support of the firm. Call the firm at 888-765-2902 or complete the private online contact form here. Contact the dedicated legal team today for a complimentary consultation.
Jason Martinez is a co-founding partner of RM Law Group, LLP. His practice focuses exclusively on California Family Law and community property division, including litigation and settlement of complex and high-conflict divorce and child custody proceedings. Jason understands that divorce and family law issues have long-term effects on all family members, especially the children.
