How Child Support is Defined in California
In the State of California, child support refers to the amount of money one parent is court-ordered to pay the other each month for the costs of raising their child. A family law judge will determine what the amount of support will be based on a guideline that is used state-wide. Although this may seem straightforward, determining child support is often a contentious matter that can take a prolonged time to resolve. If you need to determine what the fair amount of child support will be in your specific case, you will need to speak to a well-versed family law attorney. With many years of dedicated experience in the field of family law, the attorneys at RM Law Group, LLP can help protect your rights and interests in this and other family law matters.
RM Law Group, LLP excels in family law cases, including contentious child support cases. Well-versed in the laws surrounding child support, the law firm will work aggressively to ensure you can secure the best possible child support agreement. When facing a family law matter, obtain proficient legal representation – consider contacting RM Law Group, LLP today.
How Child Support is Determined
The laws concerning child support are determined at the state level. In California, every parent has a legal responsibility to oversee the financial stability of his or her child. California family law courts will determine whether a parent needs to pay or receive child support based on the amount of time the child spends with each parent and each parent’s ability to make payments.
The Duration of Child Support
Once a parent has been court-ordered to make child support payments, the payments will need to continue until the child: Has turned of legal age, Has graduated from high school, Has married, Has passed away, Has been legally emancipated, or Has joined the military.
It should be noted that if the child is considered a full-time student or has a medical incapacity, the support may continue. Also, it is possible that the court may order both parties to pay support if the minor is considered disabled and dependent.
The California Income and Expense Declaration
Every parent is required to complete a form referred to as an Income and Expense Declaration. The form must be completed under penalty of perjury and it will be used to prove each parent’s income. Once the form has been completed by both parties, a judge will use this to assess each parent’s “net disposable income” and use the state guideline calculator to determine the amount of support payments.
Hire an Experienced Attorney by Your Side
When it comes to child support in the State of California, the legal counsel you hire may be able to achieve the best potential outcome in your case. Child support cases are often contentious, and courts can also have difficulty in determining the amount of support that should be paid. For this reason, it is in your best interest to obtain qualified legal support to advocate on your behalf.
RM Law Group, LLP is skilled in a wide range of family law cases, including child custody and support. When facing difficult family law matters, obtain the support of a trusted, respected, and highly qualified family law attorney to represent your case – RM Law Group, LLP can help. Consider scheduling a complimentary consultation with RM Law Group, LLP today.
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.
