Newport Beach Child Support Lawyers
Understanding California’s Child Support Laws
At Kovach Family Law, we understand how important it is to make sure your children are provided for. That’s why we offer comprehensive child support services to families in Newport Beach and throughout Orange County. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you understand and navigate the complexities of child support laws, as well as ensure that your children’s best interests are protected.
Our team can provide the knowledgeable and reliable legal counsel you need. We have extensive experience in all aspects of California child support law, including determining child support amounts, modifying existing child support orders, and enforcing child support orders.
For a complimentary consultation with one of our Newport Beach child support lawyers, call (877) 782-0445 or contact us online.
How Child Support Works
Child support is when a parent pays money to help take care of a child. It is typically paid by a non-custodial parent, meaning the parent who does not live with the child full-time. Child support payments help cover the costs of raising a child, such as expenses related to food, housing, medical care, education, and recreational activities.
Child support payments can be ordered by a court or agreed upon between both parents in an informal arrangement. In California, parents are typically responsible for paying for a child’s various expenses until the child turns 18 and graduates high school. If a child is still in high school when they turn 18, and they are not able to financially support themselves, child support payments may be enforced until the child turns 19.
How Is Child Support Calculated?
In California, child support payments are determined by law. The court decides how much money one parent must pay the other parent for child support based on a variety of factors, as well as certain set calculations.
The court typically considers the following factors when awarding child support:
- Both parents' incomes
- How many children the couple has
- Each parent's financial resources
- Each parent’s earning capacity
- Health insurance costs
- Any special needs of the child
What Happens If Someone Fails to Pay Child Support?
Child support payments must be made on time and in full unless there are special circumstances. Failure to pay child support can result in the parent being held in contempt of court, having their wages garnished or even facing jail time. It is important for parents to understand the specifics of their child support order and abide by them.
At Kovach Family Law, our Newport Beach child support attorneys assist clients with enforcing court-ordered child support payments. For more information, contact our firm today.
Modifying a Child Support Order
If there has been an increase or decrease in either parent's income since the original child support order was issued, the court can modify or change the amount of child support payments. In such cases, both parents must file a petition with the court to adjust the existing order. The court will then take into consideration all relevant factors and decide on whether to modify the order.
How Is Child Support Paid?
When a court orders child support, the payments are usually made directly from one parent to another. In some cases, payments may be made through an administrative agency or other official entity. The court will consider the income of both parents, any tax deductions, and any other relevant factors when determining the appropriate amount of child support that should be paid.
Child support payments are usually considered a form of taxable income, which means they can affect an individual's taxes. If you receive child support payments, it is important that you keep accurate records of these payments, including any court documents. If you are paying child support, be sure to make all payments on time and in full.
Contact Our Child Support Attorneys for a Free Consultation
At Kovach Family Law, we understand that child support cases can be emotionally challenging. That’s why we strive to provide our clients with compassionate and respectful service throughout the process. We’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and goals, and we’ll work with you to find the best solution for your family.
If you need help with a child support issue, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced team of attorneys. We’re here to help you get the financial support your children need and deserve.
Call us today at (877) 782-0445 or contact us online to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Why Choose Kovach Family Law?
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