Child Support

Child support matters can be extremely contentious, whether you are in the process of divorcing, already divorced, or parents of a child or children who have never been married. Occasionally, there are instances on which the parent who is ordered to pay support fails to comply. There are also situations in which a custodial parent may not ask for child support initially, but decides to at a later date because of financial or other reasons. At Adams & Luka, our child support attorneys are dedicated to helping resolve and understand issues involving children to the satisfaction of our clients. As dedicated family law attorneys, we urge you to contact our office today so that we can provide you with effective legal guidance and help you understand the laws regarding child support in Florida.

As is the case in most states, the subject of child support is fairly straightforward. As you might expect, the higher the income of the parent who will be required to pay child support, the more that parent will pay. The judge can deviate from the formula used to determine support due to certain factors such as a child who has special needs, whether the child/children attend private school, etc.

Much in the way spousal support or alimony are decided by a judge, the amount paid in child support may also be based on the parents' net incomes. The biggest factor in determining the amount of child support a parent will be required to pay is the parent's ability to pay.

The amount of child support paid by one parent to the other for the support of the child/children may be modified under certain circumstances. Why would you want to have the amount of child support modified? Depending on whether you are the paying or receiving parent, there may be substantial changes in income, or the children involved may be spending more time with the non-custodial parent. Child support orders may be modified when there is a significant change in circumstances, and the order is still in effect for six months (not scheduled to terminate within that time).

Some of the changes in circumstances which may result in modification to child support include:

• Either parent becomes disabled
• Prolonged illness
• Involuntary loss of income or job with parent who pays support
• Parent receiving support has an increase in income
• Child's needs decrease (for instance, child becomes school age and no longer requires day care)
• The child/children begin spending the majority of their time with the paying parent

The process of establishing child support can be not only complex, but stressful as well. Regardless of whether you were married, when parents decide the relationship is not working, the future can be uncertain and even frightening not only for the parents, but the children as well. The determination of which parent will pay child support and the amount may have a tremendous impact on your life. At Adams & Luka, we know that every case is unique, and that having a compassionate, knowledgeable attorney is key to efficient resolution of these issues. We urge residents of Central Florida to call us today at 407-872-0303 or 352-357-4084.