What is child support?
Child support is the money that a non-custodial parent pays to a custodial parent for the support of their child or children. In most cases, child support is paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent on a monthly basis. Child support payments are typically made until the child or children turn 18 years old, but in some cases child support payments may continue until the child or children finish high school.
How is child support calculated in Los Angeles?
Child support calculations vary from state to state, but there are some general guidelines that are followed in most states. Generally, child support is calculated based on the income of both parents, the number of children, and the amount of time each parent spends with the child.
What if the non-custodial parent doesn't pay child support?
If the non-custodial parent does not make their required child support payments, there are a number of actions that can be taken by the custodial parent or the state child support enforcement agency. These actions include wage garnishment, seizure of tax refunds, and denial of passports. The non-custodial parent may also be held in contempt of court and fined or jailed.
How can a Los Angeles child support lawyer help?
A child support lawyer can help you with all aspects of your child support case. If you are a custodial parent, a lawyer can help you file a child support action and enforce an existing child support order. If you are a non-custodial parent, a lawyer can help you with modifications to your child support payments or defense against enforcement actions.
If you have any questions about child support, call Whitmarsh Family Law, P.C. a Los Angeles-based family law firm to answer anything.