In child support cases, both parents have the responsibility to support
the children that they have in common. Here in the State of Florida, the
party's child support obligation usually ends when the child reaches
the age of majority (18 years old), marries, or becomes financially independent.
There are circumstances in which the obligation of child support may continue
past the age of eighteen for the child.
Consult with an experienced Orlando
family law attorneys at
Longwell Lawyers so we can explain to you whether or not this may apply in your matter.
How to Calculate Your Child Support Obligation
The amount of child support obligation that each party is responsible for
is calculated based upon the Florida Child Support Guidelines Worksheet.
In order to calculate each party share of their respective child support
obligation, the following information is considered (a) the net income
of each of the parties; (b) any childcare expenses; (c) medical insurance
coverage provided for the children; and (d) any adjustments for any substantial
overnight contact.
Other factors that are involved in child support are (a) who claims the
dependency deduction for tax purposes; (b) the method of payment (i.e.,
direct payment, income deduction order.); and (c) the amount of support.
There is some flexibility that is allowed for a deviation in the child
support obligation amount; however, any deviation requires an explanation
to the Court in the Order as to the reasons for the deviation.
One of the most important issues to remember in reference to child support
is as follows- if you are not receiving child support from the other parent,
it does not necessarily give you the right to withhold visitation. Just
as well, if you are not able to exercise visitation with the child because
of the interference of the other parent, it does not give you the right
to withhold child support. These actions are not legal and require the
reprimand of the Court.
Call our Orlando
child support attorneys today to schedule your free case evaluation: (888) 490-5333.