Child support is a monetary payment that a noncustodial parent pays toward the living expenses of their children. The amount of child support is based primarily on the noncustodial parent’s net income in Utica, although factors such as medical insurance costs, day care and school expenses and living arrangements can be considered. Although child support payments often can be agreed upon between parents, a knowledgeable Utica family lawyer can explain how it is calculated and help you finalize fair, precise terms.
The payment of child support in Utica is determined by the court taking into account the best interest of the child. It is not intended to be punishment for the parent that is required to pay support, nor should it be considered a windfall for the parent receiving support.
There are a number of factors that impact the final child support amount and an experienced Utica child custody attorney can help make a strong and reasoned argument that best supports your position. Some of the factors that the court may consider in determining a fair child support amount are the incomes of both parents, the custody arrangement as well as any special needs of the children.
Not following a court order or judgment regarding child support can cause hardship to the other party. As a result, the New York court system takes these violations seriously, and a contempt action can result. Depending on the specific circumstances, consequences of a contempt action can include wage garnishment, money judgments and even possible incarceration of the offending party.
If, for any reason, your former spouse fails to live up to his or her payment obligations in Utica, we can assist you with enforcement of court-ordered child support.
If you are the non-custodial parent paying child support, don’t wait until the court holds you in contempt for failing to abide by the terms of your divorce settlement or court order. The child support attorneys at New York Lawyers Team will help you to establish manageable child support agreements. We also offer experienced legal counsel in Utica in the modification and enforcement of existing orders of support.
In the event of unforeseen circumstances such as illness, injury, loss of gainful employment or change in the child’s needs, a situation may present itself that requires a modification to the amount of child support to be paid.
To modify a standing child support agreement in Utica, you need to prove that there has been a substantial material change in the circumstances for a parent or child.
Requests for modification can often be made based on the following changes:
If you find yourself faced with one of the conditions mentioned above, our experienced family law attorneys can assist you with required document preparation and legal representation to petition the court in an effort modify the amount of child support you are required or pay or are entitled to receive.
At New York Lawyers Team, we provide personal, professional representation for a wide range of child support matters. Whether you need to establish child support or are in need of assistance with child support collection or modification, we are prepared to guide you through every step of the process. Our Utica child support attorneys are dedicated to helping you obtain the best possible outcome to your situation.