Ventura Child Support Attorneys

Both parents have a legal obligation to provide their child with financial support whether they are married or divorced. Calculating child support is up to the court’s discretion and relies on a specific formula. If you need legal advice on how to determine child support, it is best to seek the counsel of an experienced lawyer.

California Child Support Factors

Child support in California is determined using a formula called a guideline calculation that takes certain factors into consideration. Some of the factors that help the court determine how much child support each parent is responsible for include:

• Each parent’s income, including how much each earns or will earn
• The number of children the parents have together
• The amount of time each parent spends with their child
• Each parent’s tax filing status
• Each parent’s health insurance expenses
• Each parent’s retirement contributions
• The cost of daycare and any other additional childcare needs

In California, a child support order might also ask the parents to divide the cost of:

• Childcare
• Healthcare expenses
• Travel costs associated with visitation
• Educational needs

What Is the Average Amount of Child Support Awarded?

According to Census Bureau statistics, the average amount of child support awarded in the United States was $430 per month. This is an average and should not necessarily be referred to as an example when calculating child support.

Is There a Maximum Amount of Child Support in California?

California is one of the few states that does not put a cap on the amount of child support a spouse can receive. If you have additional questions about how much child support you should pay, contact an experienced lawyer familiar with California child support law.

How Long Will Child Support Last?

The duty of child support continues as to an unmarried child who has attained 18 years of age, is a full-time high school student, and who is not self-supporting until the time the child completes the 12^th grade or attains 19 years of age, whichever occurs first.

Steps for Filing a Child Support Case

Either parent or the child’s legal guardian can open a child support case. Here are the steps you take to obtain a child support order:

1. Fill out and submit your application
2. File a summons and petition
3. Request proof of parentage – in the event you are not married to the other parent
4. File your request for a support order and set a court date
5. Obtain a support order

Because child support cases are not typically as simple as completing steps one through five, it is important to consult with an experienced lawyer for assistance. He/she can walk you through each step and help you enforce a child support order should your spouse refuse to make payments.

Enforcing a Child Support Order

A child support order is legally enforceable. If you refuse to pay child support you could face certain consequences, including driver license’s suspension, revocation of professional licenses, interception of tax refunds, bank and property liens, and more.

California also charges a 10% interest rate on unpaid court orders. If you have trouble paying your child support order, contact a lawyer for help. There are exceptions for individuals experiencing financial issues.

What Our Ventura Child Support Lawyers Offer

Our attorneys have the background and experience you would expect when navigating a complex financial issue resulting from a child support matter. We can assist you with everything from completing forms to explaining court procedures to modifying and/or enforcing a child support order.

When it comes to the future of you and your children, we apply all legal steps to ensure your wellbeing.

Contact us online today or via (805) 222-7818 to get in touch with us about your child support issue.