      
   4.9144 reviews

Key Questions Answered About Custody Cases

Request a Case Review

Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C.

10b9db026d89119e951a851045ac17eee7784f79

Written/Reviewed By:

Barry S. Kantrowitz, Esq.

Last Updated: Jun 21, 2023

Read Time: 3 mins

Family Attorneys

Family attorneys understand that child support in custody situations can often feel like an intricate labyrinth. Understanding the complex elements is crucial to ensuring the best for your children, even when life takes unexpected turns. Our friends at The McKinney Law Group offers the answers to five commonly asked questions about determining child support in custody situations, offering clarity and insight into this nuanced topic.

What factors determine child support?

Child support determination largely depends on three factors: each parent’s income, the custody arrangement, and the child’s needs. Courts consider both parents’ earnings or earning capabilities, including wages, bonuses, dividends, and benefits. They also assess each parent’s time with the child in custody arrangements. Lastly, the child’s requirements, such as education, healthcare, daycare, and special needs, significantly influence the calculation. It’s essential to understand that these factors vary considerably case by case, reflecting each family’s unique circumstances.

How does shared custody impact child support?

Shared custody can have a significant influence on child support. In these arrangements, both parents are typically responsible for a portion of child-related expenses. The more time a parent spends with the child, the more directly they provide for the child’s needs, which might reduce the child support they owe. However, if one parent has a significantly higher income, they may still be required to pay child support to ensure the child’s standard of living is consistent across both households.

How are child support payments enforced?

Child support payments are legally binding. If a parent fails to fulfill their obligation, enforcement measures can be taken, including wage garnishment, seizure of property, suspension of licenses, and, in extreme cases, jail time. It’s crucial to remember that child support is a right of the child, not the custodial parent. Therefore, courts are committed to enforcing these agreements vigorously.

Can child support orders be changed?

Yes, child support orders can be modified. However, changes typically require significant shifts in circumstances, such as a dramatic increase or decrease in income, adjustments to custody arrangements, or a considerable change in the child’s needs. Approaching the court formally for such modifications, rather than making informal agreements between parents, is crucial to ensure legal protection and enforcement.

How does the court determine the amount of child support?

The court utilizes specific guidelines and formulas to calculate child support. These guidelines consider parents’ incomes, the number of children, healthcare costs, daycare expenses, and the time each parent spends with the children. Every state has its child support calculator, but these calculators are primarily a guideline, and the court can deviate from the calculated amount based on unique circumstances.

Determining child support in custody situations can be complex, but understanding the factors that influence the process can bring some predictability to an otherwise uncertain situation. Key considerations include:

Each parent’s income
The custody arrangement
The child’s needs
The potential for change in circumstances
The legal measures in place for enforcement

Ultimately, the well-being of the child is paramount. Thus, the process must be navigated with the child’s best interest at the forefront and, ideally, with the guidance of legal counsel. Child support isn’t merely a financial obligation; it’s a commitment to safeguarding your child’s future, irrespective of the shifts in familial dynamics.

Why Trust Us?

150+ Reviews

50+ Years of Service

Full-Service Law Firm

Client Reviews

    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   Kenny Perlow 
 15 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. KGG Law, and Barry Kantrowitz in particular, set the bar high for what a thorough, practical, strategic, compassionate and smart lawyer can be. Everything about Barry's advice and representation was exemplary and the stress mitigation that resulted was invaluable. On top of that, the ultimate result Barry achieved was beyond what was reasonable to expect and we are forever grateful. Often, people say that you hire a lawyer to prevent a problem. Sometimes, unfortunately, you need an attorney to solve a problem and I could not recommend Barry and his firm any more highly in that regard.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Aliza Ali 
 79 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My dad had a great experience with this law firm. From the very beginning, the team was professional, knowledgeable, and always willing to answer our questions. They kept us informed throughout the entire process and made what could have been a very stressful situation much easier to handle. We truly appreciated their dedication, honesty, and hard work. Thanks to their support, my dad felt confident every step of the way. We are very grateful for everything they did and would highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for reliable legal representation.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Jana Montero 
 82 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a wonderful experience working with Sam Smith. He was very responsive, thorough, and easy to work with from start to finish. He walked me through everything clearly and made what started as a very stressful situation for me into something completely manageable. I would not hesitate to recommend him and the firm!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Mike Sakmann 
 88 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I sought legal advice regarding an employment matter and had an excellent experience working with Sam Smith, Esq. at KGG Law. Sam was thorough, attentive, and took the time to listen carefully to my concerns before providing clear, thoughtful guidance. I appreciated the professionalism and care shown throughout the process, and I would confidently recommend KGG Law to anyone in need of legal assistance.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Liz Hecker 
 94 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't say enough about this firm. They manage to comfort you during the whole legal process while staying professional and doing what is right. I would recommend them to anyone and also hire them again if I need legal help.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Brandy Miller 
 117 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kate is the best. She helped me very quickly, and was very attentive with all of my needs. So thankful for her
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Mike Greenspan 
 130 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Kate Carballo is a dedicated, passionate, and creative attorney whom I had the pleasure to lecture with at a state trial lawyer's conference. Kate's lecture demonstrated how she uses her innovative and "out-of-the-box thinking" to achieve outstanding results for her injured clients. That Kate is certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a civil trial attorney is a testament to her skills, experience and commitment to excellence.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Jonathan Sampson 
 137 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Was referred to KGG law by a friend and could not have asked for better legal representation. They walked me through every step of the process after my accident and began every call with “ how are you feeling” which was just one example of how much they care about their clients. They handled my case very efficiently, professionally and courteously. My attorney Kate Carballo was a rock star! So clearly experienced, she consistently made me feel at ease with the process. Highly recommend
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Vinnie Kung 
 140 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a great experience with the team at KGG Law. While it was a traumatic time for our family, they made it very easy for us and explained all of our options. They even performed due diligence to make sure that after our settlement, there would be no further issues which I think is even more important than the settlement itself. Thank you!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   Lynn Gill 
 141 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The personnel at this business were second to none. Everyone was super responsive and amazing to work with. For any future legal needs, this will be my go-to, hands down.

see all reviews

Key Questions Answered About Custody Cases

Family Attorneys

Why Trust Us?

Rockland County, New York

Bergen County, New Jersey