California Child Support Guidelines – What You Need To Know
Paramount in every family law case handled in the State of California is the best interests of the children. With every child custody case, the need for child support will also be assessed. In the state, child support is determined by a series of guidelines. Unfortunately, disputes are not uncommon, which may not only complicate an already contentious divorce, they may also add unnecessary costs. When seeking child support obtain the support of an experienced family law attorney. Located in San Bernardino County, the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP can advocate on your and your child’s behalf.
Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP understands how important children are to any responsible parent. As a dedicated family law firm, the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP are devoted to solving family law problems. They seek to efficiently settle arguments on their client’s behalf and they strive to do so with the least financial and emotional toll possible. Consider contacting the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP today. Complete the confidential online form here to obtain an initial consultation.
Child Support Laws in California
Child support laws in the State of California are used to set the amount of support payments one parent must pay the other parent. The purpose of these payments is to provide for the needs of the child. For the most part, the non-custodial parent will pay the parent who has custody of the child.
Family courts in the state use a set of guidelines to calculate the payment obligations. To begin the process, both parents will need to complete an income and expense declaration. In order to do this, parents will need their tax returns, proof of income, and the schedule for which the parents will share custody of the child.
The calculation for child support is based on a mandatory formula: CS = K[HN – (H%)(TN)]. These initials are represented as:
- CS: Child Support
- K: The income total of the parents
- HN: The disposable income for the parent who earns the most among both parties
- H%: The time this parent will spend as the child’s primary caregiver
- TN: The net monthly total of the parents’ disposable income
This formula may appear complicated but its purpose is to reduce unnecessary litigation. It is also designed to provide uniformity across all family courts. Although the formula looks complicated, the support payments will be calculated using the disposable income of the parents as well as the amount of time the parents will spend with the child.
Important Note: Courts may vary from “Guideline Support” upwards or downwards based of various legal and factual arguments. Guideline Support calculations are not utilized for high income earners such as athletes and movie stars. Another standard is utilized, that an attorney can inform you of based on your specific situation and circumstances.
You can see the states calculator here: Calculate Child Support
Obtain the Support of a Qualified Family Law Attorney
Once a family law court orders child support payments, the payments must be made in the amount ordered. A failure to do so can create many difficulties for both parents, as well as the child. To ensure your and your child’s interests are protected, discuss the case with an established family law attorney.
The family law attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP are exceptionally versed in handling complex child support cases. The law firm will fight to ensure any child support obligation is made fair and in the best interests of your child. Consider obtaining the support of the attorneys at Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox, LLP. Complete the online contact form found here to obtain a consultation.
Stephen Levine, is a Board Certified Specialist in Criminal Defense — an honor achieved by only the top criminal law attorneys in California. Mr. Levine has over 40 years of experience in criminal defense and family law serving Southern California, and is a highly regarded Super Lawyer as well as AV Rated attorney.