Child Support
How much a person pays in child support
depends principally on how many children
there are, and how much money each parent
earns. Every state uses a grid, matrix,
or chart generally known as the Child
Support Guidelines or the support table.
The child support guidelines or support
table indicates the amount of obligation
of the parents for child support, based
on the number of children and the combined
earnings of the parents.
In virtually every case, both parents
will be required to complete a financial
statement to advise the court of their
various sources of income, their expenses,
and other financial circumstances. These
financial statements have various names,
such as Statement of Net Worth (New York),
Case Information Statement (New Jersey),
Financial Affidavit (Florida). Usually,
parties are required to supply their
tax returns, pay stubs, and W-2 forms
to the court as well. These days, child
support is calculated using computer
software programs. The programs will
apply certain tax information, and make
appropriate deductions for health insurance
contributions, extraordinary expenses,
and such mandatory payroll deductions
as union dues. Although there is some
uniformity in the way child support is
calculated, each state has its own peculiar
procedures, and the guidelines and tables
used in each state differ because of
diverse economics conditions across the
country.
If you are involved in a child support
case, and especially if you have specific
financial circumstances requiring attention,
you should consult a competent family
lawyer to assist you in preparing the
necessary submissions to the court. |