In California, child support payments are assigned during a divorce or child custody case. Custodial parents receive the payments at the first of every month. The court calculates the payments according to the needs of the children. A Child Support Attorney in Carlsbad, CA can explain how the support payments are calculated.
What Factors Apply to Child Support Payments?
The income of both parents is the starting factor for child support payments, and the court conducts an assessment of their earning capacity. The purpose is to make sure both parents provide the same level of support for the child. The total number of children produced during the marriage also plays a role in calculating the payments, too. If the child has any special needs, the court divides the cost of any medical or academic requirements between the parents.
What Is the Standard Percentage for Child Support?
Currently, the state of California requires 25% of the noncustodial parent’s income for the first child. Typically, 5% is added for each additional child produced during the marriage. In military divorces, the child support payments and alimony cannot exceed 60% of the service member’s income.
What Are the Repercussions for Failing to Pay Child Support?
Any noncustodial parent that fails to pay their child support payments faces serious consequences. The custodial parent is within their rights to report the failure to the court. The noncustodial parent could be arrested if they don’t catch up on their payments.
Can the Custodial Parent Request an Increase?
Yes, the custodial parent has the right to request an increase in child support payments. They must explain why the increase is needed. Some states provide a cost of living increase for the custodial parent. Others provide increases if the custodial parent loses their job or if their income is reduced.
In California, child support payments are assigned during a child custody hearing, and the noncustodial parent submits the payments each month. The court manages and monitors child support payments in some cases. The total number of children produced during the marriage determine the exact monthly payments. Parents who need more information can contact a child support attorney in Carlsbad, CA or visit us for further details now.
