Turn to a Trusted and Experineced Child Support Attorney in Southern California
Child support is a legal obligation that ensures children receive the financial support they need for their upbringing when their parents live separately. While some parents can agree on child support amounts and schedule without involving the court, often, they require the help of a child support attorney. As a top child support attorney in Southern California, Vatani Heinz Law is committed to helping you understand, calculate, and enforce child support orders effectively.
Understanding Child Support
Child support refers to the financial support that a non-custodial parent is legally obligated to provide for the care and upbringing of their child or children. The purpose of child support is to ensure that children have their basic needs met and that they can maintain a standard of living similar to what they would have had if their parents were living together. It is based on the principle that both parents share the financial responsibility for their children, even after separation (paternity action) or divorce (dissolution of marriage).
How Child Support is Calculated in California
The specific amount of child support is dependent upon several factors. California utilizes an official Guideline Calculation Formula in most child support cases. This formula considers several essential family factors:
- Number of children
- Duration each parent has the child in their care
- Income of each parent
- Tax filing status and potential tax deductions of each parent
In addition to the guideline calculation, courts may order extra child support payments, known as “add-ons.” These may encompass healthcare expenses, including vision and dental care, as well as childcare necessary for a parent’s employment, education, or training. Courts also have the authority to order payments for a child’s education, special needs, or a parent’s travel expenses for visitation.
Enforcing Child Support Orders
Child support orders are legally binding, and parents are required to comply with them. Where enforcement is necessary, various methods can be employed:
- Wage Garnishment
- Levies
- Contempt
- Suspension of driver’s licenses
- Suspension of professional licenses
- Potential criminal prosecution.
It is also important to note that unpaid child support accrues interest that can often surpass the initial amount owed. With the strict penalties, if your financial situation has changed, and you cannot meet your current child support obligations, it is crucial to seek immediate help from a child support attorney. Your attorney can help you request a modification of the existing child support order in court.
Ensure Your Children Are Well-Cared for in Newport Beach, CA, by Contacting an Experienced Child Support Attorney
At Vatani Heinz Law APC, located amidst the scenic beauty of Newport Beach, from the luxurious shores of Balboa Island to the bustling atmosphere of the Newport Center, we are dedicated to ensuring that child support matters are addressed with precision and fairness, always with the well-being of your children at the forefront.
If you require a skilled and compassionate child support attorney familiar with the unique aspects of Southern California and specifically Newport Beach, contact us today at (949) 999-2121 to schedule your complimentary consultation and take a significant step towards securing your children’s future in this vibrant community.