Chicago Child Support Lawyers
We know child support agreements, are not always smooth sailing and are oftentimes complicated. Are you a single parent struggling to make ends meet and support your child? Have you been unable to collect the court-ordered child support from your ex?
Perhaps it’s time to call an experienced Chicago Child Support Lawyer. An attorney from our Offices can assist with collecting what is rightfully yours, as well as help you reduce or avoid paying child support if necessary. Buchanan Law Group is ready to help.
It may add to the stress of both parents trying to figure out how they will manage their lives in the future. This often entails determining who pays for the financial expenses associated with having a child. The difference between living together and living apart is frequently determined by who shoulders the financial responsibilities and difficulties of raising a family.
The experienced family law attorneys at Buchanan Law Group are waiting to help with child support, visitation, judgment modifications, custody agreements, and anything that might add stress on you or your child. Call our Offices today to discuss your case at (312) 248-6170.
How Are Child Support Payments Determined in Child Support Cases?
Child support payments are determined by state guidelines, and they generally factor in the combined income of both parties and the number of overnights awarded to each parent. In certain circumstances, the child’s needs can also factor into the amount of support that is needed to be paid. Some needs your child my warrant include:
- Child expenses like food, clothing, and medical insurance.
- Health Care Expenses: Payments made to a health care provider for the child’s coverage. This can be given as a separate award, in many cases, along with expenses for child care or daycare costs.
- Extraordinary medical or educational expenses
What Can I Do If The Court Ordered Payments Have Not Been Coming or Have Stopped?
If a court-ordered payment schedule has been broken, a few steps can be taken in the matter:
- Request payment options: There may be room to negotiate and offer alternative payments such as paid weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or even with no set schedule at all. Indicate what would work best for both of your schedules and agree to it.
- File a motion to enforce the order: This is only an option if they’re not paying as per the terms of the agreement. If their work schedule has changed then attempt alternate arrangements and negotiations.
- Seek court intervention: You or your lawyer can bring your case to court and ask that the order be reinstated. If you have any receipts or other documentation proving that the child support payments are being missed, it can go a long way in supporting your claim. Our skilled attorneys have years of experience in the matter and are ready to help answer any questions that you may have.
What Can A Chicago Child Support Lawyer Do For Me?
Child support arrangements are a serious matter and affect the child’s well-being, so it is best to have an experienced lawyer that has your interests at heart. Child support proceedings can be very stressful, but our firm has helped many parents in their time of need.
When you work with Buchanan Law Group your child support case will be handled by an experienced attorney who understands what is required for both parents, as well as the best interest of the children involved in the situation. We are here to listen to any concerns you might have about arrangements made with your ex-spouse regarding child support payments.
We’ll be able to help determine if changes should or must be made so that everyone involved is satisfied with the outcome.
Calculating Child Support Payments
Calculating child support payments in Illinois involves several factors, primarily focusing on the combined net income of both parents. Illinois law recognizes the income share model, which aims to ensure that children receive the same proportion of parental income as they would if the parents were living together.
To determine child support, the court considers the net incomes of both parents, accounting for deductions such as taxes and health insurance premiums. The basic child support obligation is calculated based on the parents’ combined income and the number of children involved. This obligation is then divided between the parents according to their respective net incomes.
Additional expenses, such as child care expenses, medical expenses, and educational expenses, may also be factored into the child support order. The noncustodial parent typically pays child support to the custodial parent to help cover these costs, ensuring the child’s well-being and maintaining their standard of living.
It’s important to note that child support calculations can be complex, and any substantial change in circumstances, such as a change in income or parenting time, may require a modification of the child support order. Consulting with experienced child support lawyers, like those at Buchanan Law Group, can provide guidance and help ensure that support payments are fair and in the best interests of the children involved.
When Should I Call A Child and Spousal Support Attorney?
In some cases, complications may arise between parents after a child support agreement was made. In these cases, you will want to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. When the other parent fails to accommodate your child support agreement, it should be brought forth by filing documents with the court that are able to enforce your request.
Contact our Offices today by calling (312) 248-6170. We know this can be a stressful situation and can help walk you through every step of the way. The sooner you contact our Offices, the sooner we can be there to relieve some of the stress this may be bringing to you and your family during a child support case.