Child Support
Child support orders
- Ensuring that child support orders are based on accurate information from both parties — which sometimes requires research and investigation to expose hidden income or other unique considerations
- Developing other divorce strategies based on a clear picture of the likely child support order, in full view of tax consequences and other factors
- Resolving child support issues that arise in paternity cases
- Petitioning for or defending against modifications of child support sought due to substantial changes in either party's circumstances or the child's needs
child support modifications
Key Factors in Determining Child Support
California uses a guideline formula to determine the amount of child support, which considers factors such as:
- Parents’ Incomes: The income of both parents, including wages, bonuses, self-employment earnings, and other sources of income.
- Time Spent with Child: The amount of time each parent spends with the child, also known as the “timeshare” or “custodial percentage.”
- Tax Deductions: Tax filing status and allowable deductions, including those for other children and spousal support.
- Health Insurance: The cost of health insurance for the child, which is factored into the support calculation.
- Childcare Expenses: Costs related to childcare that allow a parent to work or attend school.
- Special Needs: Any special needs or extraordinary expenses for the child, such as medical costs or educational expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, child support orders are generally considered public records in California. However, sensitive information such as the names of children or financial details may be kept confidential depending on the case.
In 2024, California introduced updates to its child support laws to adjust the guideline formula used for calculating support. The formula continues to consider both parents’ incomes, the time children spend with each parent, and other important factors.
The average child support payment in California varies depending on factors such as the income of both parents, the amount of time spent with the child, and additional costs like health care or childcare. There is no set amount, as each case is unique.
Generally, child support ends when a child turns 18. However, if the child is still a full-time high school student and not self-supporting, child support may continue until the child turns 19 or graduates, whichever comes first.
Fathers in California have the right to request a fair child support order based on both parents’ incomes and the time spent with the child. Fathers also have the right to petition for modifications if their financial circumstances change.
A mother cannot stop a father from seeing his child without a court order. Both parents have legal rights to visitation unless the court finds that such contact would not be in the child’s best interests.
To obtain a copy of a child support order in California, you can contact the court where the order was issued or request it online through the court’s document retrieval system. Ensure you have proper identification and case information.
