How do I start the process of getting child support?
Child support is established when one parent has primary custody and the other parent is expected to contribute to the necessary child expenses. In Connecticut, you may only receive child support if a court issues an order. You might be entitled to child support if:
- You have custody and/or the child lives with you
- The other parent can be located
- The court issues an order
- The other parent can afford to pay child support
The court order will outline the support amount you receive and any related provisions, for example, provisions regarding health insurance or childcare. Even if parties agree to child support without seeking formal legal representation, the court must approve and issue an order. Starting the process to file for and receive child support can be stressful and complicated, you may want to contact a Stamford, CT child support attorney to discuss your options.
How much child support will I get?
The amount of child support you will receive is carefully calculated. It is not on arbitrary. Child support orders issued in Stamford, CT follow the Connecticut Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines. This is the court’s calculation process for setting the required payment amount. These calculations can be complex and take into account both parents’ income and the number of children. When relevant, the court will also consider variables like medical insurance and childcare. The court must follow the Guidelines unless it has a good reason for noting a change away from such. When circumstances change, the court can reevaluate the amount of child support.
How do I receive my child support?
The most common way that child support is paid is through direct wage withholding. An employer is obligated to withhold the appropriate child support amount pursuant to the court order. Income can be from actual wages including commissions and bonuses, worker’s compensation, retirement benefits, and unemployment income. This income withholding is then paid to the recipient parent. If a noncustodial parent fails to pay child support, there can be serious consequences including property liens, credit bureaus reporting and even jail time. Our lawyers understand how to enforce child support orders and they can assist you in this process and explore every possible way to ensure you receive the amount of child support you need and deserve.
Can I get the child support amount changed?
Life happens. Circumstances change. Sometimes a child support order needs to reflect new circumstances (e.g. a big change in your or the other parent’s income). Changes to the child support amount will require new court filings and court order. If you have changed circumstances, contact a Stamford, CT lawyer at our office to assist you.
Our Stamford Child Support Attorneys Can Help
Child support is complicated and emotional. It has a big impact on your finances. You may need help understanding the complexities and help you get a “fair deal.” Contact our office today for a free consultation with a Stamford, CT child support attorney.