Are you trying to establish, modify, or enforce a child support order? Whether you’re the paying parent or the recipient, child support is an important part of making sure your child’s needs are met. However, the legal process can unfortunately feel confusing and quickly become tense.
That said, you’re not alone—a West Hartford child support lawyer can help. We understand how frustrating and stressful child support issues can be, and we are here to carry some of that burden when you hire us as your West Hartford child custody lawyer.
At Rich Rochlin Family Law, we have over 35 years of combined experience. Together, our attorneys have guided parents through the ins and outs of Connecticut child support laws for decades. We’re here to advocate for fairness, accuracy, and a resolution on your behalf.
Connecticut Child Support Guidelines
In Connecticut, child support is based on the state’s Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines. These rules provide a mathematical formula to calculate the amount of child support based on the combined net income of both parents and the number of children involved.
The goal is to ensure that each child maintains a standard of living similar to that which they would have experienced if the parents lived together. The guidelines consider various sources of income, including wages, bonuses, rental income, and other financial resources.
They also account for expenses like health insurance premiums, childcare costs, and unreimbursed medical expenses. Your West Hartford family lawyer can ask the court to also consider the cost of private school tuition or special education needs, if applicable.
Call today for a consultation with a child support lawyer serving West Hartford (860) 357-9158
Deviation From Standard Guidelines
While the guidelines provide a standard calculation, Connecticut law allows for deviations in certain circumstances. A deviation occurs when the court determines that following the standard guidelines would be inequitable or inappropriate in a particular case.
However, it’s worth noting that the court must state the reasons for any deviation in its decision. Here are examples of factors that may justify a deviation in your case:
- Extraordinary expenses: If the child has special needs or requires significant medical or educational services, the court may adjust the support amount to cover these expenses.
- Income disparities: If one parent earns a much higher level of income than the other, the court may increase the support amount to reflect the child’s lifestyle.
- Shared custody arrangements: In cases where parents share physical custody, the court may adjust the support amount to account for the time the child spends in each home.
- Other financial resources: If a parent has additional financial resources not included in the standard calculation, the court may consider these when determining support.
- Additional circumstances: The court may also consider other factors that affect the child’s well-being, such as the parents’ ability to provide for the child.
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Modification of Child Support Orders
Child support orders are not set in stone. They can be altered when either parent’s situation changes significantly. These are a few frequently occurring reasons for changing orders relating to child support:
- Change in income levels: If a parent’s income decreases or increases significantly, the court may adjust the support amount accordingly.
- Change in custody arrangements: If the amount of time the child spends with each parent changes, the court may modify the support order to reflect this change.
- Change in child’s needs: If the child has new needs, such as medical treatment or educational changes, the court may adjust how much support should be provided.
To request a modification, a parent must file a Motion for Modification with the court and demonstrate that there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the last order. The court will then review the request and determine whether a modification is appropriate.
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Enforcement of Child Support Orders
Ensuring that child support orders are followed is crucial for the child’s well-being. In Connecticut, several enforcement mechanisms are available:
- Wage garnishment: The court can order that child support payments be deducted directly from a parent’s paycheck.
- Property liens: If a parent fails to pay support, the court may place a lien on their property.
- License suspension: The court can suspend various licenses, including driving, professional, and recreational licenses, for non-payment of child support.
- Contempt of court: If a parent willfully fails to comply with a child support order, they may be held in contempt of court, which can result in fines or imprisonment.
The Support Enforcement Services (SES) division of the Connecticut Department of Social Services is responsible for monitoring and enforcing child support orders. Parents can contact SES for assistance with enforcement issues.
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The Role a West Hartford Child Support Attorney Can Play in Your Child Support Case
Attorneys specializing in family law can provide valuable assistance in understanding and managing child support obligations. They can help parents like you with the following:
- Understanding the guidelines: Attorneys can explain how the child support guidelines apply to your specific situation.
- Requesting modifications: If circumstances change, attorneys can assist in filing motions for modification of child support orders.
- Enforcing orders: Attorneys can help enforce child support orders through the appropriate legal channels.
- Resolving disputes: If disagreements arise regarding child support, attorneys can represent you in negotiations or court proceedings.
Call Our Child Support Law Firm in West Hartford to Learn More About What We Can Do For You
Whether you’re trying to secure a new child support order or working to enforce an existing one, you may find the process daunting and difficult to handle. At Rich Rochlin Family Law, our West Hartford child support lawyers are here to stand beside you every step of the way.
We can help you make sure your child’s financial needs are properly addressed and prioritized moving forward. No matter where you are in the process, we’re here to help you pursue a fair and lasting solution.
Don’t wait to reach out. The sooner you contact our child support lawyers in West Hartford, the sooner we can start working to protect your child’s future and stability.
Let us help navigate your family legal matters schedule your consultation now.
