Child support is one of the biggest issues to resolve during a divorce or separation involving children. In California, both parents are responsible for ensuring that their child’s financial needs are met, regardless of relationship status. Whether you are seeking support or being asked to pay it, understanding how child support works in California is important. Keep reading to learn what you need to know about the laws surrounding child support, and why working with an experienced child support lawyer in Fontana CA is essential!
How Is Child Support Calculated in California?
California uses a standardized formula to calculate child support that takes several factors into account. The goal is to ensure that the child’s financial needs are met in a way that reflects both parents’ ability to contribute.
The child support formula considers:
- Time that each parent has the child in their custody and control
- Gross income of each parent
- Tax filing status of each parent
- Child care costs
- Other mandatory expenses such as health insurance costs, union dues, and support of other children
Because the formula can be complex, it’s essential to work with a child support lawyer in Fontana CA who can ensure that everything is accurately represented and that the support amount is fair.
How Long Does Child Support Last?
In California, child support typically continues until the child turns 18. However, if the child is still in high school when they turn 18, support will continue until they graduate or turn 19, whichever comes first. There are also special circumstances in which child support may continue beyond this point, such as if the child has a disability that prevents them from becoming self-sufficient.
What Happens If Child Support Payments Are Missed?
Missing child support payments can lead to serious consequences in California. If the paying parent fails to make the required payments, the court can enforce the child support order through wage garnishment or even intercepting tax refunds. In extreme cases, failure to pay child support can result in penalties such as license suspension or jail time.
If you are struggling to keep up with your child support payments due to a change in circumstances, you need to address the issue immediately by seeking a modification. A child support lawyer in Fontana CA can help you file for a modification and present your case to the court.
Why You Need a Child Support Lawyer in Fontana CA
Navigating the child support system in California can be complex. Whether you are seeking child support, required to pay it, or involved in a dispute, having an experienced child support lawyer in Fontana CA by your side can make all the difference. At Kendall Gkikas & Mitchell, LLP, we have 30 years of experience and are dedicated to helping our clients achieve fair child support arrangements. Ready to get started? Contact us today at 909-482-1422 to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you with all aspects of your child support case.
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