Orlando Child Support Lawyer

Experienced Advocacy for Your Child Support Needs

At The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A., our experienced legal team is committed to providing comprehensive guidance and support for individuals dealing with child support issues in Orlando. As a leading law firm in the area, we understand the importance of securing a fair and reasonable child support arrangement to ensure the well-being of your children.

Call The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A., today at (407) 624-5344 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our child support attorney in Orlando!

What is Child Support?

Child support is a legal obligation that ensures both parents contribute financially to the upbringing of their children, even if they are no longer in a relationship. This financial support is intended to cover essential expenses such as education, healthcare, and everyday living costs. The primary goal is to prioritize the child's best interests and maintain a living standard consistent with their parents' financial capabilities.

At The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A., we recognize the unique aspects of each child support case and strive to tailor our legal strategies to meet the specific needs of our clients. Our team understands the complexities of child support laws in Florida and is ready to advocate for your rights and the well-being of your children.

How is Child Support Calculated in Florida?

In Florida, child support is calculated by meticulously considering various factors, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the financial responsibilities of both parents. At The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A., we are well-versed in the intricacies of these calculations, ensuring that our clients receive fair and equitable child support arrangements. Key components in the determination of child support in Florida include:

• Income of Both Parents: The court diligently assesses the net income of both parents, taking into account wages, bonuses, and potential earning capacity. This comprehensive evaluation ensures an accurate reflection of each parent's financial resources.
• Number of Children: The number of children involved in the case is crucial in determining the overall child support obligation. Each child's needs are individually considered to arrive at a fair and proportionate contribution from each parent.
• Childcare and Health Care Costs: Additional to the basic support, the court incorporates the costs associated with childcare and health care into the calculation. Recognizing the importance of these expenses, our legal team works tirelessly to ensure that these vital aspects are appropriately factored into the child support arrangement.
• Parenting Time Arrangements: The time each parent spends with the child is a significant factor in determining child support. This includes assessing overnight stays and visitation schedules. Our legal team recognizes the importance of accurately reflecting parenting time to ensure a fair and just determination of child support.
• Special Circumstances: Courts may consider special circumstances impacting the child support calculation. This encompasses a range of factors, including the child's unique needs, educational expenses, and any other relevant considerations that may arise in a particular case.
• Contributions to Extracurricular Activities: Recognizing the child's holistic needs, contributions to extracurricular activities that a parent may make are also considered. This includes expenses related to educational, recreational, or other activities that contribute to the child's overall development.
• Dependents from Other Relationships: If a parent has dependents from other relationships that require financial support, this is factored into the equation. The court considers the broader financial obligations of each parent to ensure a comprehensive and just determination of child support.

What is Child Support Modification?

Child support modification is a legal process that allows for changes to be made to an existing child support order. This modification can involve either an increase or decrease in the amount of child support payments. The primary goal of child support modification is to ensure that the support order remains fair and reflective of the current financial and personal circumstances of both parents and the needs of the child.

Child support orders are initially established based on a variety of factors, including the income of both parents, the needs of the child, and the amount of time each parent spends with the child. Over time, these factors can change significantly, necessitating a review and potential adjustment of the support amount. Child support modification ensures that the financial support provided aligns with these changes, maintaining the best interest of the child.

When Can You Request a Child Support Modification?

In Florida, there are specific circumstances under which you can request a child support modification. Understanding these circumstances is crucial for ensuring that the modification request is timely and appropriate. Here are the primary situations that may warrant a modification:

Significant Change in Income

A substantial change in the income of either parent is one of the most common reasons for requesting a child support modification. If the paying parent experiences a significant increase or decrease in income, it can impact their ability to make child support payments. Conversely, if the receiving parent’s income changes substantially, it might affect the amount of support needed.

Change in Child’s Needs

As children grow, their needs can change. For instance, a child might develop a medical condition that requires additional financial support, or they may become involved in activities that necessitate higher expenses. On the other hand, as a child becomes more self-sufficient, their financial needs may decrease. Adjustments in child support can ensure that these evolving needs are met appropriately.

Changes in Parenting Time

If there is a significant change in the amount of time each parent spends with the child, a modification of child support might be necessary. For example, if the non-custodial parent starts spending more time with the child, they may be entitled to a reduction in child support payments. Conversely, if the custodial parent takes on more parenting time, they may require additional support to cover the increased expenses.

Remarriage or Additional Children

If either parent remarries or has additional children, their financial responsibilities and resources can change. While remarriage itself doesn’t automatically qualify for modification, the financial impact of a new spouse’s income or additional dependents can be considered.

What Age Do You Stop Paying Child Support?

The age at which child support payments cease in Florida is typically when the child turns 18. However, there are exceptions to this rule. If the child is still in high school at 18 and is expected to graduate before turning 19, child support may continue until graduation. Additionally, if the child is physically or mentally incapacitated and unable to support themselves, child support may extend beyond the age of 18.

Understanding when child support payments may cease is crucial for both parents involved. At The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A., we provide expert legal guidance to help our clients navigate the intricacies of child support termination, ensuring that the child's best interests are always at the forefront.

Contact Our Orlando Child Support Attorney Today

The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A. is dedicated to providing unparalleled legal representation for individuals facing child support challenges in Orlando. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process, advocate for your rights, and work toward securing a fair and reasonable child support arrangement that prioritizes the well-being of your children.

Contact The Law Office of Paulette Hamilton, P.A. by calling (407) 624-5344 today to schedule a meeting with our child support lawyer in Orlando!