Child Support Lawyer Serving Contra Costa County
There are long-term ramifications associated with an order directing a parent to pay child support. To make sure that you are treated fairly in the amount of child support you're asked to pay or the amount of child support you receive, hiring a lawyer is the best step you can take.
How Child Support Works in Contra Costa County
Child support payments are intended to ensure both spouses share the financial responsibility for the well-being of their child, or children. They are generally paid by a non-custodial parent to a custodial parent. However, a support order may be issued when the parents agree to have joint custody, particularly when the income of the parents are dramatically different.
Child support payments usually last until the youngest child reaches the age of 18 and finishes high school. However, payment may last longer for a child with a disability.
The State of California sets guidelines to help determine how much child support should be paid by a non-custodial parent. These guidelines typically use the whole income of the non-custodial parent, including:
- Wages
- Government benefits
- Investments; and/or
- Other types of income
The Court also allows a non-custodial parent to subtract other financial obligations, such as taxes, health insurance premiums and the cost of raising other children. It is also important to note that, even when child support payments have been set via court order, they can be modified to account for changes in a parent's financial situation, changes in custody, or changes in the children's needs.
Have Questions about Child Support in Contra Costa County? Contact The Geller Firm Today
If you have questions related to the laws and guidelines governing child support in Lafayette, Orinda, Moraga, or anywhere in Contra Costa County, California, now is the time to contact The Geller Firm. Our team of experienced and respected Lafayette child support attorneys are here to help. We are located in the San Francisco Bay Area and are proud to provide legal services in Lafayette and Contra Costa County, along with San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, and Pleasanton. Our legal team is available for virtual and in-person consultations. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
