Huntington Beach Child Support Lawyer2023-12-13T11:31:10+00:00

Children whose parents end their marriage in divorce still must have their needs met and their well-being supported. This often requires both parents to continue contributing to the finances involved in raising a child, even when the relationship shifts from spouses to co-parents. The financial assistance of the non-custodial parent is known as child support. In California, there are guidelines courts follow to determine child support amounts if couples cannot reach an agreement themselves. Having an experienced child support attorney on your side, whether you are the custodial or non-custodial parent, can lead to a more favorable outcome in your situation.

How the Level of Child Support Payments Is Determined

Judges use two key factors when determining what amount of money is appropriate for child support payments. The first factor is the total income of each parent, which is provided to the court by both parties in the form of an Income and Expense Declaration. The second factor revolves around how much time each parent spends with a child, known as the time-share. This is considered to help determine who pays the child support and who receives it.

The state of California provides an online calculator that can be used to estimate what your child support payments might look like. That way, you’ll have an idea of what to expect before the judge approves the final amount. However, some knowledge of California child support and tax laws is required to correctly input the information in the calculator, so the guidance of an experienced family lawyer can be useful. Your child support attorney can also help with the accurate completion of the Income and Expense Declaration.

What Child Support Covers

Child support is meant to assist with paying for a portion of the basic necessities of each child, such as food, healthcare/insurance, housing, and clothing until the child turns 18. If you have multiple children, each child could be assigned a different child support payment amount depending on the needs associated with their age.

Other costs of raising a child beyond their basic needs could be included in the child support order created by the judge. This could cover expenses related to school costs, extracurricular activities, or childcare costs. Sometimes judges do not include these other expenses in their orders, but co-parents could choose to increase support payments to cover these expenses if they agree on the matter. An attorney is useful in these situations to help co-parents reach an agreement that is fair for both parties and the child.

How A  Huntington Beach Child Support Attorney Can Help

While it is an option to go through the process of setting up child support payments without representation, hiring a lawyer can be beneficial for both custodial and non-custodial parents. Helping with the preparation of the legal documents involved in child support determination cases helps to ensure you are treated fairly and are providing an accurate picture of your financial situation to the courts.

Going through divorce and custody battles can be an emotional time, and mistakes can easily be made as you experience heightened emotions. A lawyer can also assist if modifications to a child support order need to be made. Our Huntington Beach, California child support attorneys can guide you through the initial child support process or the modification process to help achieve a fair outcome that is in the best interest of your children.

Huntington Beach Child Support FAQs

Q: How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost in California?
A:
The cost of a child support attorney in California varies between location, case complexity, and the pricing structure of each law firm. The average cost is between $100-$500 per hour. An uncontested case typically adds up to a total cost between $2,500 and $5,000. Contested cases are more time-consuming and can lead to much higher legal costs. The cost of not hiring experienced representation can be even higher in the long run, so weigh your options carefully.

Q: Can You Negotiate Child Support in California?
A:
Negotiating the amount of child support you owe is possible, but a mutual agreement with the other parent must be reached. Experienced lawyers can assist in helping parties reach a negotiation that is in the child’s best interest while also providing fairness to both sides. Given the high emotions often surrounding divorce and child custody cases, the help of an attorney is beneficial in negotiations to avoid heated arguments and dead ends.

Q: How Can Child Support Be Modified?
A:
If certain circumstances are met, such as a change in income or change in childcare costs, modifications to a child support order can be made. This is easiest when both parents can agree on the new amount, as it can then be given to a judge to sign. If an agreement can’t be reached, the parent who is seeking the modification can file a motion with the court requesting the change.

Q: What Happens at a Child Support Hearing in California?
A:
In California child support hearings, the judge asks questions about each parent’s income and custody levels. You may need to provide documentation to back up your claims. In modification hearings, the process is similar in that the judge asks about what has changed regarding income and custody. This information is then used to help the judge determine if a modification to the previously determined child support arrangement is justified.

Protect Your Interests and Those of Your Child

At the Dorie A. Rogers, APC, we have over 30 years of experience providing counsel and representation to clients going through child support cases. We can help you understand your rights and support you in reaching a child support agreement that is in everyone’s best interests.

As parents, you and your ex both want what is best for your children. Judgment of what is best and what is fair for all parties can be clouded by the high emotions surrounding divorce. Our team has helped many co-parents negotiate reasonable child support agreements. Contact us to set up a consultation where you can share your story and learn how we can support you.

At The Dorie A. Rogers

APC, we represent clients both initiating and defending against child support actions. Our Irvine child support attorneys counsel and advocate for clients in issues related to initial calculation, failure to pay, modifications and enforcement of existing child support orders.

Backed by more than 30 years of experience and extensive qualifications, we are committed to protecting the rights and interests of clients dealing with even the most complex child support matters, including cases involving parties with considerable wealth.

Contact us to schedule a consultation. We serve clients throughout Orange County and Riverside County, California.

Reviews Quotes
“Dorie is a very powerful attorney and a great asset to have on your side in any family legal matter. She is extremely bright and insightful, and I got everything I asked for in my lawsuit.”
Brit B.
“I would strongly recommend Ms. Dorie Rogers for any legal needs. During my Divorce proceedings, Dorie’s professionalism, expertise in Divorce Law and legal skill helped bring my case to a close in both a timely and mutually agreeable manner.

Additionally, Dorie took the time to understand me and my background to better represent me in my case. She showed a level of caring and concern that helped me through a very difficult time. She is an outstanding lawyer and wonderful person.”

Alan M. Greenberg
“Second to none – I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Dorie to anyone. She was my attorney for my divorce and custody case. She will do everything it takes to get the job done and all with a smile on her face. Her knowledge and expertise will assist anyone in a family law situation get the results they want.”
Todd M.

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