Child support
Support that matches the paychecks you really have
Support follows a formula. The fights are about what goes into it.
The state guidelines start from both parents’ incomes, then add childcare, health insurance and the parenting schedule. Small errors move the number a lot: overtime counted twice, a side business left out, a schedule that doesn’t match reality.
We check every line of the worksheet, then ask the court for a number you can live with and the kids can count on.
What it covers
Support work, start to finish
Setting support
Gathering income records and running the guidelines so the first order is right.
Changing support
After a layoff, a raise, a new baby or a new schedule, when the change is big enough to count.
Collecting what’s owed
Wage withholding, tax refund intercepts and contempt when payments stop.
Extras
Health insurance, uncovered medical bills, childcare and school costs, and how they’re shared.
Self-employed parents
Finding real income in business accounts, cash work and gig apps.
Spousal maintenance
Support for a former spouse, which runs on different rules from child support.
Child support, asked plainly
Can we agree on our own number?
You can agree, but a judge has to approve it, and a number far from the guidelines needs a reason the court accepts.
My ex quit a job to pay less. What now?
A court can base support on what someone could earn, not only what they choose to earn. Bring us what you know.
When does support end?
Usually when a child turns 18, or finishes high school if that comes later, within limits. A disabled child may be supported longer.
Is back support ever forgiven?
Rarely. Past-due support usually stays owed, often with interest. That’s why changing an order quickly matters.
Send us the worksheet you were handed
We’ll look at the inputs and tell you whether the number holds up.