Charlotte Child Support Lawyers

What is Child Support?

Child support is a financial obligation that a noncustodial parent is required to pay to the custodial parent or legal guardian for the financial care and support of their child or children. The purpose of child support is to ensure that both parents contribute to the financial well-being of their children, even if they are not living together.

Child support orders are usually established through court proceedings. The court reviews the financial circumstances of both parents and issues an order specifying the amount of child support to be paid.

Both parents are responsible for supporting their child financially. The noncustodial parent, who typically has less time with the child, contributes through child support payments to ensure that the child's needs are met in both households.

How Do I File an Action for Child Support?

In North Carolina, a child support action can be filed as a civil action or with a divorce, annulment, or alimony action without divorce. A child support agreement may be settled privately with the assistance of each parent’s attorney, or publicly in court. The action must be filed in the county where the parent or child resides, or the county where the child is physically present.

Understanding the Child Support Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Navigating the child support process can be overwhelming, especially when emotions run high. At Blood Law, PLLC, we believe that knowledge is power. That's why we've created a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you understand what to expect throughout the journey.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Your first step is to schedule an initial consultation with one of our experienced child support lawyers. During this meeting, we will discuss your unique situation, answer your questions, and outline the best course of action.

Step 2: Gathering Documentation

Next, we will assist you in gathering all necessary documentation. This includes financial records, income statements, and any relevant information regarding the child’s needs. Proper documentation is crucial for a fair assessment of support obligations.

Step 3: Filing the Petition

Once we have all the necessary information, we will help you file the petition for child support. This legal document formally requests the court to establish or modify child support obligations.

Step 4: Court Hearings

After filing, a court date will be set. Our dedicated team will prepare you for what to expect during the hearing, ensuring you feel confident and supported as we present your case to the judge.

Step 5: Support Order Issuance

If the court rules in your favor, a child support order will be issued. We will ensure that you understand the terms and conditions, including payment schedules and enforcement measures.

Step 6: Ongoing Support and Modifications

Child support needs can change over time due to various factors. Our team will remain available to assist with any modifications needed in the future, ensuring that the support remains fair and appropriate for your situation.

By following these steps and having our experienced team by your side, you can navigate the child support process with confidence. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards securing the support your child deserves.

Why Choose Blood Law, PLLC?

Our dedicated team understands the emotional and financial implications of child support issues. We are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring that your child's best interests are always prioritized. With decades of combined experience, we have the expertise to navigate even the most complex cases.

Don't let uncertainty cloud your judgment. Schedule your consultation today by calling (704) 286-0570 and take the first step toward a clearer understanding of your child support obligations and rights.

How To Determine Child Support

The guidelines the court will consider before making a child support determination include:

• Your custody schedules
• The monthly gross income of both parents
• Pre-existing child support
• Childcare costs
• The cost of health insurance
• The cost of transporting the child from one parent’s home to the other
• The cost associated with a child with special needs

Determination of Support in Cases Involving High Combined Incomes

In cases where the parents’ combined adjusted gross income exceeds $30,000 per month or $360,000 per year, the basic child support obligation is determined differently. The court may set the amount according to the reasonable needs of the child for education, healthcare, and maintenance considering additional factors such as the child’s accustomed standard of living, child care expenses, the parents’ estates, earnings, and the other parent’s accustomed standard of living.

Modifying Child Support

A significant change in circumstances, in the context of child support modification, typically refers to a substantial and material change that affects the financial situation of one or both parents. This change must be significant enough to warrant a reassessment of the existing child support order.

Common examples of significant changes in circumstances include:

• Income Changes: Job loss or change in employment status, salary or wage increases or decreases, changes in bonuses or commissions, or loss of overtime or additional income sources
• Healthcare Expenses: Significant changes in medical expenses, especially if not covered by insurance, as well as health insurance premium adjustments
• Child's Needs: Changes in the child's health, medical needs, or educational requirements and special needs of the child that were not initially considered
• Custody Arrangements: Changes in custody or visitation arrangements or relocation of either parent affecting visitation or travel costs
• Alimony or Spousal Support Changes: Changes in alimony or spousal support payments received or paid
• Additional Dependents: Birth or adoption of additional children for either parent or additional children from a new relationship
• Cost of Living Adjustments: Changes in the cost of living in the area where the child resides
• Education Expenses: Changes in educational expenses, such as tuition or extracurricular activities
• Disability or Health Issues: Onset of a disability affecting the ability to work and earn income
• Health issues affecting the ability to fulfill financial obligations
• Legal Changes: Changes in laws or regulations governing child support calculations

Establishing Paternity & Support Orders

Unless the alleged father concedes paternity, an order for child support payments cannot be made by a judge. If you believe the alleged father is fabricating the truth, you may request a DNA test, which may or may not be granted. Without establishing paternity, the father cannot make any decisions on behalf of the child, leaving the mother with sole custody.

What Does NC Say About Child Support in Arrears?

Under normal circumstances, support will be paid until the child turns 18 years of age. If arrears exist, state law supports the next child support order to be good for 10 years. Essentially, if payments were neglected by the payor, he or she may be ordered to pay back child support until the child is 28. Due to the nature of this law, it's imperative that you speak with our attorney as soon as possible if you suspect your payments are missing or late.

Why You Need Our Charlotte Child Support Lawyer on Your Side

Blood Law, PLLC focuses on three main branches of the law, so you know you are getting the best representation available for your specific situation. Child support is an important factor that will support your child as he/she grows up. Ensure you have the right legal team on your side to help you find the best possible solution for your family. Schedule a consultation with our child support attorneys in Charlotte today to learn more about our services.

Get in touch online or call our Charlotte child support attorney directly at (704) 286-0570 to book a consultation.

Child Support FAQ: