Child support is a monetary payment that a noncustodial parent pays toward the living expenses of their children. The amount of child support is based primarily on the net incomes of both parents, the number of overnights with the children by each parent, medical insurance costs, and day care and school expenses. Although child support payments often can be agreed in calculation, a knowledgeable Orlando/Central Florida family lawyer can explain how it is calculated and help you finalize fair, precise terms. The payment of child support is not intended to be punishment for the parent that is required to pay support, nor should it be considered a windfall for the parent receiving support.

Your children deserve to have the same financial resources they had before your divorce. Decisions prior to and during a divorce should minimize the effects on their lifestyle. One way to ensure they are provided for is to assure that an appropriate child support award is made. Under Florida’s child support statutory guidelines, support is determined by examining both parents’ income and the custody arrangement as well as any special needs of the children. When a parent is a business owner or possesses properties, determining income can become complicated.

There are several factors that impact the final child support amount and Kenneth D. Morse, P.A. can help make a strong and reasoned argument that best supports your position. The goal of child support is to allow the minor children involved to continue to live with the standard of living they would have had if the divorce had never occurred.  Of course, if the situation of either parent has changed due to things beyond their control, then the court can consider those factors.  This expected standard of living is assigned whether the parents were ever married or not.

You need an attorney who will take the time to understand your needs and goals. Since 1974, Kenneth D. Morse, P.A. has counseled clients concerned about children with disabilities, medical issues, and child support and alimony modifications. Whether you are paying or receiving child support, you want a fair result. Kenneth D. Morse, P.A. has extensive experience negotiating complex child support issues. Contact the Law Firm of Kenneth D. Morse today to learn more about child support awards.