Glendale
Child Support Lawyer
Glendale Child Support Attorney
Child support cases are often complicated by challenging family dynamics. For parents choosing separate paths, the needs of their shared child can often become a point of contention rather than responsibility. This can be detrimental to the financial and emotional well-being of all children involved. Receiving legal guidance from a Glendale, CA child support lawyer can help you avoid costly mistakes throughout a child support case.
With over two decades of family law practice, the team at the Law Offices of Patricia A. Rigdon has the knowledge and experience you need to handle all types of child support disputes, from the most amicable to the most contentious. Speak with a family lawyer in Glendale from our trusted firm. Our priority is to help you resolve your case outside of court in the most efficient way possible and to reach a resolution that meets the needs of you and your child.
How Child Support Is Determined in California
California provides various protections for children. Child support laws have been enacted as part of these efforts. Orders of support are legal mandates issued by courts. It is a request for ongoing payments to a custodial parent on behalf of a child. These monthly payments help provide for a child’s necessities.
These payments are made to meet the child’s needs, including housing, education, healthcare, transportation, clothing, and many more. Either parent can request child support during a divorce or may be ordered by the judge if they deem it necessary for their welfare. It can also be requested by an unmarried parent through a child support agency. A child support case may also be opened when a welfare is petitioned on behalf of a child. To help you get through this trying period, you should consult a Glendale divorce lawyer who can assist you in understanding the complexities surrounding child support and family law.
To determine the amount of child support that should be issued, a child support case manager or a judge considers various factors in the calculation. These include:
- The current physical custody arrangement.
- The current income and income potential of both parents.
- Each party’s tax filing status and their financial responsibilities towards other minors.
- The cost of living where the child resides.
There is no cap on child support, and courts try to ensure a child is financially taken care of without placing undue burden on either parent. Unfortunately, the determination of these payments can become contentious as the parents view these orders as providing money to the other parent rather than providing money in aid of their child. Many separating parents wish not to share financial obligations with each other, but they both share an obligation to their children.
A Glendale Child Support Lawyer Can Be a Vital Asset in Your Case
Handling a child support case on your own is oftentimes daunting. Having the backing of a knowledgeable child support lawyer in Glendale, CA can help make a difference in the outcome of your case.
A skilled lawyer can advise you on the critical pieces of information that you should present when filing or responding to a child support petition so that the judge or case manager can have the most accurate image of your circumstances.
If you believe you should not be financially responsible for the child in question, an attorney can educate you on your options for challenging legal parentage, including requesting a paternity test.
A dedicated attorney can also work side by side with you to help you obtain physical custody of your child if it is in their best interest, which can then allow you to provide directly for the child rather than make payments through child support.
Working with a family law firm may help afford you peace of mind as you navigate the family court system.
Common Pitfalls During a Child Support Case
The child support process may seem straightforward. There are, however, some common pitfalls in child support cases that can lead to many types of complications.
- Deciding not to request child support: Even when parents are cordial, it is wise to handle matters of child support through legal channels. This ensures that the child’s welfare is assured regardless of the parent’s relationship.
- Omitting important information: Not providing adequate information about your finances and needs during a child support case can lead to an unfavorable financial outcome.
- Failing to comply with child support orders: A child support order is a legal mandate. Violating it by not making payments can lead to serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
- Neglecting to file a request for modification: Though modifications to child support orders are not easy to obtain, it is possible to have a change if you present compelling information about your circumstances to a judge. This is better than failing to make payments as required.
Avoid these common pitfalls in your child support case by consulting with a knowledgeable Glendale child custody lawyer as soon as possible.
FAQs About Glendale, CA Child Support Attorney Law
Do I Need a Lawyer for Child Support in California?
It is highly advised that you work with a trusted family law attorney to resolve your child support case in California. Legal counsel can help ensure your rights and privileges are protected throughout the process. You can also benefit from counsel if you would like to request a modification to an existing child support order.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost in California?
The cost of a child custody lawyer in California depends on several factors. An attorney’s fee is based on their years of practice and where they are based. The complexity of your case can also influence how much your costs could be. To understand what attorney fees you may have in your child support case, ask your attorney during the initial consultation.
How Much Should a Father Pay for Child Support in California?
The law dictates that either parent may be required to provide child support in California, regardless of gender. The final child support amount is based on both parents’ income, financial responsibilities, and the cost of living where the child resides. Consulting a child support attorney may help shed light on the potential amount you may be required to pay or receive based on your unique circumstances.
How Can I Legally Stop Paying Child Support in California?
There are several reasons you can legally stop paying child support in California. These include if you obtain physical custody of the child, if they turn 19 or graduate from high school, whichever happens first, or if the child is under 18 but is married, emancipated, or joins the military. In addition to these, a court-ordered modification can also bring an end to child support payments.
Contact Glendale Child Support Lawyer Today
The Law Offices of Patricia A. Rigdon is a top-rated family law firm that has handled child support cases in Los Angeles County for many years. Our team has a deep understanding of child support laws in the state and can help you navigate the oftentimes complex processes of the family court system. Contact our office today to discuss your case with us. Let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you.
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