Brookhaven Child Support Lawyer
The financial support of children is a legal responsibility that falls on both parents from the time their children are born until they reach adulthood. It’s vital to ensure this issue is resolved, either through agreement between the parents or adjudication in court, and for this, expert legal guidance with a Brookhaven child support lawyer is paramount.
Understanding Child Support Laws in New York
- Both parents are mandated to provide for their children financially, including financial support and health insurance, until the child reaches 21 years old.
- This obligation can cease earlier if the child marries, becomes self-sufficient, or enlists in the military.
- For a child with a disability, child support can extend up until the age of 26.
- Child support is typically paid by the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent, defined as the one who has physical custody of the child more than 50% of the time.
- In joint custody situations with equal time-sharing, the higher-earning parent will usually be obligated to bear at least the healthcare and daycare expenses for the children.
New York uses established guidelines to determine the amount of child support from the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent:
- The guidelines consider the parents’ incomes, each parent’s custodial timeshare, and the number of children being supported.
- The parents’ combined incomes are multiplied by a percentage, which changes based on the number of children, ranging from 17% for one child up to 35% for five or more.
- This total is then proportionally divided based on each parent’s net income, resulting in a monthly support amount to be paid to the custodial parent.
How a Brookhaven Child Support Lawyer Can Be Your Ally
- Completing the Statement of Net Worth: Each parent must accurately report all income, expenses, assets, property, and debts. Our lawyer can ensure all details are thoroughly and correctly reported.
- Technical Assistance: We can provide expert assistance, calling on forensic accountants or other specialists when needed, to ensure accurate child support calculations.
- Negotiations: The amount calculated through guidelines is typically accepted, but parents can agree on a different sum. We can assist in negotiating an agreement that caters to your family’s unique needs.
- Contested Hearings: If one parent argues the guidelines’ amount is unjust or inappropriate and requests the court to approve a different amount, we can gather factual evidence and legal arguments to support your position.
Contact a Brookhaven Child Support Lawyer Today
For insightful advice, professional assistance, and effective legal representation concerning child support in your New York divorce, paternity case, or child custody dispute, contact our experienced Brookhaven child support lawyer today. Our commitment is to ensure the best financial outcome for your child.
