Marietta Child Support Lawyer

Child support and child custody have different consequences and configurations depending on the age of a child of divorce or separation. Georgia's new child support law, which went into effect on January 1, 2007, dramatically changed the way that child support is determined and allocated between separated parents.

To schedule a consultation regarding child support as it may apply to your Georgia family law case, contact Hill/Macdonald, LLC. Discuss the particular circumstances of your child support issue, whether as part of a divorce, or resulting from a paternity action outside of marriage.

Both Parents' Incomes are Taken into Account

A dramatic difference of the new child support law as compared with the previous version is its consideration of both parents' income in determining child support. Incomes of both the custodial parent and the non-custodial parent are taken into account. The new law also assumes that children will spend significant periods of time with both parents, even when one parent is designated the custodial parent.

Georgia Child Support Guidelines

In many cases, non-custodial parents (often fathers) will be required to pay less under the current guidelines and custodial parents (often mothers) will receive less. These guidelines are more in line with child support guidelines in other states throughout the U.S. than was previously the case. To come up with an estimate of child support obligations under the current guidelines, see Georgia's online child support calculator.

Unusual Circumstances may Apply

Keep in mind, however, that unusual circumstances may apply in many families. An experienced child support lawyer is a valuable source of information and advocacy in many cases.

Health Insurance ◦ Daycare ◦ Extracurricular Activities ◦ Educational Needs

Parents' incomes are not the only factors that the state of Georgia takes into account in determining child support responsibilities of separated or divorced mothers and fathers. The amount that each parent pays for health insurance, medical care, daycare, and certain extracurricular activities (especially activities such as music or sports that a child has been involved in over a period of time) is also relevant. Any unusual circumstances such as necessary tutoring or summer daycare needs may mean that deviation from the basic child support obligation is in order.

Is Modification Appropriate in Your Case?

Schedule a consultation with Marietta, Georgia child support lawyers Hill/Macdonald, LLC to determine whether modification to your child support order is appropriate.  Contact us through this Web site.