Nashville Child Support Attorneys
Compassionate Legal Support for Child Support Matters
Whether you are going through a divorce or are an unwed parent struggling to make ends meet, child support can make all the difference. At The Law Office of Martin Sir & Associates, we are here to help you fight for the child support order you need within the confines of the Tennessee Child Support Guidelines.
To speak with an experienced Nashville child support lawyer, give us a call at (615) 229-7235 or contact us online today.
Understanding Your Child Support Obligations in Tennessee
Both parents are legally obligated to financially support their children after a divorce, regardless of custody and visitation arrangements. Child support payments are determined based on the income level and resources of each parent, the amount of time that the child spends with each parent and any unique needs the child might have associated with their care.
How Courts Determine Child Support Payments
The court may require that the higher-earning or noncustodial spouse pay child support in order to fulfill their duties as a providing parent. Because higher-income typically means higher child support payments, noncustodial parents may attempt to purposely lower their income to avoid paying higher amounts of child support. In this case, courts may impute income from a parent who is below their earning capacity to ensure that they are fairly fulfilling their obligation of care to their child.
How Do They Calculate child support in Tennessee?
The State of Tennessee Child Support Guidelines can seem overwhelming for a layperson to understand. In general terms, the Child Support Worksheet formula identifies the number of children to be supported, their ages, the number of days (overnights) that the child(ren) resides with each parent, the gross monthly income of each parent, and may provide other credits to each parent such as cost of work-related childcare and health insurance premiums.
Family Law
Understanding Child Support Laws in Middle Tennessee
Child support is typically established during divorce proceedings, but it can also be set in paternity cases or through modifications of existing orders. When establishing child support, the court will review all relevant financial information from both parents to determine an appropriate amount based on the state guidelines.
If parents can agree on a child support amount, they can submit a proposed order to the court for approval. However, if an agreement cannot be reached, the court will make a determination based on the evidence presented. Let our Nashville child support attorney help you in this crucial time.
How Do They Calculate child support in Tennessee?
The State of Tennessee Child Support Guidelines can seem overwhelming for a layperson to understand. In general terms, the Child Support Worksheet formula identifies the number of children to be supported, their ages, the number of days (overnights) that the child(ren) resides with each parent, the gross monthly income of each parent, and may provide other credits to each parent such as cost of work-related childcare and health insurance premiums.
The amount of child support ordered can vary significantly from case to case. Here are some specific factors that may influence the payment amounts:
- Parenting Time: The amount of time each parent spends with the child can affect child support calculations. More parenting time for the non-custodial parent may result in a lower support obligation.
- Educational Expenses: If a child requires private schooling or special educational services, these expenses may be factored into the support order.
- Medical Needs: Children with special medical needs may require additional financial support, influencing the overall child support obligation.
- Lifestyle Considerations: Courts may consider the lifestyle the child would have had if the parents had remained together, aiming to maintain stability for the child.
- Other Children: If the non-custodial parent has other children for whom they are financially responsible, this may be considered in calculating support obligations. For two or more children, the percentage of combined income typically increases. The Tennessee Child Support Guidelines state that:
- For one child, the support obligation is usually around 17% of the combined income.
- 25% for two children
- 30% for three children
- 35% for four children, and so on.
Is it Possible to Modify a Child Support Order?
Life circumstances can change, and modifications to child support may be necessary. In Tennessee, either parent can request a modification if there has been a significant change in circumstances. This could include increase or decrease in income, losing a job or obtaining a new job with a different salary, and changes in the child’s needs.
To initiate a modification, the parent seeking the change must file a motion with the court. The court will then review the request and determine if the modification is appropriate.
The Law Office of Martin Sir & Associates is dedicated to helping parents determine the amount of child support they may have to pay or that they might receive. Take the first step and contact our Nashville child support lawyer today by calling (615) 229-7235 or filling out our online inquiry form.
How Can We Help?
Child support laws can be complex and vary from state to state. Our team at Martin Sir & Associates is well-versed in the specific child support laws in Middle Tennessee and can provide you with compassionate and knowledgeable representation. We understand the importance of ensuring that children receive the financial support they need, and we are here to guide you through the legal process.
Our experienced child support attorney can assist you with:
- Calculating child support payments
- Modifying existing child support orders
- Enforcing child support orders
- Addressing child support issues in divorce or separation cases
Let us help you navigate the complexities of child support laws in Middle Tennessee and ensure that your children's best interests are protected.
To speak with an experienced Nashville child support lawyer, give us a call at (615) 229-7235 or contact us online today.
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