How Is Child Support Calculated In Georgia?
After a divorce involving children, child support is an important factor in ensuring that a child’s financial needs are covered. This is an obligation, not an option, for the parent who is assigned the responsibility of paying support.
Child support is calculated according to a set of guidelines set by the state. While it is possible to deviate from these guidelines should both parents agree, paying child support is mandatory. If you do not supply this important financial contribution to your child’s life, you could be held in contempt of court.
Should Your Child Support Be Modified?
Our founding attorney, Christina Stahl, has more than 27 years of experience helping families navigate the complexities of family law. Child support is often a highly contested area of law, and we are determined to help our clients understand what their role is in the matter and how they can support the best interests of their children.
It is not uncommon for one or both parents to feel frustrated and vindictive. We understand the importance of your children and are determined to help you move past the emotional turmoil of your divorce or modification and focus on how to best approach your unique situation so that you can plan for a brighter future for you and your children.
Factors Considered In Child Support Modification
In Georgia, child support modification is governed by specific state laws that ensure the financial needs of the child are met. Parents who are looking to modify their agreement need to show that there is a major change in the circumstances of the divorce agreement since it was made. Some valid reasons to modify an order include changes in income, employment status or the needs of the child. To request a modification, a parent must file a petition with the court, outlining the reasons for the requested change.
The court considers several factors when deciding on a child support modification. A few examples of these factors include the financial needs of the child, any special needs, changes in the parent’s income and the terms of the current child support order. The court’s goal in these cases is to find a balance between the best interests of the child and the financial abilities of the parents. In Georgia, courts use the “Income Shares Model” to calculate child support obligations and find this balance.
Considering how complex these cases can be, it is vital to turn to the guidance of a skilled family law attorney. With our guidance, we can help you through every stage of the modification process, whether you are trying to change or defend the agreement.
Contact Stahl Law Group, P.C., For More Information
To learn more about how an experienced Cartersville child support attorney can help you, send us an email or call 678-792-4190.