Manassas, Virginia, Child Support Attorney
Child support can be a highly contested issue in many divorce cases. The amount of support can have a large impact not only on you and your financial situation, but also on your children and their quality of life. To make sure that you and your children are treated fairly when the amount of support is calculated, it is important to work with an experienced lawyer who understands the child support guidelines.
Understanding Virginia Child Support
The purpose of child support is to provide for the needs of the children, not the custodial parent. In the past, the amount was determined based on need versus ability to pay. This led to a great deal of confusion, with different judges awarding different amounts. To make child support determinations consistent and uniform, the state adopted the Virginia child support guidelines. These guidelines are based on income, not need. Four factors are considered in calculating child support:
- The gross monthly income of both parents
- How custodial time is divided
- Work-related day care expenses
- The cost of health and dental insurance for the children
Although the formulas are fairly straightforward, disputes still arise. Sometimes, income will be disputed if a parent is voluntarily unemployed or underemployed. Additionally, children may have special needs. It is important to make sure that all of these important factors have been taken into consideration.
Manassas, Virginia, child support lawyer Robert Klima thoroughly understands the calculation process and will take the necessary steps to ensure that the amount is calculated correctly.
Modification of Child Support
After the initial child support determination, circumstances may change for you and your child. If so, it may be possible to modify support obligations. Some of the reasons for modification are:
- A significant increase or decrease in income
- The emancipation of a child
- A change in the custodial arrangements
- The child’s changing health care needs
Once child support has been ordered, the parents cannot agree between themselves to change the amount. A new court order is required.
Contact a Gainesville Support Guidelines Calculations Lawyer
To schedule an initial consultation to discuss your child support concerns with Mr. Klima, call 703-361-5051 or toll free 800-747-8783. You can also contact him online. Our office is open 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Mr. Klima represents individuals and families living in communities in Prince William and Fauquier counties, including Manassas, Woodbridge, Gainesville, Haymarket, Bristow, Warrenton and surrounding counties.