EXPERIENCED SAN DIEGO CHILD SUPPORT LAWYERS
If you are facing a divorce, you may be feeling overwhelmed, especially if children are involved. Your biggest concern is likely how the divorce will impact your kids. As you navigate this tough time, the financial aspects – like child support – can feel like another heavy burden on top of everything else.
At the Law Offices of Beatrice L. Snider, APC, we know your priority is your kids’ well being and maintaining as much stability as possible in their lives. Our experienced child support attorneys are here to be by your side through this process, advocating for a fair and just outcome that reflects the needs of your family. With over 200 years of combined experience, we’re committed to protecting your rights, whether it’s negotiating child custody arrangements, determining appropriate child support, or filing for divorce.
Our office is located off of Interstate 15 and Miramar Road, behind the car wash. The Law Offices of Beatrice L. Snider, APC has been practicing here in San Diego for over 50 years, dedicated to helping our clients navigate the complexities of child support and family law with compassion, expertise, and unwavering commitment.
What Is Child Support?
Child support is a payment made by a non-custodial parent to help with the expenses of raising their child. It’s important for the child’s well-being and quality of life. Child support happens in the following situations in San Diego and all of California:
- Divorce or Separation: When parents get divorced or separated, child support is often included in the divorce proceedings so the non-custodial parent contributes to the child’s needs.
- Unmarried Parents: If parents are not married but living apart, child support can be arranged through a court order so the child is financially stable.
- Custody Agreements: When making custody arrangements, child support is determined to cover the child’s daily expenses.
- Paternity Establishment: When paternity is established, the father may be required to pay child support to help with the child’s upbringing.
- State Intervention: If a parent applies for state assistance, the state may go after the non-custodial parent for child support to offset public assistance costs.
How Is Child Support Calculated in San Diego?
In California, child support is calculated using a formula that looks at several factors. The main ones are:
- Parents’ Income: Both parents’ gross income, including wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions and other income.
- Time with Child: The amount of time each parent spends with the child (custody and visitation) is a big factor as it affects each parent’s financial responsibility.
- Deductions: Certain deductions are applied, taxes, union dues, health insurance premiums and other child support obligations.
- Other: Childcare costs, educational expenses and healthcare costs.
The actual calculation is done using a mathematical formula called the “Statewide Uniform Guideline” which is found in California Family Code Section 4055. Many parents and attorneys use software to apply this formula. The result is to ensure the child gets equal financial support from both parents in proportion to their income and time with the child.
What to Expect as the Parent Giving Child Support
At BLSAPC, we understand that providing child support can be a significant responsibility. As the parent responsible for making payments, you can expect a clear and fair assessment of your financial obligations based on California’s child support guidelines. Our experienced family law attorneys will work closely with you to ensure that the amount you are required to pay is appropriate and reflective of your financial situation. We are here to guide you through the process, helping you understand your rights and responsibilities, and ensuring that your payments are manageable and support your child’s well-being.
What to Expect as the Parent Receiving Child Support
As the parent receiving child support, you can trust Beatrice L. Snider, APC to advocate for your child’s financial security. We are committed to ensuring that the support you receive is fair and sufficient to meet your child’s needs. Our knowledgeable attorneys will work diligently to calculate an appropriate support amount based on both parents’ incomes, the child’s needs, and the relevant legal guidelines. You can expect us to be with you every step of the way, from securing the initial order to ensuring timely and full payment, so you can focus on providing the best possible life for your child.
Can I Request a Modification to a Child Support Order in San Diego?
Modifying a child support order in San Diego is necessary when life changes. If your income has changed, your child’s needs have increased or the custody arrangement has changed, it’s time to change the child support.
To start this process you’ll need to file a formal motion with the San Diego County Superior Court. This means gathering evidence to support your request, like recent pay stubs, tax returns or documents showing changes in your child’s care schedule. Once you’ve filed the motion the court will review it and may schedule a hearing.
At the hearing the judge will review your situation and decide if a modification is warranted based on the current facts and what’s best for your child.
Schedule a Consultation With a San Diego Child Support Lawyer
Our San Diego child support attorneys at the Law Offices of Beatrice L. Snider, APC are experienced in advising clients who wish to make provisions for the benefit of their children above and beyond that which would be required by California law. It is important the client has knowledgeable counsel before entering into any such obligation. Contact our experienced team to learn more about our firm.