Child Support

Orange County Child Support Attorney

The California court system uses child support guidelines to determine the amount of child support payments. The child support guidelines are generally strict and enforced. However, it is possible to vary from the guidelines--provided certain conditions are met and both parties are in agreement. The Law Office of Karen H. Beckman represents divorcing parents who are concerned about child support payments. Parents on both sides of the issue--non-custodial and custodial parent--can be concerned about the amount. The firm strives to meet favorable outcomes to the amounts on clients' behalf.

Would you like to speak with a lawyer about child support payments and guidelines? Contact The Law Office of Karen H. Beckman to arrange a consultation in her Orange or Irvine, California, office.

Determining the Amount of Child Support

While it is possible to deviate from the support payments determined by the guidelines, the guidelines are used as a starting point. Stipulations are made in the best interest of the children. The following are several factors that are used in the formula to determine the amount of support:

• Parents' incomes
• Number of children
• High-earner's net monthly disposable income
• Time of physical custody of children
• Tax deductions
• Health insurance premiums
• Special medical needs of children
• Educational needs
• Travel expenses for visitation

It is important to remember that child support payments are designated to provide for the needs of the children. In issues of children and divorce, it may be tempting for some parties to use the children as bargaining tools. The child support guidelines ensure each party's primary obligation is to the children involved in the divorce. In addition to helping clients during the divorce process, the firm represents clients who are facing post-decree issues. These can arise because of the need to change a payment amount or enforce a payment order. Contact Attorney Beckman to arrange a consultation.