In Florida, Child Support is awarded to ensure that children are receiving the appropriate level of financial contribution in each parent’s home. In Florida, child support typically is for the minority of the child, from the time of the child’s birth through the child’s majority (18th birthday). However, there may be some exceptions that could qualify for an extension of the support past the child’s majority, like if the child is enrolled full time as a student with an expectation of graduation before the age of 19. Another exception may be that an adult child is or becomes disabled and is unable to be self-supporting. The amount of Child Support that is necessary will depend on several factors, based upon the Florida Statutes.
Child Support is gender neutral, it is generally paid by the parent who has less time-sharing than the other parent and/or by the parent with more income available to them.
In order for the parties and/or Court to determine the appropriate level of support, the Florida Statutes outline the base support amount that is expected for the child or children, which is dependent upon the parties’ combined net income.
In determining the final guidelines, the parties and/or Court must consider multiple factors, which include:
Many people assume that if the amount of support is dictated by guidelines or because it is being processed by the Department of Revenue that it is not necessary to retain an attorney to assist in a strictly Child Support matter. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Obtaining adequate child support is essential, for the payor, recipient, and children. For those who must pay child support, having an affordable amount is critical. For those who will receive support, having the proper amount is equally as critical. For the children, the proper Child Support amount is important to ensure that the children receive proper financial support from their parents.
The real work comes before your hearing and relies on determining the income upon which the child support will be based, along with the other Statutory factors. Because of this, the best time to seek advice from an experienced Child Support attorney is before an order is set by a judge or administrative law judge.
Mrs. Darley understands Florida’s Child Support laws and its factors, such as those that can affect the ultimate amount of Child Support. As your Florida Child Support attorney, Mrs. Darley will assist you with your case and educate you on the circumstances and requirements of Child Support. Whether you are paying or receiving child support, Mrs. Darley will help you receive the best possible outcome.
If you already have a Child Support Order in place:
