A Detail-Oriented Child Support Lawyer
If you're like most people, you want to make or receive the child support payments that are fair and reasonable under the circumstances. However, you may not be sure exactly what is reasonable and what factors go into child support determinations.
To make sure you and your children are treated fairly, you should consult with an attorney early in the process. At The Schellert Law Firm in St. Charles, Missouri, we advise and represent clients in divorce and paternity actions who are concerned about child support.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation with a lawyer who is committed to providing direct client service with attention to detail.
Pursuing Fair Child Support Calculations
In Missouri, child support payments are generally determined during divorce and paternity cases based on the state's guidelines. A document called Form 14 is used to calculate how much the supporting parent should pay. This form takes into account factors such as:
- Each parent's gross income
- The number of children each parent supports
- The breakdown of overnight stays in the parenting plan
- The costs of the children's health insurance and other specific needs
We work with our clients to make sure the numbers being used in the child support calculation are accurate and appropriate. We are also prepared to handle situations where, due to unique circumstances strictly following the child support guidelines would be unfair.
Handling Modification and Enforcement Cases
Child support orders remain open to modification when circumstances change, but it is important to get court approval for any child support modifications. We can help you determine whether the amount you are currently paying or receiving is still appropriate.
Due to recent changes in Form 14, many children are entitled to larger support payments. If you have lost a job or taken a large pay cut, on the other hand, you may be able to get your child support obligations decreased.
We also assist clients with child support enforcement matters, including the filing of motions to collect unpaid child support and criminal defense against nonsupport charges. To discuss any aspect of child support with a knowledgeable Missouri family law attorney, contact us today.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertisements. The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.
