An Overview of Florida Child Support Laws

Florida child support laws are very clear about the matter, but it is not always so clear and easy when parents get divorced and find themselves fighting and talking through their attorneys. West Palm Beach parents can’t battle about child support payments for long though, since there are specific child support guidelines in this state and the courts cannot deviate from those guidelines. The courts also cannot allow either parent to waive the child support. So if one parent thinks they can determine what a fair figure is and when or if it should be paid, they will soon find that they are sorely mistaken.

Child support, which is typically paid by the secondary to the parent with full custody, is determined based on the combined net monthly income of both parents. Since the calculations are based on a standard formula, anyone can figure this out with the help of their lawyer. West Palm Beach courts will not consider the expenses of the parents in this equation though, which means that a parent cannot make the claim that they can’t afford to make the payments. If they make enough money in the eyes of the court there is no other excuse.

Florida child support laws state that the net income of both parents must be combined to calculate child support and determine both parties’ support obligation. Additional support for day care, health insurance and uncovered medical expenses for the child are then taken into account. After this, calculations are made to determine the final obligation. It is the same type of process when it comes time to modify the child support, which will occur when the secondary parent begins to host the child for more than 40 percent of overnights during the year.

Even though the laws are clear, most parents still find it necessary to work with attorneys. West Palm Beach law firms that specialize in these types of cases can ensure that the legal process goes as smoothly and quickly as possible.
For more resources regarding West Palm Beach Lawyers or even about Florida Child Support Laws and especially about Family Law West Palm Beach please review these pages.