Ellicott City Child Support Lawyer
Child support is a form of financial payment made to the custodial parent by the non-custodial parent (or parent with less parenting responsibilities). It can be used in any way the custodial parent deems fit—groceries, diapers, childcare services, clothing, toys, education, healthcare, etc. In many cases, child support is what saves the child from living in poverty. Studies have shown that for families that receive child support, it is often the largest source of income for that household, and that regular child support payments can reduce child poverty and improve a child’s educational outcome, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. On the other hand, paying a large amount of child support can wreak havoc on the non-custodial parent when times are tough. Whether you are the paying or receiving parent, you need an experienced Ellicott City child support lawyer with Weinberg & Schwartz, L.L.C. on your side.
Determining Child Support in Maryland
Child support determination is based on Maryland’s Child Support Guidelines, which calculates child support using the following factors:
- Time each parent spends with the child;
- Each parent’s pre-tax income;
- Number of children the parents have together; and
- Child’s expenses, including insurance, childcare, medical expenses, and more.
Child custody may be applied in full or shared custody arrangements, meaning that even if the child lives with both parents, one parent may be obligated to pay child support.
Child Support Modifications
Child support can be modified at any time when there is a major material change in life circumstance for the child or either parent. This includes anything that affects the receiving parent’s ability to provide, the paying parent’s ability to provide, or the child’s needs. Included in this is the loss of a job, getting a promotion, a major medical issue, gaining a job, and more.
Child Support Termination
Usually, child support ends when the child reaches the age of 18. However, this is not always the case, as child support can be extended or cut short. A petition to terminate child support can be filed with the court when the child reaches the age of 19, passes away, graduates from high school, gets married, or becomes emancipated.
When Child Support is Not Paid
Sadly, the majority of child support orders are not paid in full, or are routinely paid late. Late payments, partial payments, and non-payment can be serious issues for the custodial parent and their child. As such, Maryland courts offer a potential solution to this problem by enabling custodial parents to file actions in the Circuit Court or through the Maryland Child Support Enforcement Agency. Enforcement methods may include revoking the delinquent parent’s driver’s license, intercepting their tax refund, or garnishing their wages through their employer.
Contact an Ellicott City Child Custody Attorney Today
For all of your child support questions, our experienced child support attorneys are available to help today. Call the Ellicott City child support attorneys at Weinberg & Schwartz, L.L.C today at 410-997-0203 to schedule a consultation.
