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Pasadena Child Support Lawyer

Work With a Top-Rated & Experienced Firm in California

Child support paymentSearching for a child support lawyer in Pasadena? If you have been granted custody of your children during a divorce proceeding, it is important to make sure that you receive a court order for fair child support. Your children should not have to suffer the loss of support from one of their parents simply because their parents obtained a divorce.

The courts make decisions regarding child custody and child support based on the best interests of the child. Your best decision at this time would be to retain a Pasadena child support attorney who can present a strong argument to prove that your child's best interest would be served best in your custody and with adequate support from the other parent.

Contact us online or call (626) 788-5225 now to schedule a consultation with a skilled Pasadena child support lawyer!

How Child Support is Calculated in California?

California uses a standard guideline formula to calculate child support payments, known as the California Child Support Guideline Calculator. The formula takes into account several key factors, which are designed to ensure fairness in the distribution of financial responsibilities between both parents. Some of the most important factors include:

  • Income of Both Parents
  • Time Spent with the Child
  • Other Children
  • Health Care Costs

How Much Should a Father Pay For Child Support in California?

In California, the amount a father (or any parent) pays for child support is determined using the California Child Support Guidelines. The general guideline is as follows:

  • For one child, the non-custodial parent is typically responsible for 20% of their income.
  • For two children, it increases to around 25% of their income.
  • For three children, the obligation could be around 30% of their income.
  • For four children, it might be about 35%.
  • For five children, the percentage could go up to 40% or higher, depending on circumstances.

It’s important to note that the actual amount can vary based on specific circumstances, and the court can adjust the amount as needed based on the best interest of the child. For exact calculations, it's advisable to work with a family law attorney in California who can help ensure that the support amount is determined fairly.

Can You Negotiate Child Support in California? 

Yes, child support can be negotiated in California. Parents may agree on a child support amount that is outside of the guideline formula, but it must still be approved by the court. The judge will only approve the negotiated amount if it is in the best interest of the child. However, if parents cannot reach an agreement, the court will calculate the support based on the California Child Support Guidelines.

If you are seeking to modify an existing child support agreement, you can negotiate the terms with the other parent or through a mediator, but again, the court must approve the final agreement. If negotiation is difficult, legal assistance from our Pasadena child support attorney can help guide you through the process.

How to Modify Child Support Orders?

Child support orders are not permanent and can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. Changes in income, employment status, or custody arrangements can all justify a modification of the child support order.

Common reasons for seeking a modification include:

  • Loss of Employment or Income: If a parent loses their job or experiences a significant decrease in income, they may need to seek a reduction in child support payments. Conversely, if a parent’s income increases significantly, the other parent may seek an increase in the child support amount.
  • Change in Custody Arrangements: If there is a change in the amount of time a child spends with each parent, the child support amount may need to be adjusted. For example, if the non-custodial parent begins spending more time with the child, they may be entitled to a reduction in child support payments.
  • Additional Needs of the Child: If the child develops special needs that require additional financial support, such as medical or educational costs, a modification of the child support order may be necessary to ensure these needs are met.

Modifying a child support order requires filing a request with the court and demonstrating that there has been a significant change in circumstances. Our Pasadena child support attorneys are skilled in guiding clients through this process, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and that their client’s case is presented effectively.

At What Age Does a Father Stop Paying Child Support in California? 

In California, the father (or any non-custodial parent) stops paying child support under the following conditions:

  • When the child reaches 18 years old and has graduated high school, or
  • If the child is still attending high school at age 19, the father will continue to pay support until graduation or the child turns 19, whichever happens first.

However, if the child has special needs or is unable to support themselves, child support may continue beyond these ages. The court will assess the situation and determine the duration of the obligation.

How to Fight Unfair Support Orders?

On the other hand, you may be facing a situation where the other parent is fighting to receive more support than is just, or more than you can afford to pay. The legal team at Schweitzer Law Partners is capable of fighting for a fair support judgment and knows how to determine what should or should not be awarded.

Child support payments are calculated using factors such as:

  • Each parent's income
  • Their education
  • Their involvement in the child's life
  • Their disposable income

Consult with a member of our team today to find out what can be done to handle your child support issue.

Do I Need a Lawyer For Child Support in California? 

While you are not required to hire a lawyer for child support matters, having an experienced child support attorney can be beneficial. A California child support lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system, especially if you need to establish, modify, or enforce a child support order. They can ensure that your rights are protected, assist with the child support calculation, and represent you in court if necessary.

Why You Should Work With The Schweitzer Law Partners?

Need an attorney for a child support case in Pasadena, CA? The Schweitzer Law Partners has been in practice for 15 years and has quickly become one of the most recognized family law firms in all of Greater Los Angeles. Our lawyers are proactive and energetic, assessing each client's case individually in order to maximize their results.

In addition, our Pasadena child support lawyers are AV® Rated by Martindale-Hubbell® and our firm was named in the 2009-2012 editions of Pasadena Magazine's Top Attorneys. Contact our firm as soon as possible for the representation and counsel that you need.

Contact us now to get started on your child custody case! Call today - (626) 788-5225

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