Diamond Bar Child Support Lawyer

Trusted Legal Support for Your Child's Financial Future in California

Navigating the complexities of child support can be a challenging journey, and at Apex Lawyers, we're here to guide you through every step. Our seasoned legal experts specialize in child support cases, providing unwavering support to clients in Diamond Bar and beyond. Understanding your rights and obligations is crucial, and our team is dedicated to ensuring that you receive the assistance you need.

Call Apex Lawyers today at (909) 306-5985 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our child support attorney in Diamond Bar!

What is Child Support? 

Child support is a court-ordered payment made by one parent to the other to help cover the costs of raising a child. The amount of child support is determined by a formula that considers both parents' income, the amount of time the child spends with each parent, and other factors.

Our seasoned attorneys bring a wealth of experience to the table, ensuring that our clients are well-informed about the intricacies of child support laws in California. We understand that each case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of our clients.

How Is Child Support Calculated in California?

California uses a formula to calculate child support. This formula is based on several factors, including:

• The income of both parents
• The amount of time the child spends with each parent
• The number of children the parents have together
• Whether either parent has children from a previous relationship
• Whether either parent is supporting children from a previous relationship
• Whether either parent is paying or receiving spousal support
• Whether either parent has tax deductions
• Whether either parent has mandatory union dues
• Whether either parent has the cost of traveling for visitation
• Whether either parent has the cost of a mortgage or property tax
• Whether either parent has the cost of a second job

It is important to note that the court has the discretion to deviate from the formula if it is in the child's best interests to do so. For example, if the child has special needs, the court may order more child support.

How Long Does Child Support Last in California?

In California, child support generally lasts until the child turns 18. However, if the child is still in high school at 18, child support will continue until the child turns 19 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs first. Child support may also continue indefinitely if the child is unable to support themselves due to a disability.

What Happens If I Can't Afford to Pay Child Support?

If you cannot afford child support payments, you should not stop paying. Instead, you should take legal action to modify your child support order. If you have experienced a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss or a reduction in income, you may be able to have your child support order modified. However, you will need to take legal action to do so.

What Happens If My Ex-Spouse Stops Paying Child Support?

If your ex-spouse stops paying child support, you have a few options. First, you can try to work out a payment plan with your ex-spouse. If this is impossible, you can take legal action to enforce the child support order. There are several ways to enforce a child support order, including:

• Wage garnishment
• Seizure of bank accounts
• Liens on property
• Suspension of a driver's license
• Suspension of a professional license
• Contempt of court

If your ex-spouse is not paying child support, consult an experienced child support attorney in California to discuss your options.