Child Support Information

In California, parents are responsible for their child's day-to-day necessities and may be required to pay child support if they do not have physical custody of their child. Child support payments are made until the child turns 18 years of age and finishes high school. These payments cover the shared costs of the child's food, shelter, clothing, education, and health.

How the Court Determines Support

• California law provides for several determining factors before rewarding child support to a parent. The factors the court will consider when calculating a child support award amount include, among others:
• Each parent's gross income from all sources
• The current custody and visitation arrangement
• Insurance premiums and other medical expenses paid by the parents
• Monthly child support paid by the non-custodial parent for other children
• The parents' tax filing status and which parent claims the children as tax exemptions

The various factors are entered into the statutory guideline formula for calculating child support, and the Family Court Judge will invariably make an order consistent with the guideline support calculation. It is essential that parents understand the guideline formula and the significance of the variable factors before seeking child support, to understand the process and what could be expected under state law. A Temecula divorce attorney is available to provide comprehensive information about the guideline formula, as well as legal representation to those looking to settle a matter related to child support.

If you are considering filing for child support, or if you are currently going through a child support action, it is to your benefit to consult with a skilled child support attorney who practices in the California Courts, including Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego Counties. Attorney Sharon L. Tate will represent you in your legal custody matter with the necessary professionalism support your interests and advocate for the custody arrangement that is your personal objective.