Tailored Child Support Based on Family Circumstances
At CLS Law Firm, we understand that each family’s financial situation is different. We assist clients by conducting thorough assessments that take into account both parents’ incomes, the child’s needs, and other relevant factors that may affect the child’s well-being.
Support Consistent with Legal Standards: We assist in establishing child support arrangements that reflect the financial responsibilities of both parents and comply with Florida’s legal requirements.
Financial Review: We review income, expenses, and other relevant factors to help determine support amounts in accordance with the statutory guidelines.
Considering Time-Sharing in Child Support
Time-sharing, Florida’s term for physical custody, can affect child support calculations. Our attorneys take parenting schedules into account during financial evaluations to help ensure support considers each parent’s responsibilities.
Time-Sharing Integration: We evaluate how parenting time impacts financial obligations, including related expenses such as transportation, housing, and daily care.
Encouraging Active Co-Parenting: Our approach supports legal outcomes that encourage parental involvement and aim to contribute to a stable environment for the child.
Legal Guidance for Child Support Matters
CLS Law Firm offers legal services to assist families in navigating Florida’s child support system. We provide guidance on calculating, modifying, and enforcing child support, with attention to the child’s needs.
Legal Advocacy and Guidance: We offer representation in court and negotiations, providing legal advice tailored to each family’s unique circumstances.
Application of Guidelines: Our attorneys apply Florida Child Support Guidelines to help ensure outcomes align with state law and are based on accurate financial information.
How is child support calculated in Florida?
In Florida, child support calculations follow the Florida Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines consider factors such as the combined income of both parents, the number of children involved, and the expenses related to health insurance and daycare for the children. The guidelines are designed to allocate financial responsibility for raising children based on each parent's income and the time each parent spends with the children.
Can parents agree to an amount different from the guideline calculation?
Parents may agree on a child support amount that differs from the guideline calculation; however, such agreements must be submitted to and approved by the court. The court will review the agreement to determine whether it appropriately addresses the child's financial needs.
What happens if a parent does not pay child support?
The Florida Department of Revenue enforces child support orders using various methods, including wage garnishment, suspension of driving and professional licenses, intercepting tax refunds, and other enforcement measures to facilitate child support payment compliance.
Can child support orders be modified?
Child support orders in Florida may be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. Examples of such changes include a substantial change in income, alterations in health care costs, or changes in the child’s financial needs. Either parent may request a review of the child support order under these conditions. Each case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits. Past results are not a guarantee of future outcomes.
Does shared parenting time affect child support?
In Florida, the amount of time a child spends with each parent can affect the calculation of child support. Increased time-sharing with the non-custodial parent may influence the child support payment, as it reflects the financial contributions during the time the child is with that parent. Each case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits. Past results are not a guarantee of future outcomes.
Are medical and educational expenses included in child support?
Child support orders in Florida may include health care costs, such as health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket medical expenses, as well as educational expenses. These costs are in addition to the basic child support obligation to address the child's health and educational needs.
What age does child support end in Florida?
Child support obligations in Florida generally end when the child turns 18 years old. However, if the child is still attending high school at 18, support may continue until the child graduates or reaches 19 years of age, whichever occurs first, unless other circumstances such as disability apply.
Can back child support be waived in Florida?
Back child support, or arrears, generally cannot be waived in Florida. In some cases, parents may discuss payment plans or settlements to manage outstanding arrears, but such agreements require court approval.
How is child support paid and received in Florida?
Child support payments in Florida are generally processed through the Florida State Disbursement Unit (SDU). Recipients may receive payments via direct deposit, check, or a prepaid debit card, providing an organized and trackable payment system.
What if the parent required to pay support lives out of state?
When a non-custodial parent resides outside of Florida, child support orders may be enforced through the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA), which facilitates cooperation between states to manage child support obligations across state lines.
