Orange Park Child Support Lawyer

Child Support Representation in Clay County

Irrespective of the marital status of a child's parents, both are responsible for the financial well-being of their minor children. If you're going through a divorce involving children, it is crucial to consult an experienced child support attorney in the vicinity of Orange Park, FL. At Owenby Law, P.A., our proficient child support lawyers in Clay County are here to provide assistance.

Who is Responsible for Child Support in Florida?

When one parent has significantly more custodial time with the child or bears the majority of the child's expenses, the other parent is generally obligated to pay child support as per the law.

Often, parents can come to an agreement that fairly distributes the financial responsibility of raising the child. However, there are situations where the offered child support is inadequate or circumstances change, necessitating a modification of the existing agreement.

If you or your spouse serve in the military, the circumstances may differ from what is outlined here. Nevertheless, the attorneys at Owenby Law, P.A. have experience handling cases involving military divorce.

In such cases, a child support attorney in Orange Park can be of assistance. Contact Owenby Law, P.A. for a complimentary 30-minute consultation. Call us today!

How is Child Support Calculated in Florida?

Calculating child support can be complex. Nonetheless, a knowledgeable attorney can determine the legal requirements by examining the financial records of both parties. If the other parent is uncooperative, the courts can subpoena the necessary records.

In Florida, child support calculations are based on:

• The amount of time the child spends with each parent.
• The total monthly incomes of both parents.
• The total monthly expenses of both parents.
• The child's standard needs, such as food and clothing.
• Daycare costs (extended day or childcare).
• Healthcare and educational expenses of the child.
• Any outstanding child support owed by one parent.

Can Child Support Payments be Modified?

Sometimes, the circumstances of one or both parents change, requiring a modification of child support. The supporting parent may experience a loss of income or deteriorating health. The parent receiving child support may improve their circumstances and require less assistance. The child may now require specialized services like tutoring or orthodontic treatment. Even changes in shared parenting agreements can necessitate a recalibration of support.

Whether you are the supporting or receiving parent, Owenby Law, P.A. can assist you in filing a modification through the courts.

Child Support for Children Over 18

In Florida, child support is intended to financially support a dependent minor child. Typically, child support obligations cease when the child reaches the age of 18 (unless otherwise agreed) as they are no longer considered a child. However, there are exceptions where a parent may continue to receive child support payments despite the child attaining legal adulthood.

In Florida, a child over the age of 18 may still require financial support if:

• The child is mentally incapacitated and requires additional support.
• The child is physically incapacitated and requires additional support.
• The child is still in high school but will graduate before turning 19.

According to Florida Statute 743.07(2), the parent of the dependent adult child is the appropriate party to request support for that child despite their legal adulthood when seeking a modification of child support obligations.

If you are considering a child support modification, the family lawyers in Orange Park at Owenby Law, P.A. are ready to assist you in finding an effective solution as promptly as possible.

Do you require legal representation for a child support case? Contact us immediately at (904) 770-3141 or reach out to us online to speak with an experienced child support lawyer near Orange Park, FL.