What Expenses Are Included In Child Support Payments?

Divorce can be difficult not only for you and your spouse but also for your children. It is important to keep their needs in mind while working on issues such as child support and custody. I am Jorge A. Pichardo Jr., Attorney At Law, and I can work with you on how California law impacts these matters while working toward the best possible outcome for all involved.

Child support payments are made until a child turns 18 and graduates high school or turns 19, becomes emancipated or self-sufficient, which can include marriage or joining the military.

These payments can cover a range of expenses, including:

• Bare necessities
• Education and school fees
• Medical expenses
• Extracurricular activities
• Entertainment

There are several factors the family court considers when establishing the amount of child support one parent pays to the other parent. Generally, the parent with whom the child does not live with will be the parent paying a higher amount of support. Sometimes, exceptions to the guidelines may apply because of your child’s special medical or educational needs. I will help you understand the family court’s guidelines upon which child support is calculated and help you establish the accurate amount. 

I Can Help You Establish Custody And Visitation

You will not only have to determine child support as part of your divorce process but also child custody. Several factors come into play in California when a court is establishing custody arrangements. The most important one is the best interests of your child. Other factors can include age, emotional ties, health, and connection to community at school.

Child custody procedure in the state centers around a parenting plan, which lays out the details of custody. If this plan is not in the best interests of your child, a court will not accept it. I can assist you in drafting a parenting plan that safeguards the best interest of your child.

If your child lives with your ex, the parenting plan will normally include a set schedule for your visitation rights. If parents agree to the arrangement, the court will ordinarily incorporate it into the parenting plan. However, there may be disputes or reasons for establishing supervised visitation. If a parent is a danger to the child, the court may grant no visitation.

Over time, due to changes in your child’s needs or personal circumstances, you may need to modify custody or support agreements. I can work with you on filing the proper paperwork to see if the modification is possible.

Schedule An Appointment To Learn More

The laws around child support and child custody can be complex, and when emotions are involved, these matters can become even more difficult. I can ease some of the stress you may be feeling when faced with these issues. Email my firm or call 800-626-7041 to schedule an appointment and learn more about how I can help you.