Child Support Lawyers Downers Grove
Child Support Lawyers Downers Grove
All parents have a legal and ethical obligation to provide financial support to their children at least until they turn eighteen or until they graduate from high school. Many parents offer financial support through college and graduate school. If a child has a disability, the financial obligation to support your child may continue well into adulthood. When your relationship with your child’s other parent ends, your obligation to support your children remains.  Whether you are going through a divorce, were never married to your child’s other parent, or need to make changes in child support, our skilled child support lawyers in Downers Grove are here to help.Â
How is Child Support Calculated in Illinois?
Prior to 2017, Illinois used a percentage-based formula to calculate child support. Now they use an income shares model. This model takes into account both parents’ incomes and is based on the belief that both parents should be responsible for the financial obligations to their children. It also considers how much the parents would have spent had they remained in a relationship with shared finances.Â
Family court judges are required to start by using the state’s approved method of calculation. Then, depending on the family’s circumstances, they can deviate from that formula to adequately address the child’s financial needs. Factors they might consider include the:
- Child’s probable standard of living if their parents had stayed together
- Child’s physical and emotional condition
- Child’s educational needs, and
- Financial needs and resources of the child and each parent
In some cases, the judge can also consider certain expenses such as private school tuition, health care expenses, daycare, and extracurricular activities when determining child support payments. A judge will also take into account that a parent who makes a significant income will be able to pay more. In contrast, a parent who makes little won’t be able to pay as much. Anytime the judge deviates from the state-mandated guidelines, they must explain in writing why they did so. If there are other factors you believe should be considered in your specific set of circumstances, be sure to check with your child support attorneys in Downers Grove.
Can Child Support Orders be Changed?
Parents can pursue a support order modification. However, they must show the court there is a significant change in circumstances since the last order was issued, or they must prove that:
- There is a difference of at least 20 percent but not less than $10 per month between the current order and a new amount using the state guidelines.
- That there is a need to pay for for the child’s health care needs through insurance or other ways
In Illinois, child support obligations end when the child turns 18. If the child is still going to high school full-time, the obligation ends when they turn 19 or graduate from high school, whichever occurs first. If the child is disabled and won’t be able to support themselves, it may continue after that time. In some cases, parents may have an obligation to help pay for college expenses, even when their child is over 18 or 19.
Contact Child Support Lawyers in Downers Grove for Help Today
Child support can be a highly contentious issue between two parents who are trying to raise a child without living together. It can also be confusing and overwhelming. Having the expertise and support of experienced child support lawyers can make this experience much less stressful for you. Contact us today to receive your child support case consultation with experienced child support attorneys in Downers Grove.
FAQs About Divorce in Illinois
What should I do if I have been served with divorce papers?
If you have received service of divorce papers, contact an experienced divorce attorney to review the documents, understand your rights, and plan your next steps. Time is critical in divorce proceedings, and having skilled legal counsel from the start can make all the difference.
How can I prepare for my initial consultation with a divorce attorney?
Bring documents such as financial records, prenuptial agreements, and a list of any questions you have. Be prepared to discuss your relevant goals and concerns openly and honestly. The more information you provide, the better we can assess your situation and develop a strategy that serves your best interests.
How are collaborative law, mediation, and negotiation different?
- Collaborative law is a structured process where both parties and their attorneys commit to resolving the divorce without going to court. It involves open communication and cooperation, with the goal of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.
- In mediation, a neutral third-party mediator facilitates discussions to help divorcing parties reach a mutual agreement. Rather than making decisions, the mediator guides the negotiation process toward productive outcomes.
- Negotiation involves discussions between the parties directly or their attorneys to settle divorce terms. Unlike mediation, there is no neutral third party.
What should I expect during the divorce process?
The process typically involves filing for divorce, exchanging information, negotiating terms, and finalizing the agreement. If negotiations fail, courtroom litigation will become part of the process.
What happens if my spouse refuses to cooperate during the divorce?
If your spouse is uncooperative, the court may have to intervene to resolve disputes. At Goodman Law Firm, our attorney has experience in handling contentious cases and will advocate for your interests even in circumstances where spousal cooperation is limited.