Lombard Child Support Attorney
Lombard Child Support Attorney
Child support is one of the most critical issues in a divorce or when two parents are no longer in a relationship or living together. However, the status of the relationship between the two parents shouldn’t impact the financial support of their offspring. Understandably, it can be difficult to negotiate agreements that work for both parents and are in the child’s best interest. However, a well-versed Lombard child support attorney can help you as you face this task.
Calculating Child Support in Illinois
Previously, child support in Illinois was calculated using a set amount of parental income and the number of children they had. Since 2019, Illinois has subscribed to the income shares model when it comes to calculating child support. This approach considers the parents’ incomes, the number of children they each have, and the current and local cost of living. The income shares model further standardizes child support and makes it reasonable because it is based on the specific situation.Â
A simple way to estimate child support is to:
- Add each parents’ monthly net income together after using the Illinois standardized income conversion chart to determine net income.
- Take the current total basic support obligation (currently $1,215 per month per child) and multiply it by the number of children.
- Add any extra expenses to this number such as:
- Insurance premiums
- Extracurricular activities and expenses
- Childcare costs
- Divide each parent’s adjusted net income by the combined net income to determine their percentage of contribution.
- Multiply each parent’s percentage by the total support obligation to get the sum each parent is expected to pay for child support.
The child support analysis does not end there; it is more complex. The final payment of child support, if any, will also depend on the amount of time each parents has parenting time with the child or children. Keep in mind that there may be other factors that can impact child support. It’s best to discuss your specific situation with an experienced Lombard child support attorney.
Can Child Support be Modified?
Court-ordered child support is intended to be permanent. However, courts understand that life doesn’t stay the same. One parent might have more children, obtain or lose employment, or get a raise. When these life circumstances occur and can substantially change how much child support one parent pays or receives, the courts allow either parent to file a petition for a post-decree modification.Â
If you think there are circumstances in your life that might warrant such a petition, reach out to a knowledgeable Lombard child support lawyer at the Goodman Law Firm for help. We can assist you in determining if you need to file a petition and what your new child support payments should be.
Contact a Lombard Child Support Attorney for Help
If you have children and are going through a divorce or otherwise aren’t living with your child’s other parent, child support is likely one of the issues you worry about the most. Whether you are on the paying or receiving end, it’s critical to ensure that the calculations are done correctly so that your child can get the financial support they need and deserve. A compassionate Lombard child support lawyer can help with this difficult issue. Simply contact us today to schedule your consultation and find out more about our services.Â
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.