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Oak Brook Child Support Attorneys Serving the Chicagoland Area

One of the most contentious issues in a divorce is child support, however, all parents in Illinois have a duty to support their children. If you are considering divorce, the best way to protect your child’s interests is to consult an experienced child support lawyer.

Located in Oak Brook, Goodman Law Firm provides advice and guidance to clients throughout the greater Chicago area on a wide range of family law issues. We have in-depth knowledge of the current laws and guidelines and regularly help mothers and fathers who are seeking to establish, modify or enforce child support orders.

Founding attorney Cameron Goodman has a well-deserved reputation as a dedicated advocate with a proven ability in helping his clients navigate difficult family transitions. Knowing that child support disputes can become emotionally charged, Cameron prefers to reach negotiated settlements. If court intervention becomes necessary, however, he is fully prepared to litigate.

Our legal team will be with you every step of the way, offering trustworthy advice and objective insights. For over 20 years, we have provided our clients with informed representation when they need it most. When you consult with Goodman Law Firm, you will have peace of mind knowing that our experienced child support attorneys are in your corner. Please contact our office today for an evaluation of your case.

How is Child Support Determined in Illinois? 

Prior to July 1, 2017, child support in Illinois was based on a percentage of the paying parent’s income and the number of children in the marriage. Currently, Illinois courts rely on an income shares model that considers the income of both parents to determine their obligation.

Ultimately, the child support guidelines are based on factors such as parenting time and the costs of raising a child (e.g. housing, clothes, food, transportation, ordinary uncovered medical expenses, extracurricular activities, and education). In cases of shared parenting in which the child is overnight with each parent for at least 146 nights per year, the amount of child support owed may change significantly.

It is worth noting that the court may deviate from the state guidelines, as long as it is in the best interests of the children, based on factors such as:

  • The financial needs of the child
  • The financial responsibilities and needs of both parents
  • The physical, emotional and educational needs of the child
  • The standard of living the child would have enjoyed had the parents remained together

Child support must be paid until the child is 18 years old, or 19 years old if the child is attending high school. The court may also have the parent assist with college expenses of a child 19 or older.

At Goodman Law Firm, we are highly experienced in handling these types of family law matters and will work expediently to protect your child’s interests. Above all, we are committed to helping you secure the resources to care for your children after divorce.

Modifications of Child Support

Illinois law allows both parents to request a modification, as long as there has been a substantial change in circumstances. Substantial changes may include:

  • Significant reduction in income due to involuntary job loss or disability
  • An increase in income due to a promotion or new employment that impacts the child support calculation
  • A significant change in parenting time
  • The child becomes emancipated

In any event, the court will only modify an order if it is in the best interests of the child. At Goodman Law Firm, we will take the time to understand your circumstances and can assist with petitioning the court for a modification.

Enforcing an Order

If a parent fails to meet his or her child support obligation, court intervention may be necessary to enforce the order. The court can take a number of actions, including:

  • Wage garnishment (a court order instructing the non-paying parent’s employer to deduct payments from his or her paycheck)
  • Placing a lien on real property
  • Seizing bank accounts

A parent that willfully violates a child support order may also be held in contempt, which could result in a jail time; however, the courts are reluctant to take this measure since the non-paying parent will not be able to earn the income to meet his or her obligation.

Contact our Oak Brook Child Support Lawyers

When you consult with Goodman Law Firm, we will help you navigate the Illinois child support guidelines and make sure your child’s interests are protected. During our many years of practice, we have helped our clients negotiate child custody and child support settlements, but we also have a proven history of achieving successful outcomes in court. If you need assistance with child support or a related family law matter, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

We Are Strategic

Divorce may be clouding your thinking, but not ours. We think strategically about every decision in your case.

We Are Honest

A good outcome for you depends on a candid assessment of your situation. You can expect honest advice about your case at every step.

We Listen

Every client is unique. We’ll get to know you and together craft a plan designed around your specific needs and interests.

Feel Free to Ask a Question

We are here to answer any questions you may have about our legal services and how we can help with your family law problem.

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