Columbus Child Support Lawyer

Secure Your Child's Financial Future in Ohio

Ending a relationship can bring with it various issues that will have a major impact on your life as well as the lives of your children. One of the most important issues that attends such an event is the matter of child support.

Under Ohio law, all parents are responsible for financially supporting the children they have:

• Whether the parents are married or not
• Whether they are unemployed or have lucrative careers
• Or whether they are self-employed

The state establishes child support based on statutory guidelines established under Ohio Revised Code which must be followed. In dealing with child support, whether you are seeking it, seeking to enforce or modify an already standing order, or contesting it, you should seek competent legal representation.

This is true for all parents but especially for those with an affluent income, those who are self-employed, and for those who share parenting on close to an equal basis. At Boller & Petty, LLC, our firm has extensive experience in helping parents deal with this matter.

Talk to a Columbus child support attorney about your case. Call (614) 756-2827to set up a consultation or contact us online.

Understanding Child Support Calculations in Ohio

Child support is a financial obligation that ensures children receive the necessary resources for their upbringing, including food, clothing, education, and healthcare.

Child support guidelines under Ohio law have been established based on the combined incomes of parents who earn up to $300,000 annually or less.

Calculation of child support is generally based on the following factors:

• The combined incomes of the parents
• Work-related childcare or daycare expenses
• Health insurance premiums and education expenses for the child
• Taxes
• Alimony/spousal support from a previous relationship being supplied or received
• Child support being supplied for children from a previous relationship
• How many children require support from the current relationship
• The needs of the children
• A parent’s ability to pay

In cases where a child has special needs, additional support may be sought and awarded by the court. In general, courts have the discretion to adjust support payments up or down based on the individual needs of the child and the financial circumstances of the parents.

These would be cases where strictly following the state’s formula would not be considered appropriate, equitable, or in a child’s best interests. For those parents who earn in excess of $300,000 annually, the issue can become more complex and will likely need to be resolved in court. It is highly recommended that you seek legal assistance in such cases.

Initial Child Support Determination

When starting the child support process, one of the first steps is to gather financial information from both parents. This data typically includes income statements, tax returns, and details of any other sources of income.

Our team will assist you in compiling and presenting this information to facilitate a fair assessment. We will work to ensure that all relevant factors, including potential deductions for other dependents or child-related expenses, are considered.

Modifications to Child Support

Life circumstances can change, necessitating modifications to existing child support agreements. Whether due to job loss, a change in income, or shifts in the child’s needs, our firm can help you navigate these changes. We will analyze your situation to determine if a modification is warranted and assist you in filing the necessary documentation with the court.

Enforcement of Child Support in Ohio

Enforcing child support agreements is critical for ensuring that financial obligations are met. If a parent is not complying with the court-ordered support, we can guide you through the enforcement process. This may involve filing a motion with the court, seeking wage garnishment, or exploring other legal remedies to secure the financial support your child deserves.

Updates to Ohio Child Support Laws

In 2019, changes were made to Ohio law regarding child support. These include an automatic 10 percent reduction in cases where a parent has been granted and is using 90 or more overnights with a child (which is 25 percent of the yearly available) per year.

A revision in the guidelines was also made to give an additional deduction to a parent who has been granted 147 (40 percent of the yearly available) or more overnights with a child. If the court does not grant an additional deduction in these cases, it must provide a justifiable explanation.

Why Choose Boller & Petty, LLC for Child Support Matters

At Boller & Petty, LLC, our attorneys bring decades of combined experience and a deep understanding of the complex dynamics involved in child support cases. We recognize that family law is not just about legalities; it encompasses emotional challenges, financial implications, and the profound impact on your family’s future.

From determining the appropriate child support amount to advocating for modifications and enforcement, our Columbus child support attorneys will be your steadfast allies. We take pride in offering high-quality legal representation at reasonable rates, ensuring you receive the support you need without unnecessary financial strain.

Contact Our Columbus Child Support Attorney Today

Fighting to secure child support, to get it modified when your financial circumstances change, or to get it enforced can be stressful. Our legal team knows what to do, how to do it, and will provide the guidance and strong legal representation you need when seeking to resolve this issue through family court. Visit our reviews page to see what our clients have to say about working with us.

Let our competent team work for you – contact our Columbus child support attorneys at (614) 756-2827or contact us online to get started today.

Commonly Asked Questions on Child Support

Is Child Support Temporary or Permanent?

Child support is generally established until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later. However, support can continue longer in certain situations, such as for a child with disabilities.

Can I Request Temporary Child Support During Divorce Proceedings?

Yes, it is possible to request temporary child support while divorce proceedings are ongoing. This ensures that the child's financial needs are met during the process.

How Do Parenting Time Arrangements Affect Child Support?

Parenting time arrangements can influence child support calculations. The amount of time each parent spends with the child may lead to adjustments in the support amount.

What Documentation Do I Need to Establish Child Support?

To establish child support, you will typically need to provide financial documents such as pay stubs, tax returns, and any additional income sources. Each parent should also provide information regarding their expenses and the child’s needs.