Modification and Enforcement of Child Support
Child support is a monetary payment that a noncustodial parent pays toward the living expenses of their children. The amount of child support is based primarily on the noncustodial parent’s net income, although factors such as medical insurance costs, day care and school expenses and living arrangements can be considered. Although child support payments often can be agreed upon between parents, a knowledgeable family lawyer Chicago IL can explain how it is calculated and help you finalize fair, precise terms.
The payment of child support is determined by the court taking into account the best interest of the child. It is not intended to be punishment for the parent that is required to pay support, nor should it be considered a windfall for the parent receiving support.
How Much Child Support Will I Have To Pay?
There are a number of factors that impact the final child support amount and an experienced Chicago child custody attorney can help make a strong and reasoned argument that best supports your position. Some of the factors that the court may consider in determining a fair child support amount are the incomes of both parents, the custody arrangement as well as any special needs of the children.
Enforcement of Child Support
Not following a court order or judgment regarding child support can cause hardship to the other party. As a result, the Illinois court system takes these violations seriously, and a contempt action can result. Depending on the specific circumstances, consequences of a contempt action can include wage garnishment, money judgments and even possible incarceration of the offending party.
If, for any reason, your former spouse fails to live up to his or her payment obligations, we can assist you with enforcement of court-ordered child support.
If you are the non-custodial parent paying child support, don’t wait until the court holds you in contempt for failing to abide by the terms of your divorce settlement or court order. The child support attorneys at Hoffenberg and Block assist clients in Cook, Lake, DuPage, Will and McHenry counties in Illinois, and throughout the Chicago metro area to establish manageable child support agreements. We also offer experienced legal counsel in the modification and enforcement of existing orders of support.
Modification of Child Support Payments
In the event of unforeseen circumstances such as illness, injury, loss of gainful employment or change in the child’s needs, a situation may present itself that requires a modification to the amount of child support to be paid.
To modify a standing child support agreement, you need to prove that there has been a substantial material change in the circumstances for a parent or child.
Requests for modification can often be made based on the following changes:
- Change in the child’s needs
- Change in a parent’s financial status
- Change in a parent’s employment status
- Change in a parent’s health condition
If you find yourself faced with one of the conditions mentioned above, our experienced family law attorneys can assist you with required document preparation and legal representation to petition the court in an effort modify the amount of child support you are required or pay or are entitled to receive.
Schedule a No Obligation Case Evaluation Today
At Hoffenberg and Block, we provide personal, professional representation for a wide range of child support matters. Whether you need to establish child support or are in need of assistance with child support collection or modification, we are prepared to guide you through every step of the process. Our Chicago child support attorneys are dedicated to helping you obtain the best possible outcome to your situation. We handle spousal and child support cases in Cook, Lake, DuPage, Will and McHenry Counties in Illinois and throughout the Chicagoland area.
To discuss your child support issue with an experienced Chicago Child Support Attorney, contact Hoffenberg & Block today at 312-853-8000 or Click Here to schedule a confidential case evaluation.
Question: I am getting a divorce in Chicago, and I am worried about how much child support I will have to pay. Can a Chicago divorce attorney from Hoffenberg & Block, LLC, help me?
Answer: Yes, a Chicago divorce attorney from Hoffenberg & Block, LLC, can help you understand the child support laws in Illinois and how they apply to your situation. They can also help you negotiate a fair child support agreement with your ex-spouse, or represent you in court if necessary. The income of both parents, the number of children, and the amount of time each parent spends with the children all play a role in determining how much child support you will be required to pay. In Illinois, child support is calculated using a formula that is based on these factors. A Chicago divorce attorney from Hoffenberg & Block, LLC, can help you understand this formula and how it will affect your child support obligation. They can also help you negotiate a fair child support agreement with your ex-spouse, or represent you in court if necessary. Here are some of the specific ways that a Chicago divorce attorney from Hoffenberg & Block, LLC, can help you with child support:
- Help you understand the Illinois child support laws.
- Help you calculate your child support obligation.
- Help you negotiate a fair child support agreement with your ex-spouse.
- Represent you in court if necessary to obtain or modify child support.
If you are getting a divorce in Chicago and you are worried about child support, it is important to speak with an experienced divorce attorney as soon as possible. A good divorce attorney can help you understand your rights and options and protect your interests.