As you know, if you are a divorcing parent in California, there are few things more important than being able to care for and raise your child. For this very reason, courts in California will often award one spouse child support payments so they can continue raising their child and upholding their child’s standard of life. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable California family law attorneys to learn more about child support in the state of California and how our firm can help you through every step of the legal process ahead. Here are some of the questions you may have:
How do California courts determine child support?
The two primary factors that California courts will consider when determining child support are your child’s best interests and both you and your former spouse’s financial situation. In most cases, the financially dependent spouse will be the one who is awarded support payments, and the financially independent spouse will have to supply the payments. To obtain child support, you will have to file a court order. You should understand, however, that support typically begins on the date the order is filed. Child support is not retroactive before filing, which is why when it comes to child support, time is of the essence.
When does child support end in California?
In most cases, support will end when your child turns 18 or graduates high school. However, you should understand that there are various circumstances that may warrant either an extension on child support or, on the other hand, early termination of child support, depending on the situation. For example, in many cases, if your child has special needs or plans on attending higher education/university, there is a very good chance your child will require additional support past the age of 18, and you may be entitled to a modification of your support agreement. Conversely, if your child has become financially independent or otherwise no longer requires child support payments and he or she is younger than 18, you may also request early termination of your child support agreement. If you have any additional questions about child support, please do not hesitate to speak with our experienced California family law attorneys today. We are always here to help.
Contact our experienced Los Angeles firm
Divorce and family law issues are notoriously complicated and personal, which is why you must hire an attorney with years of experience, as well as the compassion and skill needed to handle these sensitive matters. For the qualified, dedicated legal representation you and your family deserve and need, contact Zitser Family Law Group, APC today.
