Following a divorce or separation, ensuring that your children are financially provided for is important. It is equally important to have experienced legal representation at your side during this time.
At the law firm of Baskin & Baskin, P.C., our Marietta child support attorneys have been providing family legal services to people throughout the Atlanta metro area since 1974. Support cases can be challenging, especially when parents disagree about who should pay and how much. We are here to answer your questions, calculate support payments and let you know what you can expect down the line.
Factors Used to Determine Support Payments
The state of Georgia outlines general child support guidelines. Family courts will consider a number of factors when deciding on a reasonable amount of child support, including:
- Educational costs
- Medical expenses
- Special expenses for children
- Day care costs
- Shared physical custody
- Travel costs for out-of-town parents
In addition, the incomes of the custodial and noncustodial parents will also be factored into the equation. While child support modifications can be filed after an order or divorce agreement is finalized, it is best to come as close as possible to an agreement that will work for all of the parties in the first place in order to avoid a future modification action. Our attorneys will work closely with you to help reach an amicable agreement that suits the individual needs of your family.
Helping Children Get the Financial Help to Which They Are Entitled
Under Georgia law, a parent who is ordered to pay child support, or to provide medical insurance or to pay for medical bills, can be held in contempt for the failure to make payments in a timely manner. The punishment for contempt of court can include fines, probation and potential jail time.
In other cases, it may be best to pursue a garnishment of wages, where a portion of the parent’s check will be pulled out for support on a monthly or weekly basis. This is often a simple and inexpensive method of collecting support when a parent eventually pays but is often late or skips a few payments. Our attorneys have the experience to analyze the situation and to inform you of your best options for recovery.