Experienced San Bernardino Lawyer Represents Clients in Child Support Matters

California family law attorney pursues fair orders for those who will pay or receive support

Child support can be among the most contentious and complicated issues during a divorce. At Granowitz White & Weber in San Bernardino, we are pleased to serve clients throughout the Inland Empire. Firm member Richard A. Granowitz, a specialist in family law certified by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization, has the skills and in-depth experience needed to effectively represent parents in child support disputes. He staunchly advocates for fair child support orders for parents seeking support as well as parents who may be ordered to pay it.

How is child support calculated?

After a divorce or separation, both parents remain responsible for supporting their minor children. If parents cannot agree on the amount of child support payments, a judge will calculate monthly payments using official state guidelines, taking into consideration these factors:

• The parents’ jobs and the income from those jobs
• Each parent’s earning potential
• Other income the parents may be receiving
• How much time the child lives or stays with each parent
• The number of children that the parents have together
• Whether either parent provides support to children from other relationships

The court may also consider other factors deemed relevant. When our attorney represents you in your child support matter, he will examine all aspects of your situation and that of the other parent in order to prepare a strong case that leads to a fair and sufficient support order.

What modifications can be made to child support?

Child support payments can be increased or decreased when there has been a substantial change in circumstances since the last court order was entered. Either the paying or receiving parent can request a modification. Some of the reasons that the court might grant a request include the following:

• An involuntary job loss or job gain
• An increase or decrease in income
• A change in child custody or visitation orders
• A change in the child’s healthcare, educational or other needs
• An increase in family size, such as with the birth of a new baby

Our attorney will help you gather the evidence needed to prove or disprove a change in circumstances and will stand up for your interests throughout the modification request process.

When can child support be terminated?

Court-ordered child support payments in California typically come to an end when a child:

• Reaches the age of 18, or age 19 if still in high school and living with a parent
• Is declared legally emancipated by the court, which can happen as early as age 14 depending on the situation
• Gets married or enters a registered domestic partnership
• Joins the military

However, the court may order that support continue for an adult child who is disabled and unable to be self-supporting. If you are wondering when you can stop paying child support, or are worried about it ending, our family law attorney will counsel you about how the law applies in your circumstances.

Contact a knowledgeable San Bernardino family lawyer for help with your child support matter

At Granowitz White & Weber, our California certified family law specialist has decades of experience successfully representing clients in the San Bernardino area with child support issues. To schedule a consultation, call our firm at 909-890-1717 or contact us online.