When you are divorcing, it can be hard to focus on any one element of the proceedings. Most find that their thoughts and emotions fluctuate according to the topic at hand. This is particularly troubling when you have children to worry about in addition to yourself.
Even though you feel concerned about the overall welfare of your kids, you may overlook certain matters such as child support. As you know, raising children comes with a multitude of expenses. In most Des Moines, Iowa, families, it takes two incomes to raise kids. This means that the noncustodial parent must pay child support to help the custodial parent cover these and other expenses.
When entering child support proceedings, a family law attorney can help you understand what is happening. Sound legal counsel also ensures your and your children’s rights remain protected. In the meantime, we have provided a brief list of things to consider when it is time to determine your child’s support needs
- Courts take both parents’ complete income into account when making support decisions.
- Any government assistance a parent receives does not count as income.
- If a couple shares a dependent with mental or physical disabilities, support obligations can continue indefinitely.
- Child support is meant to at least cover a child’s basic needs (food, shelter, health care, education, etc.).
- If the noncustodial parent fails to pay, the state of Iowa has several ways to enforce and collect child support.
We know that you are struggling to balance a great many things during this difficult time whether you are the custodial or noncustodial parent. As such, we urge you to reach out for assistance. Doing so can help you keep your focus where it belongs—on the best needs of your children. You can learn more by continuing to browse our firm’s family law pages.
