Your Guides Through the Legal Process

Legal Representation To Secure Fair Child Support

When families go through the struggle of divorce or separation, they must consider many details. One of the most important considerations is how to continue to care for children appropriately. At Carr Law Firm P.L.C., we understand that finding balanced support options that keep both parents financially stable is key to addressing children’s support needs. Our team of professional lawyers is thoroughly committed to helping clients reach agreements through negotiation or, if required, in the courtroom.

Our respected team of legal professionals has over 40 years of combined experience in child support legal issues, and we are standing by to represent clients in Des Moines and surrounding areas.

How Are Child Support Amounts Determined In Iowa?

In the state of Iowa, a court can determine the following factors governing child support:

  • Which parent will receive or pay the child support payments
  • The dollar amount of the required support
  • The frequency of payments

An established formula set by Iowa’s state guidelines will determine the dollar amount and may take into account some of the following factors:

  • How often each parent has the child in their care
  • Total gross monthly income for each parent
  • Existing child care expenses such as day care or after-school care
  • The cost of health insurance
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Other costs related to the care of the child

Exceptions To Established Child Support Calculation

Exceptions to the amount set forth by the formula are available, but are rarely granted. There are some types of occupations where income is open to different determinations such as:

  • Contractors
  • Freelancers
  • Business owners

After being established, a child support agreement may be modified in the future if either parent’s income or other circumstances change substantially.

Call Or Email Our Firm Today To Discuss Your Child Support Options

Our dedicated lawyers are well-respected across the state for helping clients overcome legal challenges. Contact our office today and allow our attorneys to sit down with you during a no-fee initial consultation to discuss your options. We provide the sound legal counsel clients seek when looking at their available options to make smart decisions for themselves and their families. Give us a call today at 515-259-1389. Additionally, you can reach us via email, or complete a contact form online. Visit our firm in the Plaza Building in downtown Des Moines.