Whether you are looking to establish an initial child support order or needing to modify or enforce an existing one, Ohio family lawyer John Heilbrun can help you navigate this complex issue. Child support is most often based upon the Ohio Child Support Guidelines, however, the amount of the child support to be paid may be more or less than this amount if it would be in the children’s best interests. In Collaborative divorce or other Dissolution the parents may agree to so deviate from the child support guidelines based upon their determination as to the needs of both the parents and children. Attorney Heilbrun can assist you in all custody and child support matters, ensuring both your and your child’s needs are taken into consideration.
Factors in Child Support
Under Ohio Divorce Law, there is presumption that the amount of child support provided based upon the Ohio Child Support Guidelines is the amount that should be paid. The factors that are included in the computation of child support under the Child Support Guidelines include the gross income and earning capacity of each parent; work related child care expenses; health insurance expenses attributable to providing coverage for the children; local income taxes paid; any alimony/spousal support paid or received by one spouse to the other; and whether either parent has custody of and/or pays or receives child support in connection with a child outside of the marriage.
The factors to be considered in determining whether the amount of child support should be more or less than that set forth on the Child Support Guidelines include any special or unusual needs of the children; any extraordinary obligations for the children; the amount of time the children will be residing with each parent; the disparity in income between the parents or households; significant in-kind contributions by either parent; the physical and emotional needs of the children; the responsibility of each parent for the support of others; and any benefits that either parent receives from remarriage or sharing living expenses with someone else.
All of these factors can change as a child ages or if extraordinary medical or educational needs arise. They can also change as parents move on and start new families. As a result child support is an issue that is frequently revisited after the divorce until the child reaches adulthood.
Grounds for Modification
Both mothers and fathers can file for a child support modification. Factors that may necessitate a modification include:
- Changes in the child’s primary residence
- Changes in the employment status or earnings of either parent
- Obligations for the support of additional children
- Unexpected medical or educational expenses
During your initial consultation, attorney Heilbrun will be happy to answer any child support questions you may have, and to help you determine the course of action that will most benefit your child.
If you are looking for a child support attorney in or around Cincinnati, Ohio, please contact the Law Office of John Heilbrun to schedule an appointment at our Hyde Park or Blue Ash office today.