Child Support Services in Pasadena, California

Comprehensive Support for Financial Child Support Issues

Many people going through a divorce find themselves concerned about finances. If you are worried about how you will support your children with only half the income or if you will receive alimony after your divorce, Marilyn Smith Law APC can help.

Our California lawyers understand that these are valid concerns and we strive to eliminate the problems that you are burdened with. Our Pasadena child support attorneys can ensure that you understand your rights, options, and what to expect out of litigation.

Understanding Child Support Establishment in California

California uses a concrete formula to make child support decisions. It is a complicated algebraic equation, but it can be explained using its base elements. Essentially, it factors in how much money is needed to support the kids, how much money each parent has to contribute, and how much time each parent spends with the children.

Both parents contribute to child support. Even though payments flow in one direction, the receiving parent uses their income on support. The same is true for the paying parent when they have possession.

When the formula is calculated appropriately, paying parents shouldn’t be overly burdened by child support payments. At its most reasonable, child support should reflect the money you spent on the kids during the marriage. Child support that puts immediate strain on a parent indicates that something went wrong. If you’ve always had trouble making payments, talk to our team. We may be able to appeal to the court and get them to review the original order.

Consequences of Owing Back Child Support in California

When the parent responsible for child support in California owes more than $2,500 in back payments, consistent payment failure in child support will result in a criminal felony charge.

How to Modify Child Support in California

A significant life change may justify a child support alteration. For instance, you may have lost your job or been demoted through no fault. Perhaps you’ve had a new child and need the court to consider your obligation to this baby. If the parent receiving child support remarries, they could technically have more income, allowing the paying parent a support modification.

Many of these modifications may apply to the receiving parent as well. They could, for instance, get laid off from work, requiring more support for the kids. If the paying parent makes more money, the receiving parent can also plea for a tremendous amount of child support.

Contact our team if you need an adjustment in child support, whether you are paying or receiving it. We can evaluate your situation and help you move forward with modification requests.

Can a Lawyer Help You Reduce Child Support Payments?

If you have an existing child support order, an attorney can assist you in changing the amount, if necessary, by filing an adjustment demand (often called a "Motion to Customize"). Your attorney must also gather any required proof, such as tax returns, pay stubs, and other financial details.

Our Pasadena-based child support attorney will help you with:

• Establishing child support
• Modifying an existing child support order
• Enforcing child support if the other parent refuses to pay

Our Pasadena family law attorneys at Marilyn Smith Law APC are familiar with the Los Angeles county laws that govern alimony payments. Whether you are hoping to avoid child support payments or you are seeking monthly payments, our divorce lawyers can present your case in a California court and represent your best interests. Your well-being is our priority.