Poughkeepsie Child Support Lawyer

Securing Fair Payments for Your Children in Dutchess County

In addition to child custody, one of the most contentious issues in divorce and family law proceedings is the matter of child support. In New York, child support requires that non-custodial parents assume financial responsibility for their children. However, the courts have discretion when it comes to deciding how much child support is appropriate.

If you believe that you are entitled to receive child support, or if you think you may be required to provide such support, contact our Poughkeepsie child support lawyers at Klein Law, P.C..

Child Support Guidelines

Even with parents who have a 50/50 custodial arrangement, the courts may require one parent to pay child support to the other. The state has specific guidelines which they use to determine how much child support you or the other parent of your child will be required to pay.

The child support guidelines may consider the following factors:

• The income and earning ability of each parent
• The job and education level of each parent
• The specific health care and educational needs of the child
• The existing or proposed child custody agreement

Poughkeepsie Child Support FAQ

What is child support and how is it calculated?

Child support is a financial obligation paid by a non-custodial parent to support their child's needs, including housing, food, and education. It is calculated based on both parents' income, the number of children, and other factors like healthcare and childcare expenses. New York State uses specific guidelines to ensure fair support amounts.

What should I do if child support payments are missed?

If child support payments are missed, it's important to document the missed payments and contact your lawyer. Legal actions can be taken to enforce the order, which may include wage garnishment or other enforcement measures.

How is child support calculated in NY?

Non-custodial parents are required to provide financial support to their children to ensure that the children’s basic needs are met. This is true both in divorce cases and in cases where the parents were never married.

When a child lives mainly with one parent, that parent is entitled to receive payments for expenses connected with raising the child. The non-custodial parent may also pay for the child’s health insurance or provide assistance with daycare expenses.

How  can I modify or enforce my child support order in Poughkeepsie?

As Poughkeepsie child support lawyers, we have represented many parents and know circumstances can change over time after a divorce order or child support order is put in effect. 

These changes may affect the non-custodial parent’s ability to pay child support. This may include major life changes such as a job loss, significant illness, or a major relationship change.

You may also run into a situation where a parent fails to pay the child support that the court deems reasonable and proper. There is a program in place known as the Child Support Enforcement Program which provides options to parents like yourself if you are not receiving the amount of child support you are legally entitled to. 

For these matters, it is vital that you take a proactive approach and work with a Poughkeepsie child support lawyer to request a modification.

What role does a lawyer play in child support cases?

A lawyer provides essential guidance and representation throughout the child support process. They help you understand your rights, navigate legal procedures, and ensure that the child support arrangement serves the best interests of your child. They can also assist in enforcement or modification of existing orders.

How long do child support obligations last in New York?

Child support obligations generally last until the child turns 21 years old, unless otherwise ordered by the court due to factors like emancipation or special needs.

Can child support be enforced if the other parent lives in a different state?

Yes, child support can be enforced across state lines thanks to the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA). A Poughkeepsie child support lawyer can assist in navigating these inter-state legal complexities.

Call our Poughkeepsie child support lawyers today at (845) 203-2287 if you are ready to set up a free case consultation to discuss your situation.