Westport Child Support Lawyer

Experienced Child Support Representation in Connecticut

Child support is an obligation all parents must provide for their minor children. It is mandated by law in every state, including Connecticut. Whether you are contending with this issue due to a divorce, a post-divorce situation, or as an unmarried parent, the legal counsel you will find at Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin can prove invaluable. Our family law firm is a leader in this field for clients throughout Connecticut. Attorney David Griffin was the co-chair of the most recent Connecticut Child Support Guidelines Commission. We are well-known and highly respected for our strong history of effective case representation at the settlement table and in court.

Call Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin today at (203) 428-4476 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our child support attorney in Westport!

Understanding Child Support in Connecticut

One parent generally pays child support to the other based on several factors. The parent with whom the child spends less time is generally obligated to provide this support to the other parent. When the parents share equal parenting time, the parent with the greater income generally must pay child support to the parent with the lower income. These payments are calculated according to the Connecticut Child Support and Arrearage Guidelines. The mathematical formula for calculation can be complicated, so it is important to seek the help of a qualified attorney.

• Factors that are taken into consideration to determine these payments include:
• The gross income of both parents, less valid deductions such as state and federal taxes, medical insurance, and other mandatory contributions or obligations
• The combined net incomes of both parents
• The financial resources the child would have benefitted from if the parents remained together
• The number of children receiving support

These basic factors then contribute to a calculation based on the “income shares model,” which results in proportionate sharing of the obligation to support the children. Other factors may impact adjustments to these basic support payments based on the case's unique circumstances. These are often referred to as “deviations” from the state guidelines.

Understanding Deviations in Child Support Payments

Deviations are payment amounts calculated differently from the standard payments calculated by the guidelines. The courts order these based on such factors as the specific needs of the child, such as medical or educational needs; high visitation expenses for the supporting parent; the ages and health conditions of the parents; the earning capacities of the parents; how assets are divided in the divorce; children from other relationships that the paying parent is required to support; how custody is shared; and severe differences in income between the two parties. Thus, support calculations can be flexible. Having an attorney with experience and knowledge of when and how to use deviations.

Enforcement of Child Support Payments

Enforcing child support payments is crucial for ensuring children receive the financial support they deserve. Legal intervention may be necessary when a parent fails to meet their child support obligations. Our firm can take swift legal action on your behalf, utilizing the court system to enforce payment. Courts can employ various enforcement mechanisms, including:

• Wage Garnishment: A portion of the non-compliant parent’s paycheck is deducted directly to fulfill their support obligations.
• Contempt of Court: The court may hold the non-compliant parent in contempt, which can result in fines or other penalties.
• Property Liens: The court can place liens on the non-compliant parent's property to secure payment.
• Suspension of Licenses: The court may suspend the non-compliant parent’s driver’s or professional licenses until the arrears are paid.

We are dedicated to advocating for your rights and ensuring that child support payments are collected promptly and efficiently.

Modifications to Child Support Orders

Circumstances can change, making it necessary to revisit existing child support orders. If you experience a significant life change—such as job loss, a substantial increase in income, or other compelling reasons—you may be eligible to seek a modification of your court-ordered child support payments. Our attorneys will thoroughly assess your situation to determine the viability of a modification request. Key factors to consider include:

• Job Loss: A sudden reduction in income may warrant a decrease in support obligations.
• Increased Income: A significant increase in the paying parent’s income may justify a request for higher payments.
• Changes in Child’s Needs: New medical or educational requirements for the child can necessitate a support adjustment.
• Changes in Custody: Alterations to custody arrangements may impact the support calculation.

We will help you gather the necessary documentation and present a solid case to the court, ensuring that your child's needs are adequately met and that the support order reflects your current circumstances. Whether you are seeking an increase or decrease in payments, our team is here to guide you through the process with expertise and care.

What Age Do You Stop Paying Child Support?

In Connecticut, child support obligations typically continue until the child reaches the age of 18. However, payments may extend beyond this age under certain circumstances. If the child is still in high school at age 18, support can continue until they graduate or turn 19, whichever comes first.

Additionally, if a child has special needs or is disabled, support may be required indefinitely, depending on the individual circumstances and any court orders in place. Parents need to understand their obligations and any potential changes in circumstances that may affect their child support payments. Consulting with an attorney can clarify when support obligations may end and how to proceed if a modification or enforcement action is necessary.

Contact Our Westport Child Support Attorney Today

At Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin, we negotiate for settlements and argue for judgments that reflect a fair allocation of financial support in child support matters. We also do not hesitate to seek aggressive enforcement if a parent fails to abide by the obligations imposed by the court. If you need legal guidance for any child support issue, our team is here to serve you with strong advocacy, knowledge, and experience.

Contact Rutkin, Oldham & Griffin today to schedule a meeting with our child support lawyer in Westport!