San Francisco Child Support Attorney 

At Nachlis | Cohade | Lopez-Whitaker, LLP, our San Francisco child support attorney understand how the variables in calculations can affect support orders. Whether you need assistance seeking, contesting, enforcing, or modifying a support order, we can help. 

Understanding Child Support and the Law

Parents owe financial support to their children, and this is arranged under California child support guidelines. Generally, the parent who spends less time with the child pays this support to the other parent to help finance the cost of raising the child.

These guidelines consider factors such as:

• The number of children being supported
• Parental incomes
• Any other financial support from previous relationships that must be paid
• Health insurance costs
• The amount of time each parent spends with the child

A mechanical application of the guidelines will result in a payment amount. However, deviations from the calculated amount may be allowed where needed to increase or decrease support obligations that are considered inappropriate or unfair to a parent or child.

Frequently Asked Questions about Child Support

Can child support amounts be modified after they are set?

Answer: Yes, child support amounts can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. This might include changes in income, employment status, the needs of the child, or changes in custody arrangements. Either parent can request a modification by filing a motion with the court and demonstrating that the change is warranted.

What should I do if my ex-spouse is not paying the court-ordered child support?

Answer: If your ex-spouse is not complying with a court-ordered child support arrangement, you can take legal action to enforce the order. This can include wage garnishment, seizing tax refunds, or even contempt of court proceedings. Our attorneys can help you navigate this process and ensure that your child receives the support they are entitled to.

How does shared custody affect child support payments?

Answer: Shared custody can significantly impact child support payments. The amount of time each parent spends with the child is a key factor in the calculation. Typically, the more time a parent spends with the child, the less they may have to pay in child support. However, the final amount will still consider both parents' incomes and other relevant factors.

What is the process for establishing a child support order?

Answer: To establish a child support order, one parent must file a request with the court. The court will then review financial information from both parents, as well as other relevant factors such as custody arrangements and the needs of the child. After considering this information, the court will issue a child support order detailing the payment amount and schedule. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through this process to ensure that the order accurately reflects your situation and the needs of your child.

How Nachlis | Cohade | Lopez-Whitaker, LLP Can Assist You

Navigating child support laws can be complex and emotionally taxing. At Nachlis | Cohade | Lopez-Whitaker, LLP, our dedicated team of child support attorneys in San Francisco is here to guide you every step of the way. We understand that every family's situation is unique, and we are committed to ensuring that your child support arrangements reflect the best interests of your children and are fair to both parents. Our expertise in handling various child support issues, from initial calculations to modifications and enforcement, ensures that you receive the support you need.

Don't let the intricacies of child support calculations overwhelm you. Let our experienced attorneys advocate for your rights and help you achieve a fair and just outcome. Contact Nachlis | Cohade | Lopez-Whitaker, LLP today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards resolving your child support matters with confidence and clarity.