Important Things to Know About Child Support in Pennsylvania
It is no secret that raising kids is expensive. Even after parents get divorced or separated in Pennsylvania, they are both expected to continue to financially support their children. Children are expected to receive the same amount of support they would have received if both of their parents were still married and living together. Below, our Carbon County family lawyer explains how child support is calculated in Pennsylvania, and other important things to know.
How is Child Support Calculated in Pennsylvania?
Like in the majority of states in the country, Pennsylvania follows an income share model when calculating child support. Under this model, the income of each parent is considered when determining child support amounts, as well as the amount of children the parents share together. The total amount of child support should provide for every child’s housing, food, transportation, medical expenses, and other miscellaneous items.
There are times when a court will deviate from the general child support guidelines. For example, if collectively a couple earns more than $30,000 per month, the amount of child support is increased. On the other hand, if parents share custody and the paying parent spends more than 40 percent of overnight visits with the child, support obligations can be reduced.
Other Factors Considered When Determining Child Support
A judge may take other factors into consideration when making decisions about child support. These include:
- Other support obligations, such as when supporting children from another relationship
- Unusual fixed obligations or unusual needs
- The child’s age
- Other incomes in the household
- Medical expenses not covered by health insurance
- Any special needs of the child
- The reasonable assets and liabilities of each parent
- The child’s standard of living
- The best interests of the child
What Happens if I Cannot Pay Child Support?
The child support you are obligated to pay at the time of divorce or separation may be reasonable at the time, but your circumstances may change. If your obligation becomes too difficult to manage and you simply stop paying support, you may face serious consequences. You could be held in contempt of court, which may result in jail time, or you may have a professional license or your driver’s license suspended.
If there has been a substantial change of circumstances that prevents you from paying child support, it is important that you request a legal modification from the court. A Carbon County family lawyer can help you through this process and prove that you require a modification. This is the only way to have child support reduced or terminated without facing legal penalties.
Our Family Lawyer in Carbon County Can Help with Child Support Issues
Handling child support issues on your own can be stressful and confusing. At The Law Office of Kim M. Gillen, P.C., our Carbon County family lawyer can help you navigate the process and give you the best chance of obtaining a favorable outcome. Call us today at 484-613-0011 or contact us online to schedule a consultation so we can get started on your case.
Source:
humanservices.state.pa.us/csws/?Preference=Desktop&Owner=Client
