Child Support Lawyers Pittsburgh

Child support is a key aspect of a Pittsburgh divorce as it directly impacts the well-being and future of the children involved. Child support orders are designed to maintain stability and mitigate any adverse effects on children during a divorce. They aim to safeguard the child's quality of life and protect their best interests, helping to minimize disruptions caused by the dissolution of the parental relationship.

Very Law excels in effectively representing the interests of custodial and non-custodial parents in Pittsburgh divorce cases involving child support. For custodial parents, we work diligently to ensure that child support orders are fair and sufficient to cover your child's needs.

For non-custodial parents, we are committed to ensuring that child support orders are equitable and based on accurate financial information. Our approach is balanced, considering the unique circumstances of each case, and we strive for amicable solutions whenever possible.

Child Support Laws in Pennsylvania

Child support laws in Pennsylvania are primarily governed by the Pennsylvania Child Support Guidelines, which are outlined in Pennsylvania Rule of Civil Procedure 1910.16-1 et seq. These guidelines provide the framework for calculating child support payments. Some key aspects of child support laws in Pennsylvania include:

Income Calculation 

Child support calculations consider the net monthly income of both parents. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, overtime, rental income, and other forms of income, with certain deductions allowed for taxes, spousal support, and mandatory retirement contributions.

Basic Child Support Obligation 

The guidelines establish a basic child support obligation based on the combined income of both parents and the number of children requiring support. This obligation is intended to cover basic expenses such as housing, food, clothing, and healthcare.

Additional Expenses 

In addition to the basic support obligation, parents may be required to share additional expenses such as child care, health insurance premiums, and unreimbursed medical expenses. These expenses are typically allocated in proportion to each parent's income.

Shared and Split Custody 

Child support calculations take into account custody arrangements. If one parent has primary physical custody (over 50% of the time), the other parent pays support to the custodial parent. In shared custody situations (each parent has the child for at least 40% of the time), the basic child support obligation is adjusted based on the number of overnights each parent has with the child.

Modification 

Child support orders can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a significant change in income, changes in custody arrangements, or alterations in the child's needs.

Enforcement 

Failure to pay child support can result in various enforcement measures, including wage garnishment, driver's license suspension, and even contempt of court charges.

Termination 

Child support obligations typically terminate when the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Types of Evidence and Documents

Here are some of the key types of evidence and documents we will gather:

• Income Documentation: We will collect pay stubs, tax returns, W-2 forms, 1099 forms, and other relevant income-related documents from both parents to determine their net monthly income accurately.
• Expense Records: We will review expense records, including receipts and bills, to substantiate expenses related to the child's needs, such as childcare costs, health insurance premiums, and medical expenses.
• Custody Arrangements: We will collect court orders, parenting plans, and calendars to demonstrate the time each parent spends with the child, which can affect child support calculations.
• Proof of Unreimbursed Medical Expenses: Medical bills, receipts, and insurance claims can serve as evidence of unreimbursed medical expenses incurred for the child's benefit.
• Educational Expenses: We will gather documents related to the child's educational costs, such as tuition invoices, school-related fees, and extracurricular activity expenses.
• Proof of Child's Needs: We may collect evidence that supports the child's specific needs, including documentation of any special medical, educational, or other requirements.
• Tax Returns and Financial Statements: Detailed financial information from both parents, including their assets, liabilities, and financial resources, can be vital for assessing their ability to pay child support.
• Employment Records: We may request employment records, including employment contracts, job offers, and any additional sources of income, to establish a parent's earning capacity.
• Bank Statements and Financial Records: We may ask for bank statements, investment account statements, and other financial records to uncover hidden assets or verify financial information.
• Communication Records: Correspondence, emails, or text messages discussing child support arrangements or disputes can be used as evidence in court.
• Witness Testimony: We may interview witnesses, such as teachers, counselors, or healthcare providers to provide insights into the child's needs and expenses.

Collecting and presenting this evidence and documentation is vital to building a strong case that reflects your child's best interests and ensures that child support arrangements are fair and equitable.

Legal Help is Here from Proven and Trusted Child Support Lawyers in Pittsburgh, PA

With legal representation from our dedicated Pittsburgh family attorneys, whether you are the recipient or payer of child support, you can trust us to protect your rights and your child's best interests throughout the divorce process. Call Very Law today at 412-430-0131 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.