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Child Support
Child support is an award determined by the courts in a marriage dissolution, legal separation or annulment that provides for the care, support and education of the children of the separating or divorcing couple.
Similar to child custody, child support is an emotional minefield. Support, or the withholding of support, can be used as a weapon between parents which does not serve in the child's best interest. Often, it is up the lawyers and the courts to find an equitable result so that both parties feel the support awarded is fair.
Child support in Minnesota is determined by multiplying the obligor's net income by a percentage that is determined by the state based on number of children and pay scale, to arrive at a specific dollar amount in child support.
Modification of support is a common proceeding that occurs after the court has determined custody, where one party's financial circumstances have changed substantially. This is another area where subtle distinctions can enormously affect the lives of the parties. Formal discovery – the gathering of documents and evidence – is the best way to make sure any modification is necessary and fair.
In May 2005, Minnesota passed new laws that will dramatically change the state's current child support system. These changes will go into effect January 1, 2007. Among other things, under the new law, child support guidelines will be based upon both parents' gross income and parenting time, regardless of who has legal custody.
Contact us to learn more and to find out how we can help you with your child support legal needs.
Read the Minnesota Statute on child support:
Learn more about child support:
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