Child Support

  • In A Divorce – What Does the Best Interest of a Child Mean?

    Hours Categories Child Custody, Child Support, Divorce

    In Missouri custody cases, the court decides parenting arrangements based on what serves the child’s overall well-being. Judges look at factors such as each parent’s involvement, the child’s relationships, school stability, mental and physical health, and each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent. Understanding the “Best Interest” Standard When you are dealing with custody issues in Missouri, the court is required to determine custody according to the child’s best interest. While the law gives several factors for courts to consider, it does not provide one exact definition of what “best interest” means. Missouri law includes a rebuttable presumption that equal or approximately equal parenting time is in a child’s best interest. In other words, the court starts with the assumption…

  • What Happens if You Fall Behind on Child Support Payments?

    Hours Categories Child Custody, Child Support

    If you fall behind on child support payments, you can face serious enforcement actions including wage garnishment, suspension of licenses, court contempt, and even jail time. You also have options to request a child support modification if your financial situation has changed, but you must act quickly to protect yourself. Understanding Enforcement Actions When you don’t keep up with child support, what happens next depends on whether a government enforcement agency is already handling your case. If the Division of Child Support Enforcement (DCSE) is already involved, they will take action. They can set up a wage withholding from your paycheck if one isn’t already in place. They can also pursue actions like garnishing your bank accounts or seizing assets. On top of that, they…

  • How Long Does It Take To Modify Child Support?

    Hours Categories Child Support

    The process of modifying child support modification can be frustrating, especially if you are facing an urgent financial change. Understanding the timeline and what factors influence it can help you better prepare and manage expectations. On average, the process of modifying child support can take anywhere from six months to a year and a half. In some cases, it might take even longer. This range is broad because the duration depends on the specifics of each case. Factors That Affect the Timeline for Modification Reasons for Modifying Child Support Several situations might necessitate a modification of child support, including: Conclusion Modifying child support is a complex and lengthy process, but understanding the factors that influence the timeline can help manage your expectations. If you’re considering…

  • Enforcement of Child Support

    Hours Categories Child Support

    Enforcing a child support order can sometimes be a challenging and frustrating process. However, it is crucial to remember that this step is essential for the well-being and stability of your family. By taking action to enforce the order, you are ensuring that your child receives the financial support they need. The enforcement process involves various legal mechanisms to enforce the order and hold the non-compliant party accountable. These mechanisms may include wage garnishment, property liens, or suspension of driver’s licenses. Additionally, the court may impose penalties such as fines or even imprisonment in extreme cases. By enforcing child support orders, the legal system aims to protect the rights and best interests of the child and provide financial stability for their upbringing. Enforcing Child Support…

  • Making Changes: Modifying Child Support

    Hours Categories Child Support

    As life progresses, so do our circumstances, and sometimes these changes require modifications to child support agreements. Whether it’s due to changes in income, adjustments in custody arrangements, or other unforeseen circumstances, modifying child support can become a necessary task. In this blog post, we will provide steps to help you navigate the process. Modifying Child Support The Role of Mediation and Collaboration Contact Family Ally If you have questions or need legal assistance regarding child support, child support modifications or any other family law matter, please contact Jennifer Piper at 314-449-9800 to schedule a consultation. Family Ally is located at 130 S. Bemiston Ave., Suite 608, St. Louis, MO 63105.

  • Navigating Paternity Issues

    Hours Categories Child Custody, Child Support

    Custody issues can be complex, especially when the parents of the child are unmarried. In this blog post, we’ll explore how these issues are addressed, from determining biological paternity to establishing custody arrangements and child support. Paternity issues are now almost as common as divorce cases. Even couples who have been amicable for years may find themselves needing court intervention due to changing circumstances or a desire to formalize agreements for clarity. Resolving Paternity Disputes If the paternity of the child is in dispute, the court can order a DNA test. While the other party may consent or object, the court is likely to grant the request for a DNA test. The DNA testing process involves a mouth swab. All involved parties, including the mother,…

  • St. Louis Child Support Lawyer

    Hours Categories Child Support

    Child support is based on the legal theory that parents who do not live together should both support their children financially. It is a recurring payment made by one parent to the other to help them cover expenses associated with raising a child and to ensure that the children have the same standard of living in each household. When setting an amount for child support, a judge must examine the incomes of both parents, the number of children involved, and the existing custody arrangement, among other factors. You should contact a St. Louis child support lawyer for help with requesting financial assistance from your child’s other parent, modifying an existing court order, or improving your understanding of how it can be enforced. Regardless of your…

  • St. Louis Child Support Enforcement Lawyer

    Hours Categories Child Support

    When you are responsible for the well-being of your child, every penny counts. Expenses can be considerable, and you should not be expected to handle the burden alone. Unfortunately, some parents who are required to pay support do not fulfill their responsibilities. These situations can be emotionally taxing, and direct, heated exchanges with the delinquent parent are usually counterproductive. Under these circumstances, a St. Louis child support enforcement lawyer can provide the necessary assistance. A well-versed family law ally can handle the legalities of your case so you can focus on your child’s day-to-day needs. Child Support Parameters A parent who has physical custody is expected to spend their own money for the benefit of their child. These expenditures may include rent or mortgage, utilities,…

  • St. Louis Child Support Modification Lawyer

    Hours Categories Child Support

    Missouri state law allows modifications to be made to existing child support arrangements in certain circumstances. If you are seeking to modify your current child support arrangement or your former spouse is requesting a modification and you wish to contest it, it is wise to consult with a seasoned family law attorney. A St. Louis child support modification lawyer can review the details of your case and explain what the next steps may entail. Requirements to Alter Child Support Certain requirements must be met in order to modify child support arrangements. While either parent may file for a modification, adjustments can only be made to a child support order if a substantial and continuous change in either party’s or your child’s circumstances has occurred to…

  • 5 Things To Know About Child Support In Missouri

    Hours Categories Child Support

    If you find yourself wondering why you have to pay child support in Missouri, you’re not alone. This article is here to make things clearer for you. We’ll explore why child support exists and how it operates, breaking it down into simple terms. 1. Why Do You Have to Pay Child Support? In a nutshell, you must pay child support because this ensures your child’s lifestyle doesn’t change drastically when going between homes. The aim is to equalize their living conditions at each parent’s house. The purpose of child support is to assist with the child’s basic needs, such as food, housing, utilities, and clothing. 2. How Is Child Support Calculated in Missouri? Child support calculations in Missouri are based on the Form 14.  The…