Child Support Attorney in Denham Springs, Louisiana

Child support is an essential issue that should be resolved before a divorce or legal separation can be finalized. According to the Custodial Mothers and Fathers and Their Child Support report by the U.S. Census Bureau in 2017, more than half of all custodial parents in the United States have either a legal or informal agreement for child support. In Louisiana, both parents are required to support their child's financial, medical, and emotional needs. Establishing quality child support agreements is critical to maintaining a child's living standard and making sure that they are adequately cared for.

If you're trying to establish a child support agreement or change an existing child support order, reach out to a knowledgeable Louisiana divorce attorney. At the Law Office of Ivy L. Graham, we are committed to providing experienced and comprehensive guidance to clients in complex family law matters, including establishing and modifying child support. As your dedicated counsel, we can review your unique situation, educate you on your available options, and fight compassionately to protect your legal rights and your family's future. We are proud to serve individuals and families throughout Denham Springs, Louisiana, and the surrounding areas of Livingston, Colyell, Holden, Springfield, Walker, Waston, and Albany.

Understanding Child Support in Louisiana

Under Louisiana laws, both parents, whether divorced or separated, will remain responsible for the expenses involved in raising their child. In most cases, the noncustodial parent will be required to pay child support to the custodial parent. The child support payment will cover everyday living expenses for the children. In some cases, expenses for health insurance, school tuition, sports, camp, and music or dance lessons for the child are included in the child support payment. However, it is more common for parents to pay these expenses in addition to the child support payment.

Factors Considered in Determining Amount

When determining child support amounts, the court may consider the following factors:

• The number of children involved

• Both parent's income

• The existing custodial arrangement

Imputed Income

In the event that a parent is underemployed, voluntarily unemployed, or fails to provide their financial history, a court may impute the parent’s income. Imputed income may be calculated using the following:

• The parent's occupational qualifications

• The parent's employment potential with respect to recent work history

• The prevailing earnings levels in the society

Throughout income imputation, an income will be assigned to the parent based on what he or she should be making.

Modifying an Existing Arrangement

Child support arrangements are not set in stone. You can always seek modification if necessary. In Louisiana, a child support order may be modified if there has been a material change in circumstances that results in a 25% decrease or increase in the child support amount you are currently paying or receiving.

Some common reasons that may warrant the need to request a child support modification include:

• Involuntary loss of job

• A permanent disability

• A substantial change in income

• Getting a much higher paying job

• Changes in parenting time or visitation schedule

• An increase in the child's needs

• An increase or decrease in the cost of medical care or health insurance

• Having a new child

Termination of Child Support

In Louisiana, the obligation to pay child support automatically terminates when the child turns 18. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. You are still required to continue paying support to your 18-year-old child if:

• They are a "full-time" student in a "secondary school", i.e. high school

• They suffer from a "developmental disability"

• They become mentally or physically disabled before age 18

Work With a Knowledgeable
Family Law Attorney

Establishing a child support agreement in Louisiana can involve a lot of complex procedures. If you are a parent trying to establish a child support arrangement or if you believe circumstances have changed since the existing support decree was made and you're seeking modifications, consulting with a knowledgeable family law attorney is important for proper guidance.

At the Law Office of Ivy L. Graham, we have the experience and resources to assist clients in the legal matters of divorce and child support. Our attorneys will enlighten you on the details involved in the child support process, including how to calculate, establish, modify, review, or terminate a child support order. Our team will work meticulously with both parents to resolve child support issues peacefully and productively.