As a family law attorney with years of experience in Northern Kentucky, I have seen firsthand the importance of understanding child support in divorce proceedings. When children are involved, it is crucial for both parents to fulfill their legal obligation of financially supporting their children, even after the marriage has ended. In this article, I will provide expert insights on how child support is calculated in Northern Kentucky and what steps can be taken to modify or enforce child support orders.
What is Child Support?
Child support is a court-ordered payment made by one parent to the other for the financial support of their child. It is intended to cover the child's basic needs, such as food, shelter, clothing, and medical expenses.The amount of child support is determined based on the income of both parents and the needs of the child.
How is Child Support Calculated in Northern Kentucky?
In Northern Kentucky, child support is calculated using the Income Shares Model. This model takes into account the income of both parents and the number of children they have together. The court also considers other factors such as the cost of health insurance, daycare expenses, and any special needs of the child. The first step in calculating child support is determining each parent's gross income. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, and any other sources of income.The court may also consider other sources of income, such as rental properties or investments. Once the gross income is determined, certain deductions are made to arrive at the net income. These deductions include taxes, social security payments, and any other mandatory deductions. The net income of both parents is then added together to determine the combined adjusted gross income. The next step is to determine each parent's percentage share of the combined adjusted gross income. This percentage is based on each parent's individual income compared to the total combined income.
For example, if one parent earns 60% of the combined income, they will be responsible for 60% of the child support amount. The final step is to use the child support guidelines to determine the basic child support obligation. This is a set amount based on the number of children and the combined adjusted gross income. The court may also consider other factors, such as the child's medical needs or educational expenses, to deviate from the guidelines.
Can Child Support be Modified?
Child support orders are not set in stone and can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. This could include a change in income, job loss, or a change in the child's needs.Either parent can request a modification of child support, and it is up to the court to decide if it is necessary. It is essential to note that child support modifications are not retroactive. This means that any changes made will only apply from the date of filing and not before. It is crucial for both parents to keep accurate records of any changes in income or expenses to ensure a fair modification.
Enforcement of Child Support Orders
Unfortunately, not all parents comply with their child support obligations. In Northern Kentucky, there are various enforcement measures in place to ensure that child support orders are followed.These include wage garnishment, tax refund intercepts, and suspension of driver's licenses or professional licenses. If a parent fails to pay child support, they may also face legal consequences such as fines or even jail time. It is crucial for both parents to take their child support obligations seriously and fulfill them to the best of their abilities.
