Best Child Support Lawyers in Birmingham

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The Harris Firm LLC

The Harris Firm LLC

Birmingham, United States

Founded in 2007
5 people in their team
The Harris Firm was founded by Attorney Steven A. Harris as a statewide law firm that helps individuals throughout Alabama mainly in the areas of...
English

About Child Support Law in Birmingham, United States

Child Support law in Birmingham, United States is primarily governed by the state laws of Alabama. It outlines the responsibility of parents to provide financial support for their minor children. The law considers factors such as income of both parents, childcare costs, and health insurance expenses to determine the appropriate amount of child support. The Alabama Rule 32 guidelines are generally used to calculate these payments.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Child support cases can be complex, particularly if they also involve other family law issues such as custody and visitation. Legal help may be required in situations such as establishing paternity, calculating child support, enforcing child support orders, or modifying existing child support orders due to changed financial circumstances. A lawyer can guide you through these complexities and help represent your interests in court.

Local Laws Overview

As per Birmingham's child support laws, both parents are obligated to provide support according to their ability. The non-custodial parent usually pays support to the custodial parent to cover child's living and educational expenses. The support continues until the child turns 19, the age of majority in Alabama, or longer in certain situations like if the child has a disability. Child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in either parent's financial circumstances or the child's needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is child support calculated in Birmingham?

Child support in Birmingham, Alabama, is calculated based on the combined adjusted gross income of both parents, using Alabama's Rule 32 guidelines.

2. Can child support orders be modified?

Yes, child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in the financial situation of the parents or the needs of the child.

3. What happens if the non-custodial parent fails to pay?

If the non-custodial parent fails to pay child support, legal actions such as wage garnishment, tax refund interception, or penalty may be taken. It's recommended to seek legal advice in such cases.

4. How is paternity established in Birmingham?

Paternity can be established in Birmingham either by genetic(AKA DNA) testing or by the parents signing a voluntary acknowledgement of paternity.

5. Can child support payments be used for things other than child's day to day expenses?

Yes, child support payments can also be used for other expenses related to the child, such as medical care and educational costs.

Additional Resources

You may wish to use resources such as the Alabama Department of Human Resources, which has a detailed section on child support enforcement, or the Jefferson county's family court for child support related matters.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance with child support, you should start by contacting a family lawyer who specializes in child support cases in Birmingham. The lawyer can guide you through the process and help you understand your rights and obligations under local laws.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.