Best Child Support Lawyers in Buffalo

About Child Support Law in Buffalo, United States:

Child support in Buffalo, United States, is a legal obligation that parents have to financially support their children, typically following a divorce or separation. The purpose of child support is to ensure that children receive the financial assistance they need for necessities such as food, shelter, clothing, and education.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

You may need a lawyer for child support matters in Buffalo if you are facing issues such as determining the appropriate amount of child support, modifying an existing child support order, enforcing unpaid child support payments, or navigating complex legal procedures.

Local Laws Overview:

In Buffalo, child support guidelines are based on the income shares model, which considers both parents' incomes to determine the amount of child support. The court may also consider factors such as the child's needs, parents' financial resources, and the child's standard of living before the divorce or separation when calculating child support.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How is child support calculated in Buffalo, United States?

Child support in Buffalo is calculated based on the combined income of both parents, the number of children involved, and other factors such as child care expenses and health insurance costs.

2. Can child support orders be modified in Buffalo?

Child support orders in Buffalo can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a change in income or the child's needs.

3. What happens if a parent fails to pay child support in Buffalo?

If a parent fails to pay child support in Buffalo, they may face legal consequences such as wage garnishment, suspension of driver's license, or contempt of court charges.

4. How long does a parent have to pay child support in Buffalo?

In Buffalo, child support typically continues until the child reaches the age of 21 or graduates from high school, whichever comes first.

5. Can child support be enforced across state lines in Buffalo?

Child support orders in Buffalo can be enforced across state lines through the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA).

6. Can child support be waived in Buffalo?

Child support cannot be waived in Buffalo as it is considered the right of the child to receive financial support from both parents.

7. How can I request a child support modification in Buffalo?

You can request a child support modification in Buffalo by filing a petition with the family court and providing evidence of the changed circumstances that warrant a modification.

8. Are paternity tests required for child support cases in Buffalo?

If paternity is not established, a paternity test may be required in child support cases in Buffalo to determine the biological father of the child.

9. How can I enforce a child support order in Buffalo?

You can enforce a child support order in Buffalo by filing a petition with the court, seeking enforcement through wage garnishment, or requesting the suspension of the non-paying parent's driver's license.

10. Can grandparents request child support in Buffalo?

In certain circumstances, grandparents may be able to request child support in Buffalo if they have legal custody or guardianship of the child.

Additional Resources:

For additional information and resources on child support in Buffalo, you can contact the New York State Child Support Helpline at 1-888-208-4485 or visit the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website.

Next Steps:

If you require legal assistance with child support matters in Buffalo, it is recommended to consult with a family law attorney who specializes in child support cases. You can schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation and explore your legal options for resolving child support issues.