Best Child Support Lawyers in Philadelphia

About Child Support Law in Philadelphia, United States:

Child support in Philadelphia, United States, is a legal obligation for parents to financially support their children. The purpose of child support is to ensure that children receive adequate financial support from both parents, even if they are not living together.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

You may need a lawyer for child support issues if you are facing challenges in obtaining child support, enforcing a child support order, modifying a child support agreement, or navigating complex legal processes related to child support.

Local Laws Overview:

In Philadelphia, child support laws are governed by state laws, specifically the Pennsylvania Child Support Guidelines. These guidelines consider factors such as each parent's income, childcare expenses, healthcare costs, and the child's specific needs to calculate child support payments. In some cases, deviations from the guidelines may be allowed based on specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How is child support calculated in Philadelphia?

In Philadelphia, child support is calculated based on the Pennsylvania Child Support Guidelines, which consider factors such as each parent's income, childcare expenses, healthcare costs, and the child's specific needs.

2. Can child support be modified in Philadelphia?

Child support orders can be modified in Philadelphia, but there must be a significant change in circumstances to warrant a modification. Common reasons for modification include changes in income, employment status, or the child's needs.

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

If a parent fails to pay child support in Philadelphia, they may face legal consequences such as wage garnishment, property liens, suspension of driver's license, or even imprisonment.

4. Can child support be enforced across state lines?

Yes, child support can be enforced across state lines through the Uniform Interstate Family Support Act (UIFSA), which allows for the enforcement of child support orders in different states.

5. Can parents agree on child support without involving the court?

Parents can agree on child support without involving the court, but it is recommended to formalize the agreement in writing to prevent misunderstandings or disputes in the future.

6. Can child support payments be tax-deductible in Philadelphia?

Child support payments are not tax-deductible for the paying parent or taxable income for the receiving parent in Philadelphia.

7. How long does child support last in Philadelphia?

Child support typically lasts until the child reaches the age of majority, which is 18 in Philadelphia. However, child support may continue beyond that age if the child has special needs or is still in school.

8. What if the child's needs change after the child support order is issued?

If a child's needs change after the child support order is issued, either parent can request a modification of the child support order to reflect the new circumstances.

9. Can child support orders be enforced for non-custodial parents living outside of Philadelphia?

Yes, child support orders can be enforced for non-custodial parents living outside of Philadelphia through the UIFSA, which allows for the enforcement of child support orders across state lines.

10. Can a lawyer help me with child support issues in Philadelphia?

Yes, a lawyer can help you navigate child support issues in Philadelphia, whether you need assistance with establishing child support, modifying an existing order, enforcing child support payments, or addressing any other related legal matters.

Additional Resources:

For additional information or assistance with child support in Philadelphia, you may contact the Philadelphia Department of Human Services, the Pennsylvania Child Support Program, or consult with family law attorneys specializing in child support cases.

Next Steps:

If you require legal assistance with child support in Philadelphia, consider consulting with a knowledgeable family law attorney who can provide guidance and representation tailored to your specific circumstances. Be prepared to provide relevant documents, such as income statements, childcare expenses, and any existing child support orders, to help facilitate the legal process.