Best Child Support Lawyers in South Haven

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Kotz Sangster Wysocki P.C.

Kotz Sangster Wysocki P.C.

South Haven, United States

Founded in 1978
60 people in their team
Kotz Sangster Wysocki P.C. is a business law firm concentrating on the representation of middle market companies. Our clients are numerous and...
English

About Child Support Law in South Haven, United States

Child Support Law in South Haven, like anywhere in the US, aims to ensure that both parents contribute to the financial needs of a child, even when they don't live together. The financial support pays for expenses like food, clothing, and medical care. The laws are regulated at the state level. Within Michigan, child support is determined using the Michigan Child Support Formula that considers various factors like the income of parents, number of children, and the time a child spends with each parent.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While strictly legal representation may not be required to apply for child support, hiring a lawyer can be extremely beneficial under certain conditions. This includes complex situations like divorce proceedings, negotiations for a higher or lower amount, if the other party is also hiring a lawyer or if you're facing difficulties in receiving the decided amount. Additionally, a lawyer can help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and the legal implications of your decisions.

Local Laws Overview

The amount of child support to be paid is determined by the Michigan Child Support Formula. It factors in each parent's income, the number of children, how much time each parent spends with the child, and expenses related to the child. Another key point to remember is that child support payments continue until the child turns 18, or 19 1/2 if the child is still in high school and living full-time with a parent.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is child support calculated in South Haven?

Child support is calculated using the Michigan Child Support Formula that considers factors such as each parent's income, the number of kids, and the amount of time children spend with each parent.

2. How long does child support last?

The support generally must be paid until the child turns 18. However, if a child is still in high school and living full-time with a parent, child support needs to continue until the child turns 19 1/2.

3. Can child support be modified?

Yes. If there have been significant changes to a parent's income or to the child's needs, you can request a child support modification through the court.

4. What happens if child support is not paid?

The parent obligated to pay can face a variety of penalties like license suspensions, income garnishment, property liens, and even jail time.

5. Do I need a lawyer to receive child support?

While not mandatory, having a lawyer can provide benefits especially if you have to negotiate payment amounts, represent yourself in court, or enforce a child support order.

Additional Resources

For further information, one can consult the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, specifically their Office of Child Support. They provide various services related to child support, which includes enforcement of payments and adjusting existing orders.

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance, the first step should be to find a lawyer specializing in family law or child support. Before hiring a lawyer, ensure that you have a clear understanding of their fees and services.

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.