Best Child Support Lawyers in Whittier

About Child Support Law in Whittier, United States

Child support is a legal obligation requiring one parent to provide financial support for their child or children following a separation or divorce. In Whittier, United States, which falls under California state law, child support ensures that the child's financial needs are met even if parents are not living together. The courts determine support based on state guidelines, considering both parents' incomes, the amount of time each parent spends with the child, and other relevant factors such as healthcare and childcare costs.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Navigating child support matters can be emotionally and legally complex. People often seek legal help for child support in situations such as:

• Establishing a new child support order after a breakup or divorce
• Enforcing an existing child support order if the other parent is not paying
• Modifying an existing order due to changes in income or parenting time
• Addressing paternity concerns or disputing parentage
• Understanding complex cases involving multiple children or complicated finances
• Defending against claims of unpaid child support

Local Laws Overview

In Whittier, as part of Los Angeles County, child support cases are typically handled in accordance with California Family Code. Key aspects of the law include:

• Use of statewide child support guidelines to calculate payments
• Calculation based on parents' incomes, deductions, and the amount of time each parent spends with the child
• Mandatory disclosure of both parents' financial information
• Court orders for health insurance coverage when available
• Provisions for both temporary and permanent child support orders
• Options for wage garnishment if payments are missed
• Ability to request modification if circumstances significantly change

Frequently Asked Questions

What is child support?

Child support is a court-ordered payment made by one parent to another to help cover their child's living expenses. Payments help pay for necessities such as food, clothing, housing, education, and healthcare.

How is the amount of child support determined in Whittier?

The amount is calculated using California's statewide guideline formula. The court looks at both parents' incomes, the percentage of time each parent spends with the child, tax deductions, and certain costs like daycare and health insurance.

Can a child support order be changed?

Yes, if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income, loss of employment, or a change in custody or visitation arrangements, you may request a modification of the support order through the court.

What happens if my ex does not pay child support?

There are enforcement tools available, such as wage garnishment, liens, intercepting tax refunds, and even driver's license suspension. You may ask the court or local child support agency for help enforcing the order.

Do I need to be divorced to get child support?

No, you do not need to be divorced. Unmarried parents can also ask the court to establish child support orders as part of a paternity or custody case.

How do I start a child support case in Whittier?

You can start a case by filing the appropriate legal forms with the Los Angeles County Superior Court or by contacting the local child support agency for assistance.

How long does child support last?

Child support typically continues until the child turns 18, or 19 if still in high school full time, or as otherwise ordered by the court.

What if my child has special needs?

The court may order support to continue beyond the age of majority if the child has special needs or disabilities that require continued financial support.

Do I have to pay child support if I am unemployed?

Yes, a parent is still responsible for child support even if unemployed. The court may impute income based on earning capacity, or adjust the order to reflect the parent’s current financial situation.

Can I represent myself in a child support case?

Yes, you have the right to represent yourself, but child support laws can be complex. Many people find it helpful to hire a lawyer or seek assistance from legal aid organizations or self-help centers at the courthouse.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or help with child support in Whittier, consider reaching out to the following organizations and agencies:

• Los Angeles County Child Support Services Department
• California Department of Child Support Services
• Los Angeles County Superior Court Family Law Division
• Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County
• Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
• Local courthouse self-help centers

Next Steps

If you are seeking legal assistance with a child support issue in Whittier:

• Gather relevant documents such as current court orders, pay stubs, tax returns, and any communications about support
• Identify your legal goals, such as starting a new case, enforcing payment, or modifying an order
• Contact the Los Angeles County child support agency or visit a family law self-help center for assistance
• Consider consulting with a family law attorney experienced in child support matters
• If you cannot afford a lawyer, seek help from a local legal aid organization or courthouse self-help center