Grand Rapids Child Support Lawyer

Providing Quality Representation at a Fair Price

Child support matters are one of the most complex family law and divorce issues as they involve your children and your finances. Whether you are seeking child support from the other parent of your child or you want to ensure you are not asked to pay more than required, our firm can help. With more than a decade of experience, our Grand Rapids child support attorney at Brookhills Legal Services can assist you with virtually any type of child support matter.

Learn more about how our Grand Rapids child support attorney by contacting us online or calling (616) 202-3988 today!

How Child Support Is Decided & Calculated

Some people wrongly assume that everyone qualifies for child support payments, no matter the situation. However, family courts actually have a specific way of calculating who pays child support, how much they will pay, and for how long. In most cases, child support is given until the child turns 21, but this can vary depending on the circumstances. We can meet with you to ensure you understand what to expect out of the child support calculation process.

It's crucial to recognize that child support guidelines can vary significantly by jurisdiction. In Grand Rapids, the family court considers a variety of factors unique to Michigan laws. Understanding these specific guidelines and their implications on your financial situation can make a significant difference in the outcome. We educate our clients thoroughly about the legal frameworks governing child support, assisting them in navigating through complex legal requirements while considering the long-term financial needs of their children.

A few of the factors which determine how much child support will be paid include:

• The child's financial needs
• The child's educational and health care needs
• If the child has any special needs
• The income and earning capacity of each parent
• The education level and health of each parent

Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support

What Should I Do If My Financial Situation Changes?

If you experience a significant change in your financial situation, such as a job loss or unexpected expenses, it is important to address this immediately. Contacting a child support attorney at Brookhills Legal Services can provide guidance on submitting a modification request to the court. The process involves proving the change in circumstances, which may require detailed documentation and a comprehensive explanation to justify the request. Acting swiftly can help prevent potential legal consequences for non-compliance with current support terms.

How Can An Agreement Be Enforced?

In Grand Rapids, enforcing child support agreements involves various legal mechanisms. This can include income withholding orders, where payments are directly deducted from the payer's wages, or finding the payer in contempt of court, which could lead to fines or jail time. Courts are proactive in ensuring compliance and have stringent measures in place to address non-payment promptly. At Brookhills Legal Services, we assist clients in understanding the enforcement process, helping them receive the support they are entitled to.

What If The Other Parent Refuses To Pay Child Support?

When a parent refuses to pay child support in Michigan, there are several legal steps that the receiving parent can take. Contacting a knowledgeable attorney at Brookhills Legal Services can set the enforcement process in motion. This can include filing a motion with the court or working with state agencies to garnish wages, intercept tax refunds, or suspend licenses of the non-compliant parent. Approaching this delicately yet decisively ensures that the necessary forces are in place to recover owed payments.

How Are Visitation Rights Connected To Child Support Payments?

A common misconception is that visitation and child support are directly linked. Legally, child support is independent of visitation rights, and a parent must continue payments regardless of visitation disagreements. However, tensions often arise when these issues intersect. At Brookhills Legal Services, we help resolve such disputes by offering mediation services and practical solutions that consider the child's best interests, ultimately aiding in maintaining parental involvement without withholding financial support.

Discuss Your Options with an Experienced Attorney

Our firm understands the importance of securing child support to make sure your child is taken care of. We strive to find the most beneficial and least complicated solution for your children. Fortunately, most family court judges also work to do the same and keep your child's best interests in mind. In addition to handling child support in divorce cases, we also handle child support matters pertaining to unmarried parents.

Call us now at (616) 202-3988 if you are interested in scheduling a free consultation.