Child Support Myths

If child support is part of your divorce or family law case, you know that it is a complex financial ruling. It’s also often one of the most difficult parts of a case because emotions run high about child support. Because this is an emotional topic, there is a lot of misinformation about it. Learn the truth about these common child support myths.

• Child support is supposed to cover all the costs of raising a child. Child support is one parent’s contribution. Both parents are expected to contribute to the financial costs of raising a child. Neither one alone is responsible for all expenses.
• We can alter the child support ourselves. You and your ex can agree to anything, but nothing you do is enforceable unless it is in the form of a court order. You can agree to increase child support by $50 a week, but unless a court issues that in an order, you can never enforce it. And if you agree to reduce child support and you pay less, you can be held in violation of the order unless it is officially modified.
• A parent with no visitation does not have to pay child support. In fact, spending time with your child can reduce the amount you owe, since the parenting plan is taken into consideration in calculating child support. A parent who has no contact with his or her child is still liable for child support.
• Child support has to be used directly for the child’s expenses. Child support can be used by the receiving parent in any way he or she sees fit and there is no requirement that is be used specifically for the child alone.

There are many complex issues in divorce and family law cases. The Sampair Group is your choice in the Glendale, Paradise Valley, Scottsdale andPhoenix areas of Arizona when you need a firm that will listen carefully and advise wisely. Make an appointment for a consultation with one of our attorneys today.