Comprehensive Child Support Guidance in New Bedford
Experienced Child Support Attorneys Serving New Bedford, MA
In Massachusetts, both parents, regardless of marital status, must provide financially for their children. Child support is the court-established financial amount one parent must pay the other to provide support for their children. Based on child support guidelines, with an emphasis on the child’s best interests, the courts in Massachusetts determine child support based on what is known as the income shares model.
At New Bedford Divorce Lawyer, we understand how difficult an unfair child support order can become for our clients. Whether you need to secure child support to meet your child's needs or are facing hardships making your payments due to changed circumstances, we aim to resolve your support issue and reach the best possible outcome.
What is the Income Shares Model?
Massachusetts adheres to the Income Shares Model for determining child support. This model is based on the concept that the child should receive the same proportion of parental income that they would have received if the parents had stayed together in an intact household. For parents in an intact household, child support is determined by pooling each parent’s income together and using the figure to calculate a fair child support amount.
Contact us online or call us at 508-979-1400 to schedule your initial consultation with a child support lawyer in New Bedford today.
How Can I Modify a Child Support Order in Massachusetts?
To modify an existing child support order in Massachusetts, you must demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances.
Some examples of this might include:
An increase or decrease in income
A change in the child’s needs (for example, if the child becomes disabled)
To pursue a child support modification, you should file a Supplemental Petition for Modification of Child Support. It is advisable to consult with an experienced attorney to ensure your child support order can be modified and to understand the best strategy for your case.
Enforcing Child Support Payments in Massachusetts
If the other parent refuses to pay child support, you can file a Complaint for Contempt to enforce the order. To demonstrate to the judge that the other parent is indeed in contempt, you will need to show the following:
You have a valid child support order approved and signed by a judge.
The other parent has not adhered to the child support order.
The other parent has the ability to pay the child support.
Consulting with a reputable attorney who has extensive knowledge of child support issues is crucial. Our seasoned New Bedford child support lawyers have navigated the complexities of child support cases for over three decades, resolving numerous issues associated with child support enforcement.
Understanding Child Support Deviations in Massachusetts
The court exercises discretion when determining child support, which is why some cases may call for what is known as a child support deviation. This means sometimes the court awards a higher amount of child support to a parent in need. Deviations can vary according to the situation, however, some examples that may warrant a child support deviation include:
High healthcare costs
Special education costs
Medical expenses associated with caring for a child with a disability
Expensive extracurricular costs
How Do I Check My Child Support Case?
In Massachusetts, you can view previous, outstanding, or existing child support payments by checking the state’s Department of Revenue website, connecting with Child Support Services, or by calling their customer service line.
Schedule a Consultation with Our New Bedford Child Support Attorneys
Don't leave your financial future to chance. Whether you are establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support order, we are committed to your success. Contact New Bedford Divorce Lawyer today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced child support attorneys in New Bedford.