Residents of Phoenix, Arizona, who have divorced may be aware that when it comes to child support, the child support guidelines favor the shared support model. The total amount is decided after approximating how much would have been spent on the children if they had been living with both parents. Each parent is obligated to contribute to the total amount. These guidelines apply to natural and adopted children. In some cases, only the custodial parent may have to pay child support.
In Arizona, it is the legal responsibility of a parent to pay child support. However, in the case of stepchildren, paying the child support is voluntary. Generally, the child support is paid until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes first.
The child support amount is prioritized over any other financial obligations. In the event that a parent fails to pay the agreed-upon child support or fails to pay, necessary action may be taken against that parent. The supporting parent may be ordered to spend six months in jail. If there is a genuine problem, such as unemployment or disability, either parent has the right to seek a modification of the child support order.
While determining the total amount of child support, the court may add expenses related to child care, education, needs for special children and older child adjustment to the medical expenses, which is a compulsory component. The total child support obligation is divided on the basis of that adjusted gross income of the parents. That is, in simple terms, a parent who earns more should have a greater share.
Our law firm specializes in cases related to child support. To learn more about cases related to child support, the reader may wish to refer to an earlier post. With our experience in handling such cases, we will try to get the best possible outcome for our clients. Our attorneys can offer professional help and the person can contact us for a free initial consultation.
