Whether you are going through a divorce, separation or a child custody dispute in Tennessee, child support is an important issue that must be addressed. Child support is an ongoing payment made by one parent to the other to help cover the costs of raising a child. However, calculating child support can be a complex process, and it can be difficult to understand your options if you are struggling to make or receive payments. In this blog post, we will answer some common questions about child support and provide guidance for navigating related legal issues in Tennessee.
How Is Child Support Calculated?
In Tennessee, child support is typically calculated using an income shares model. This model takes into account both parents' incomes, the number of children involved, and other relevant factors such as child care expenses and healthcare costs. The calculation is based on a state-established child support schedule that sets the amount of support owed based on the parents' combined income and the number of children involved. However, other factors such as the parenting schedule can also impact child support amounts.
What Happens If I Am Unable To Pay Child Support?
If you are unable to make your child support payments, it is important to act as soon as possible. Simply stopping payments can lead to serious legal consequences such as wage garnishment, license suspension, and even jail time. In some cases, you may be able to petition the court for a modification of your child support order if your financial situation has changed. Alternatively, you may be able to negotiate a payment plan with the other parent or seek assistance from government agencies.
What Are My Options If My Ex Refuses To Pay Child Support?
If your ex is not paying court-ordered child support, you can take legal action to enforce the order. The court can impose penalties such as wage garnishment, tax refund interception, and even contempt of court charges. In extreme cases, your ex may even face jail time. If you are experiencing ongoing issues with child support payments, it may be helpful to seek the assistance of an experienced family law attorney who can advocate for your rights and help you navigate the legal system.
Do Child Support Payments Stop Once The Child Is 18?
In Tennessee, child support payments typically terminate once the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. However, there may be exceptions such as if the child has a disability that prevents them from being self-supporting. Additionally, in cases where child support payments are made through income withholding, payments may continue for a limited period beyond the termination date to allow for processing time.
Navigating child support issues can be challenging, but it is important to understand your rights and options. Whether you are seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, having the guidance of an experienced family law attorney can make all the difference. At Durak Law Firm, we are committed to helping our clients achieve favorable outcomes in their family law matters. If you reside in Tennessee and need assistance with a child support issue, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
