Winston-Salem Child Support Attorney

Comprehensive Child Support Services Tailored to Your Needs

Navigating the complexities of child support can be challenging for parents in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential, whether you are the custodial parent expecting financial support or the non-custodial parent fulfilling your obligations. At Collins Family & Elder Law Group, we focus on providing you with the guidance you need to achieve a fair child support arrangement that serves the best interests of your children.

Call Collins Family & Elder Law Group today at (704) 289-3250 or contact us online to meet with our child support attorney in Winston-Salem!

What is Child Support?

Child support is a legal obligation established by the court to ensure that children receive financial support from both parents, regardless of their living arrangements. This financial support helps cover essential needs such as food, housing, healthcare, and education. The primary aim of child support is to maintain a child's standard of living, which they would have enjoyed if their parents were together.

In North Carolina, child support is determined by statutory guidelines, which consider several factors, including each parent's income, the number of children, and any other relevant financial obligations. Child support arrangements can be modified if circumstances significantly change, such as changes in income or the child's needs.

How is Child Support Calculated in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the child support calculation uses a formula that factors in the gross income of both parents. The following steps outline this process:

1. Assessing Gross Income: Both parents' incomes are evaluated, including their wages, bonuses, commissions, rental income, and any other sources of income.
2. Adjustments: Certain deductions may apply, such as taxes, health insurance costs, and mandatory retirement contributions.
3. Child Support Guidelines: North Carolina outlines the introductory amount of support based on the combined gross income and the number of children. The guidelines can be found in the North Carolina Child Support Guidelines worksheet.
4. Additional Factors: Child care, extraordinary medical, and educational expenses may also be considered in determining the final support amount.
5. Final Calculation: After considering all the inputs, the court will establish a child support order that reflects the calculated amount.

Understanding the nuances of child support calculation can be complex. A Winston-Salem child support lawyer can assist you in navigating this process, ensuring all relevant factors are included in your case and advocating for a fair resolution.

What Age Do You Stop Paying Child Support?

In North Carolina, child support obligations typically continue until the child turns 18. However, there are some exceptions:

1. High School Attendance: If the child is still attending high school at age 18, support may continue until they graduate or turn 20, whichever comes first.
2. Emancipation: Child support may end if the child becomes emancipated before age 18. Emancipation can occur through marriage, military service, or by court order.
3. Modification of Support: Parents may seek to modify the child support arrangement if circumstances significantly change, such as the child’s needs, a parent’s income change, or changes in living arrangements.

Remembering your child's support obligations and the circumstances that might affect them is essential. If you have questions or concerns about your situation, consulting a knowledgeable Winston-Salem child support lawyer can help clarify your responsibilities and options.

Contact Our Winston-Salem Child Support Attorney Today

Child support is critical to ensuring children receive the financial support they need. Understanding how child support works in North Carolina, including the calculation methods and duration of obligations, can help parents navigate this process more effectively.

At Collins Family & Elder Law Group, we are committed to helping families achieve fair and just child support arrangements. If you are facing challenges related to child support in Winston-Salem, reach out for a consultation to discuss your case. Your children’s well-being is our priority, and we strive to advocate for your rights and your family's best interests.

Contact Collins Family & Elder Law Group today to schedule a meeting with our child support lawyer in Winston-Salem!