Child support
Support figured from real paychecks
Support is a formula, but the numbers going into it are where the arguments are. We make sure they’re right.
Overtime, harvest bonuses, a second job, self-employment and seasonal layoffs all change what support should be. We gather the pay stubs and tax returns, run the guideline both ways, and show you the result before anything is filed.
When support stops coming, we work with the county child support office or go to court to collect it. When your income drops, we ask for a change before the arrears pile up.
Guidelines run with your actual pay, both ways
Health insurance and childcare costs included
Changes asked for as soon as a job changes
What it covers
Support cases we take on
Setting support
In a divorce, a paternity case or on its own, with every source of income on the table.
Changing support
A new job, a layoff, a child moving in or out, or a child aging out of the order.
Collecting what’s owed
Wage withholding, tax refund intercepts and contempt when payments stop.
Self-employed parents
Farm, trucking and small-business income figured fairly, without letting expenses hide pay.
Support questions
Common questions about the numbers
My ex works for cash. How is support figured?
The court can look at bank deposits, spending and past earnings, and can count income a parent could earn. We gather what shows the real picture.
I lost my job. Does my support stop?
No. It keeps adding up until a court changes it, so ask for a change as soon as your income drops; the change usually can’t go back further than the date you asked.
Which state’s guideline applies if we live in different states?
Usually the state that issued the order, even after a parent moves. We can tell you which one applies to yours once we see the paperwork.
Check the numbers with us
Bring your last few pay stubs and your current order, if you have one.