California Child Support

Child support can be ordered by the Family Law Court payable by one or both parents. Child support in California is generally determined by guideline calculations and is  usually paid monthly, until the child is eighteen to nineteen years old.

The formula used to calculate California guideline support is complex and the aid of a competent California attorney is advisable.

California child support is generally paid until the child is eighteen years old. However, if the child has not graduated high school the child will generally receive child support until they graduate or turns nineteen years old.

If parents so desire they can agree to continue the child support payments for the child, after the child turns 19 and is attending college.

Department of Child Support Services/DCSS

Paternity

Paternity can be established by the court or through the stipulation of parties.

Wage Assignment

Unless otherwise agreed.  California child support is generally paid by wage assignment. Child support may be deducted directly from your paycheck. Military personnel often will have their wages garnished through DFAS.

Child Support Factors

Child support is calculated using a California state mandated formula.Some factors that court considers when calculating a child support order are as follows.

• Income of Parents.
• Additional income Parents receive from other sources.
• Custodial or visitation time share.
• The tax status of the Parents.
• Mandatory pay deductions, such as union dues and retirement contributions.
• Day care costs and health care.
• Travel expenses for visitation.
• Earning potential of Parents.
• Support of children from other relationships.
• Other factors.

Modification of Child Support

Existing child support orders can often be modified.  However modification of an existing child support order and what the appropriate "Changed circumstances" are, should best be discussed with an lawyer. Often if changes occur in you or the other parents income it will be up to you or your lawyer to request a modification.