Child support in the State of Florida is set up according to the Florida Child Support Guidelines. Normally, the parent who is granted primary physical custody of the minor children receives child support from the other parent. The amount of child support paid is based on the number of children and both parent's net monthly income.Child support is a periodic payment made to a custodial parent from a non-custodial parent to help compensate a child's living expenses; i.e., food, clothes, etc., and any other related debts. When one parent is awarded sole custody, as in the event of a divorce, the non-custodial parent is required to fulfill his or her child support obligation by making set payments, whereas the custodial parent meets his or her support obligation through the custody itself. When parents are awarded joint custody in a divorce, however, the support obligation is shared and is based on a ratio of each parent's income and the amount of time the child spends with each parent. The obligation to support minor children cannot be waived by either parent and is a right enjoyed by the child, not the parent. The State of Florida has guidelines that factor the amount of child support, such as the amount of time spent with the child, the income of both parents and the standard of living the child is accustomed to. The Court may allow deduction items such as catastrophic medical expenses and travel expenses for visitation. Some clients wish to have the child support decrease due to lowered income or loss of employment. If the client is seeking a reduction, it must be proven there has been a substantial change in circumstances. It is important to hire a lawyer who practices this type of law and is familiar with working with the Department of Revenue, and is frequently in court. |
