Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support

While it depends from state to state, generally speaking, the amount of money is largely based on two factors. First, the court will examine the child’s reasonable needs and makes sure that those are covered. At the same time, the parents’ incomes are considered and according to that, the court will come up with a certain amount of money so that the child will receive the same proportion of parental incomes as it would have were the parents not divorced.

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What can I do if I don’t agree with a child support order?

Either party may file a petition to modify the court order. You must contact the domestic relations section that is responsible for your case and request a petition for modification. Once you have completed the form and then you will be contacted by the DRS for an additional hearing.

How do I find out what the other parent is earning?

You may contact the other parent once a year and ask for official documents, such as tax returns and pay stubs to show the annual income of the year prior. Then, the other parent is required to contact you within 30 days in order to provide that information. Vice versa, you are also required to provide the same information in return.

How long does it take to receive payments?

Generally, this is different from case to case because there are several factors involved. In certain cases it might be more difficult to locate an absent parent. Sometimes, the order for support does not exist yet, which is more difficult if two states are involved. If the other parent is not employed, different measures are taken and more time is needed. For the most part, it will take several months before any payments are received.

What about retired military members?

If your ex-spouse retired from the military, he/she is receiving retirement checks on a monthly basis, which can be garnished fro back child support.

How long does the duty to pay child support last?

Basically, parents are obligated to support their child until it reaches the age of 18. In certain cases, children are otherwise emancipated before reaching the age of 18 and are able to support themselves earlier than others. If the child attends high school on a full time basis, obligation to support will continue. In cases of mental or physical disability, the child is obviously not able to support him/herself and obligation also continues.

Are you seeking legal information regarding Baltimore child support laws? If so, contact our experienced Baltimore child support attorneys today!

	Did You Know?
	Child support payments are determined by the Child Support Enforcement Act of 1984. According to the Child Support Enforcement Act of 1984, the amount paid is based on guidelines issued by each state. In general, the guidelines use a formula that takes into consideration the amount the noncustodial parent makes and the amount required to care for the children.