How Is Child Support Calculated In Georgia?
In a divorce involving children and in legitimation actions, child support is an important factor in ensuring that a child’s financial needs are covered. This is an obligation, not an option, for the parent who is assigned the responsibility of paying support.
Child support is calculated according to a set of guidelines set by the state, taking into account the parties’ gross income, health insurance premiums for the child, daycare/after school care expenses, and the amount of parenting time granted to the parent paying child support. While it is possible to deviate from these guidelines should both parents agree, paying child support is mandatory. If you do not supply this important financial contribution to your child’s life after you are ordered to do so, you could be held in contempt of court.
At Stahl Law Group, P.C., in Cartersville, we represent people during the divorce process in Georgia. Our experienced family law attorneys are ready to assist you with paying or receiving child support. In either situation, we will strive for a solution that is fair and that is in the best interests of the children. Contact our firm today to set up a consultation to discuss child support.
Should Your Child Support Be Modified?
Our founding attorney, Christina Stahl, has more than 27 years of experience helping families navigate the complexities of family law. Child support is often a highly contested area of law, and we are determined to help our clients understand what their role is in the matter and how they can support the best interests of their children.
It is not uncommon for one or both parents to feel frustrated and vindictive. We understand the importance of your children and are determined to help you move past the emotional turmoil of your divorce, legitimation or modification and focus on how to best approach your unique situation so that you can plan for a brighter future for you and your children.
Factors Considered In Georgia Child Support Modification
In Georgia, child support modification is governed by specific state laws that ensure the financial needs of the child are met. Parents who are looking to modify their agreement need to show that there is a substantial change in the financial circumstances of either party since the last court order that involved child support. Some valid reasons to modify an order include changes in income, employment status or the needs of the child. To request a modification, a parent must file a petition with the court, outlining the reasons for the requested change.
The court considers several factors when deciding on a child support modification. A few examples of these factors include the financial needs of the child, any special needs, changes in the parent’s income and the terms of the current child support order. The court’s goal in these cases is to find a balance between the best interests of the child and the financial abilities of the parents. In Georgia, courts use the “Income Shares Model” to calculate child support obligations and find this balance.
Considering how complex these cases can be, it is vital to turn to the guidance of a skilled Cartersville child support lawyer. With our guidance, we can help you through every stage of the modification process, whether you are trying to change or defend the agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support In Georgia
Few family law issues are as daunting as those involving child support. Below, we offer clear answers to urgent questions and concerns parents often have about how Georgia handles child support obligations.
When does a parent’s duty to pay child support end in Georgia?
In Georgia, child support obligations usually end when a child turns 18. However, if the child is still in high school on a full‑time basis, payments typically continue until graduation but not past age 20. Child support may also end earlier if the child marries or becomes legally emancipated. A legal review of the order can confirm the exact timeline that applies to your case.
Is it lawful to stop paying child support if my co-parent withholds my parenting time?
No. Georgia treats child support and parenting time as separate legal issues. A parent cannot stop paying support because the other parent interferes with visitation, and doing so can lead to contempt findings or other penalties. The proper response is to seek legal guidance in filing a motion addressing the visitation violation rather than withholding financial support.
What if my co-parent purposely chooses to be unemployed to avoid paying child support?
If a judge finds that a parent is intentionally earning less than they reasonably could, the court may impute income. This means the amount of support will be calculated based on what the parent should be earning given their work history, education and local employment opportunities. Imputation helps prevent a parent from avoiding their support obligations through strategic unemployment or voluntary underemployment.
How frequently can I ask the court to review or change my existing child support order?
Generally speaking, Georgia requires a two‑year gap between child support modification requests. However, exceptions exist when there is an involuntary loss of income or a significant change in the child’s needs. In situations like this, a parent may seek a modification sooner. Our experienced attorney can help you determine if your circumstances qualify for an early review under state law.
Contact Stahl Law Group, P.C., Today For Help
To learn more about how an experienced Cartersville child support attorney can help you, send us an email or call 678-792-4190.