This website is the result of five (5) years of intense research
into the current Child Support system.
The goal is to inform (and educate, if need be) the Non-Custodial
Parent concerning child support issues by providing important, useful information; also to provide links to sites
of invaluable interest to the Non-Custodial Parent (NCP).
However, please keep in mind that this site is intended for informational
purposes only. For more specific concerns, an attorney who is well versed and highly qualified in family law is
still the best way to proceed.
The information contained here is simply to make available,
in one place, the wealth of information that may be of use to Non-Custodial Parents attempting to understand the enormity
of the current Child Support system.
I hope you are able to find information that may be of use
to you in your particular situation.
As you view these pages and links, please keep in mind that
the information contained here is the latest and most current information available at the time.
If you experience any broken or malfunctioning links, I would
appreciate it if you would e-mail me, so I may correct the problems.
Definition of Child Support
Child support is defined as: "Court-ordered funds to be paid by one parent to the custodial parent
of a minor child after divorce (dissolution) or separation. Usually the dollar amounts are based on the income of both parents,
the number of children, the expenses of the custodial parent, and any special needs of the child. In many states or locales
the amount is determined by a chart which factors in all these figures. It may also include health plan coverage, school tuition
or other expenses, and may be reduced during periods of extended visitation such as summer vacations. Child support generally
continues until the child reaches 18 years, graduates from high school, is emancipated (no longer lives with either parent),
or, in some cases, for an extended period such as college attendance. The amount and continuation of support may be changed
by the court upon application of either party depending on a proved change of circumstance of the parents or child. Child
support should not be confused with alimony (spousal support) which is for the ex-spouse's support. Child support is not deductible
from gross income for tax purposes (but may allow a dependent exemption) nor is it taxed as income, unlike alimony, which
is deductible by the payer and taxed as the adult recipient's income".
Source: The Free Dictionary.com
Family courts prefer that an amicable child support agreement is reached
between the Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents. If this cannot be accomplished, and the courts must intervene, it is the
responsibility of the court to ensure that the best interest of the child(ren) are being served. If the courts do intervene,
the Non-Custodial Parent and his/her attorney should make every effort to guarantee that the basic, reasonable living expenses
of the Non-Custodial Parent are reflected in the child support order.