Young children deserve to have good health care, a safe place to live, the school supplies they need and new clothes as they grow. When a child’s parents are no longer together, child support ensures that these needs are fulfilled. In New York, the parent who lives with the child most of the time — known as the custodial parent — is usually entitled to child support.
At Daniella Levi & Associates, P.C., in Queens, we are strong advocates for parents who expect to receive child support as well as for those who expect to pay child support. We have the experience and knowledge to protect and uphold your child’s best interests whether you are going through a divorce or have separated from a partner.
Understanding New York’s Child Support Rules
In New York, a specific formula determines the amount of child support the noncustodial parent will be ordered to pay. The calculation takes into consideration several factors, including:
- Each parent’s income
- Your child custody arrangement
- Child care expenses
- Other children involved
It is very important that your child support order be established correctly the first time. Trying to fix problems later on is not only difficult, but it is also expensive. Our lawyers have extensive experience establishing child support orders that are enforceable and fair. We can help you prevent costly problems from occurring down the road.
Modifying Child Support Orders
It is possible to modify a child support order, but it must be done legally and with the approval of a judge. Our child support attorneys will help you determine if your order should be modified and walk you through the process.
There are several reasons to modify a child support order. A change in your custody arrangement can affect child support. For example, if your child was living with your ex most of the time, but now you split custody equally, the child support you are paying should be reduced. A major change in the paying parent’s income – whether an increase or decrease – may also be a reason to adjust a child support order.