Child Support Calculation Details

Summary

Child support in Louisiana is determined by both parents incomes and the number of children. Significant income changes, medical expenses, and custody arrangements can affect the amount. Consulting a family law attorney is recommended for precise calculations.

Full Conversation

I need legal advice on a possible child support issue
Hello Kary, I'd be happy to provide some general information about child support. Can you please share your location as laws can vary?
Louisiana
Hello Kary, in Louisiana:
- Both parents are obligated to support a child until they are *.
- The amount of child support is determined by the income of both parents and the number of children.
- If a parent fails to pay, it can lead to legal penalties.
- Modifications can be requested if circumstances change.
What are the circumstances for a change?
In Louisiana, circumstances that might warrant a change in child support include:
- Significant increase or decrease in either parent's income.
- Change in the child's needs or expenses.
- Change in custody or visitation arrangements.
- Either parent has another child from a different relationship.
Can you get into specifics?
Sure, Kary. In Louisiana:
- A significant income change generally means a *% change in the obligor's adjusted gross income.
- Changes in child's needs or expenses may include medical, educational or extracurricular costs.
- Changes in custody or visitation can affect the amount of support.
- If a parent has another child, it may impact their ability to pay.
My ex husband doesn’t have any of those circumstances, can he still take me to court?
Yes, your ex-husband can still take you to court to discuss child support, even if the circumstances you mentioned don't apply. Courts consider the best interest of the child, which may include factors beyond the ones listed.
Can you tell me what his child support should be?
In Louisiana, child support is calculated using guidelines based on the combined income of both parents and the number of children. Without specific information on both parents' incomes and the number of children involved, I can't provide an exact figure.
He makes about *,* a year and I make about *,* a year
How many children are involved in this child support situation, Kary?
* children, * and *
Thank you, Kary. Based on the information you provided, the child support might be calculated as follows in Louisiana:
- The combined income of both parents would be considered.
- The percentage of each parent's contribution to the combined income is calculated.
- This percentage is used to determine each parent's share of the basic child support obligation.
- However, other factors might also be considered.
- It would be best to consult with a family law attorney for a precise calculation.
What are the other factors?
In Louisiana, other factors that may influence child support include:
- Extraordinary medical expenses.
- Special educational needs of the child.
- The amount of time the child spends with each parent.
- Any other relevant factors that could affect the child's best interest.
I have domicile custody and he gets them every other weekend from Friday at 6pm to Sunday at 6pm
Thanks for sharing, Kary. Given your custody arrangement and the factors influencing child support in Louisiana, your ex-husband's obligation may be higher. However, a judge ultimately determines the final amount. Have you considered consulting a family law attorney for a precise calculation?