Weddington Child Support Lawyers
Helping you navigate the child support process in North Carolina
Child support is an important aspect of family law that ensures children receive the financial support they need to thrive after a separation or divorce. Understanding how child support works, how it’s calculated, and what your rights and responsibilities are can feel overwhelming. Whether you're a parent seeking support or needing help to fulfill your obligations, we’re here to guide you through the process. Our experienced attorneys at Epperson Law Group, PLLC are committed to helping you navigate child support issues with understanding and compassion, ensuring that your child's best interests remain the top priority.
How can we help?
- How does North Carolina determine the amount of child support?
- Who pays the child support order in Weddington?
- Does child support pay all my child’s expenses?
- How long does a child support order last?
- Are modifications to child support orders allowed in Weddington?
- What can I do if my co-parent is not paying the child support order?
- Do visitation rights affect child support?
- Do you have a Weddington child support lawyer near me?
How does North Carolina determine the amount of child support?
In North Carolina, the amount of child support is determined using a formula established by the state’s child support guidelines. This process typically involves several key steps:
- Income calculation: Both parents' gross incomes are calculated, which includes wages, bonuses, commissions, and any other sources of income. This gives a clear picture of the combined income of both parents.
- Child support guidelines worksheet: The combined income is then used in a child support guidelines worksheet, which helps calculate the basic support obligation. This worksheet considers the number of children and the needs of each child.
- Additional expenses: The court may also factor in additional expenses, such as health insurance premiums, child care costs, and extraordinary medical expenses. These costs can affect the overall child support amount.
- Deviation factors: In some cases, the court can adjust the child support amount based on special circumstances, like a child's special needs or the parents' unique financial situations.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that the child receives adequate financial support while maintaining fairness for both parents. If you have questions about how child support is calculated in your specific situation, it's wise to consult with a family law attorney who can provide personalized guidance. At Epperson Law Group, PLLC, we can help.
Who pays the child support order in Weddington?
The parent who does not have primary physical custody of the child is typically responsible for paying child support. This means that if one parent has the child living with them most of the time, the other parent will usually make child support payments to help cover the child’s expenses.
The amount of child support is determined based on the North Carolina child support guidelines, which consider both parents' incomes and other factors related to the child's needs. It's important to note that child support is meant to benefit the child, ensuring they have adequate financial support for things like housing, food, education, and healthcare.
If circumstances change — like a change in income, job loss, or changes in custody arrangements — the child support order can be modified. It's important to keep the court informed about any significant changes that may affect the support obligation. If you have specific questions about child support payments or need assistance with a child support case, consulting with our family law attorneys can provide clarity and support.
Does child support pay all my child’s expenses?
While child support is designed to help cover many of your child's essential expenses, it may not pay for everything. In North Carolina, child support typically covers basic needs such as food, clothing, housing, and educational costs. However, there are additional expenses that may not be included in the standard child support calculations.
For instance, costs related to extracurricular activities, medical expenses not covered by insurance, and other special needs may require separate agreements or additional payments. Parents can discuss these additional expenses and potentially include them in the child support order, but it's important to specify these details in the custody agreement or court order.
If you have concerns about whether your child support payments will cover all of your child's needs, it’s a good idea to talk to the family law attorneys at Epperson Law Group, PLLC. We can help you understand the guidelines, what expenses are typically covered, and how to address any additional costs that may arise.
How long does a child support order last?
In North Carolina, the responsibility to pay child support typically lasts until your child turns 18 or becomes emancipated, such as by joining the military or getting married. However, if your child is still in high school and making good academic progress, parents are required to continue child support payments until the child turns 20. There may be other exceptions that could extend this period as well. While the parent who pays child support (the obligor) can stop payments when the child turns 18—unless there’s an agreement to continue support—they still must pay any past-due amounts (arrears) owed.
Are modifications to child support orders allowed in Weddington?
If circumstances change significantly after a child support order is established, either parent can request a modification to adjust the support amount. Common reasons for seeking a modification include a change in income (such as a job loss or significant raise), changes in the child’s needs, or changes in custody arrangements.
To initiate a modification, the requesting parent must typically file a motion with the court, providing evidence that supports the need for the change. The court will review the situation and determine whether a modification is justified based on the new circumstances. It’s important to note that until a court officially approves the modification, the existing child support order remains in effect. Our family law attorneys can help you understand your options and work through the legal steps involved.
What can I do if my co-parent is not paying the child support order?
If your co-parent is not paying the child support order, there are several steps you can take to address the situation. First, it’s a good idea to communicate directly with your co-parent to see if there’s a reason for the missed payments or if they’re experiencing financial difficulties. Sometimes a conversation can lead to a solution.
If that doesn’t work, you can consider filing a complaint with the North Carolina Child Support Enforcement (CSE) agency. They can help enforce the child support order, which may include wage garnishment, intercepting tax refunds, or even taking legal action against the non-paying parent.
You also have the option to file a motion with the court, asking for enforcement of the child support order. This can lead to a court hearing where the judge can determine the appropriate steps to ensure that payments are made. Remember, it’s important to keep records of any missed payments, as this documentation can be useful in court.
Our Weddington family law attorneys can help you with this process.
Do visitation rights affect child support?
Generally, no. The obligation to pay child support is separate from your child custody or visitation rights. Your child needs a stable home, food, and clothing now, regardless of how often you see them. If a court order requires you to pay child support, you must continue to make those payments, even if your spouse or ex-partner isn’t allowing you to see your children.
However, you do have options. You can take steps to enforce an existing child custody order if you have one. If there isn’t a current child custody order in place, our Weddington family lawyers can assist you in obtaining one to help clarify your rights and responsibilities regarding visitation.
Do you have a Weddington child support lawyer near me?
Epperson Law Group, PLLC sees clients at its offices at 1940 Weddington Road, Weddington, NC 28104, by appointment only. We serve all of North Carolina. We also offer virtual conferences and telephone consultations. Call us today.
Experienced Weddington child support lawyers working for you
Are you facing challenges with child support in Weddington? You don’t have to go through it alone. The dedicated attorneys at Epperson Law Group, PLLC are here to help you understand your rights and options. We can work with you to ensure your child’s needs are met, and that you have the support you deserve during this difficult time. Take the first step toward finding a solution that works for you and your family with us. To schedule your consultation, please call us or fill out our contact form.
Weddington Office
1940 Weddington Road
Weddington, NC 28104
Tel: 704-859-2264