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Helping Families Determine Financial Support For Children

Modern families can take a variety of forms, and parents may be married, divorced, cohabiting, or separated. However, no matter the nature of the parents’ relationship, both parents are required to provide financial support for their children. Determining the correct amount of this support can often be a complex matter, which is why it is essential to work with a family law attorney to ensure that children have the financial resources they deserve.

At Laraia & Whitty, P.C., we understand the emotional nature of divorce and family law cases, especially when children are involved. We are dedicated to protecting children’s best interests in these cases, and we will provide you with the legal advocacy to ensure that your children have the financial support that will meet their needs.

Child Support In Illinois

When parents are divorced or separated, the parent with the majority of the parenting time will typically receive child support payments from the other parent. In the past, Illinois determined the amount of child support using a set percentage of the paying parent’s income. However, the law changed in 2017, and Illinois now uses an “income sharing” method to calculate child support.

According to the guidelines defined in the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act, child support is determined by calculating both parents’ net incomes and each parent’s percentage share of their combined income. Tables provided by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services are used to determine a support obligation for the number of children the parents share, based on what parents who earn that combined income would typically spend to care for that number of children. The obligation is then divided between the parents based on their percentage shares of the combined income.

In cases in which parents share equal or near-equal amounts of parenting time, further calculations may be necessary to divide the child support obligation based on the number of overnight stays children spend with each parent each year. Parents may also be required to divide the costs of additional child-related expenses, such as daycare costs, medical expenses, educational expenses, or fees for extracurricular activities.

Contact A Wheaton Family Law Attorney

Every family law case is unique, and specific issues can affect the amount of child support that children should receive. The experienced attorneys of Laraia & Whitty, P.C. can assess your situation, ensuring that gross and net income are calculated correctly for both parents and any additional expenses are accounted for. If your family’s circumstances have changed in the years since a child support order was created, we can help you determine your options for modifying your order to suit your financial situation and meet your children’s changing needs.

No matter the complexity of your situation, we will advocate for your children’s best interests and ensure that they receive the financial support they deserve from both parents. Contact our DuPage County law office today at 630-228-9984 to schedule a free consultation. We provide legal help to families in Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, Glendale Heights, Warrenville, Wheaton, Carol Stream, Kane County, Cook County, Kendall County and Will County.