Child Support Attorney

How Child Support Works in Murfreesboro Tennessee

Child support is a crucial aspect of ensuring that children receive the financial support they need from both parents, regardless of the parents’ relationship status.

In Tennessee, laws are designed to provide for the child’s well-being, including their basic needs, education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities.

Understanding how child support works in Tennessee can help parents navigate the system more effectively.

Determining Child Support

In Tennessee, child support is calculated using the Income Shares Model. This model estimates the amount of support a child would have received if the parents were living together and divides that amount proportionally based on each parent’s income. The basic steps to determine child support include

Determining Factors for Child Custody

Calculating Gross Income: Both parents’ gross incomes are combined to determine the total household income. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, and other sources of income.

Adjustments for Other Children: Adjustments are made if either parent has other children to support, either from previous relationships or new ones.

Determining Each Parent’s Percentage of Income: The percentage of each parent’s contribution to the combined income is calculated.

Basic Child Support Obligation: The Tennessee Child Support Guidelines provide a chart that specifies the basic child support obligation based on the combined income and the number of children.

Adjustments for Additional Expenses: Additional expenses, such as health insurance premiums, work-related childcare, and extraordinary educational or medical costs, are factored into the final child support amount.

Payment and Enforcement

Child support payments in Tennessee are typically made through the Tennessee Child Support Enforcement Services (TCSES). Payments can be deducted directly from the paying parent’s paycheck or made through other methods approved by the court. The TCSES monitors payments and enforces child support orders. If a parent fails to make payments, enforcement actions can include wage garnishment, tax refund interception, suspension of licenses, and even jail time.

Legal Steps to Take with Child Support

Navigating the legal steps involved in establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support can be complex. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand the process.

When pursuing a child custody case in Tennessee, it’s essential to follow the proper legal procedures to ensure the best possible outcome for your child. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Step 1: Establishing Paternity

Before child support can be ordered, paternity must be established if the parents are not married. This can be done voluntarily through an Acknowledgment of Paternity form or through genetic testing ordered by the court.

Step 2: Filing a Child Support Petition

To initiate a case, a petition must be filed with the appropriate court. This petition includes information about the child, the parents, and the requested support amount.

Step 3: Serving the Other Parent

The other parent must be formally served with a copy of the petition and a summons to appear in court. This ensures they are aware of the legal action and have an opportunity to respond.

Step 4: Court Hearings

Both parents will attend court hearings where evidence of income, expenses, and the child’s needs are presented. The court uses this information to determine the appropriate amount of child support.

Step 5: Issuing the Child Support Order

The judge issues a order that specifies the amount to be paid, the payment schedule, and any additional requirements, such as providing health insurance.

Step 6: Enforcement of Child Support Orders

If a parent fails to comply with the order, enforcement actions can be taken. This includes wage garnishment, property liens, and other measures to ensure compliance.

Step 7: Modifying Child Support

If circumstances change, either parent can request a modification of the child support order. This might be necessary due to changes in income, job loss, or significant changes in the child’s needs.

When You Should Hire a Child Support Attorney

There are several situations where hiring a family law attorney can be beneficial. From establishing paternity to disputes over child support amount, there are many matters where an attorney’s knowledge and guidance can help your legal situation.

The legal system can be overwhelming and confusing. An experienced family law attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and your rights are protected.

If you or a friend are searching for a family law attorney in Murfreesboro, then turn to the Law Office of Scott Kimberly.

Attorney Scott Kimberly

Murfreesboro lawyer Scott Kimberly specializes in criminal defense, family law, and personal injury. Scott’s reputation for putting clients first is evidenced by numerous client testimonials, years of award-winning customer service, and a 10.0 Avvo rating.