At Griffin Family Law, PLLC, we understand the complexities of child support cases and the emotional toll they can take on families. Whether you seek support or need to modify an existing arrangement, having an experienced Jacksonville child support lawyer can make all the difference.
Our team of top-rated attorneys is dedicated to helping families navigate Florida’s child support laws and ensuring that children receive the financial support they need.
Understanding Child Support in Florida
Child support in Florida is governed by specific guidelines outlined in Florida Statutes Section 61.30. The law uses a formula to calculate the appropriate amount of support based on several factors, including the income of both parents, the number of children, and the amount of time each parent spends with the children.
Our experienced child support attorneys in Jacksonville are well-versed in these laws and understand how to apply them in each unique case. While the state provides a formula, there is still room for negotiation and modification, which makes having a skilled lawyer crucial in ensuring that the support amount is fair and accurate.
How Is Child Support Calculated?
Florida uses an income shares model to determine child support payments. This model assumes that the child should receive the same proportion of parental income as they would if the parents lived together. The calculation takes into account:
- The gross monthly income of both parents
- Childcare costs
- Health insurance costs for the child
- The number of overnight stays the child has with each parent
According to Florida law, child support obligations continue until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever comes later, but not beyond age 19. However, in some cases, such as when a child has special needs, support may continue indefinitely.
As your child support lawyer in Florida, we will review all these factors carefully to ensure that the calculated amount accurately reflects your financial situation and that your child receives the support they are entitled to.
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION – Call (904) 372-9708 or fill out the form to schedule your free initial consultation to learn more about how we can help and to discuss your options with an experienced lawyer.
Why Hire a Jacksonville Child Support Lawyer?
Navigating Florida’s child support laws without professional legal assistance can be overwhelming. Our team at Griffin Family Law, PLLC, is here to help you understand your rights and responsibilities under the law.
Here are some key reasons to hire a top-rated Jacksonville child support attorney:
1. Experience with Florida Child Support Laws
Florida’s child support guidelines are specific but leave room for interpretation in certain situations. Determining income can be complicated if one parent is self-employed or receives bonuses or commissions. We have the expertise to identify and argue for the most accurate assessment of income in these cases.
2. Enforcement of Child Support Orders
If the other parent is not complying with a court-ordered child support agreement, we can help enforce the order. Florida law provides several mechanisms for enforcing child support, including wage garnishment, intercepting tax refunds, and even suspending the non-compliant parent’s driver’s license. We will take swift action to ensure your child’s needs are met.
3. Modifying Existing Child Support Orders
Child support arrangements may need to be modified if there has been a substantial change in circumstances. This could include a significant change in income, a job loss, or the time the child spends with each parent.
As your child support lawyer near you, we can petition the court for a modification and present a compelling case for the changes.
Common Questions About Child Support in Florida
How Is Income Determined for Child Support Purposes?
In Florida, “income” includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, and business income if one or both parents are self-employed. It can also include other sources such as rental income, retirement benefits, and severance pay.
Our Jacksonville child support attorneys will work to ensure that all forms of income are considered when calculating or modifying support.
What Happens if a Parent Fails to Pay Child Support?
Florida has strict enforcement measures if a parent fails to meet their child support obligations. These include:
- Wage Garnishment is the most common enforcement tool, allowing child support to be deducted directly from the non-paying parent’s paycheck.
- Driver’s License Suspension: Non-payment of child support can result in suspending the non-paying parent’s driver’s license.
- Contempt of Court: The non-paying parent could be held in contempt, which may result in fines or jail time.
We understand the urgency of enforcing child support orders and will work tirelessly to ensure compliance.
Can I Modify My Child Support Order?
Yes, child support orders can be modified if there has been a substantial change in circumstances. A considerable change typically involves a significant shift in income or parenting time. If you believe your child support order no longer reflects your current situation, our experienced child support attorneys in Jacksonville can help you file for a modification.
How We Can Help You
At Griffin Family Law, PLLC, we take a client-centered approach to child support cases. We know that every family’s situation is different, and we tailor our legal strategies to meet the specific needs of your case. Our team of Jacksonville child support attorneys is here to:
- Provide Legal Guidance: We will explain Florida’s child support laws and help you understand your rights.
- Negotiate on Your Behalf: We can negotiate child support amounts during the initial case or when seeking a modification.
- Advocate in Court: If your case goes to court, we will represent you with the professionalism and dedication that has made us a top-rated Jacksonville child support attorney firm.
Understanding the Cost of Child Support in Jacksonville
Child support is one of the most important obligations a parent can face. Failing to make timely payments can have financial and legal consequences. However, the cost of child support can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Our child support attorneys in Jacksonville can work with you to ensure that the amount you are required to pay—or receive—accurately reflects your child’s financial needs and your ability to pay.
In Florida, child support amounts are designed to provide for:
- Housing
- Education
- Health care
- Extracurricular activities
- Basic living expenses
We are committed to ensuring that child support payments are fair and serve the child’s best interests.
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION – Call (904) 372-9708 or fill out the form to schedule your free initial consultation to learn more about how we can help and to discuss your options with an experienced lawyer.
Why Choose Griffin Family Law, PLLC?
- Experienced and Compassionate Team: We have handled numerous child support cases, from initial determinations to complex modifications and enforcement actions.
- Personalized Legal Solutions: We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. We will work with you to develop a legal strategy that meets your unique needs.
- Aggressive Representation: Whether in negotiations or the courtroom, we will aggressively advocate for your rights and your child’s best interests.
Contact Us Today
If you are facing a child support issue in Florida, don’t go through it alone. Contact Griffin Family Law, PLLC, today at (904) 593-3889 to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable Jacksonville child support lawyer. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of Florida’s child support laws and ensure that your child’s financial needs are met.
Whether you need to establish support, modify an existing order, or enforce a child support agreement, we have the experience and dedication to handle your case.
Call us now to speak with a top-rated Jacksonville child support attorney.
