Charlotte County Child Support Lawyer

Protecting Your Child's Future in Florida

A divorce can be very devastating to a child, possibly leading to feelings of instability and insecurity. Your children's welfare is considered to be the most important point to address by the Florida court system. When a divorce occurs, their well being can be greatly affected through economic changes in life style. When confronting the issue of child support, having a skilled Florida child support attorney is crucial to ensuring your children will have the wherewithal they need to keep their quality of life.

Aside from continuing to love your children and seeing them often, you have no higher obligation as a parent than to continue supporting your children after the divorce. Child support is more important than any other debt or financial obligation. Both parents are required to support the children but the non-residential parent will be directed to pay his/her portion of the support to the other.

Florida has adopted guidelines for child support that the court is required to follow. There are a number of factors which are considered by the Court to determine what amount should be paid in support for your family. They include ages of the children, the number of children involved, income of the custodial spouse, income of the non-custodial spouse and the needs of your children under the guidelines established by the state.

How is Child Support Determined in Florida?

Every child support case is unique. Each family's needs are different, as are their financial circumstances. At Bogle Law, our caring child support lawyers will provide you with the personal attention you need to this most important aspect of divorce involving your child support issue. Contact our office to obtain a consultation appointment.

What Factors Go into Child Support Payments in Florida?

The factors that go into determining how much you pay for child support in Florida are:

• Expenses
• Parent’s ability to pay
• Child’s needs
• Florida’s basic support amount
• Number of children to support
• Number of days the child is with the father

How Long is Child Support in Florida?

In Florida, child support will usually continue until the child has turned 18. There are times when it can continue past 18, it can even continue until the child has:

• Until the child graduated from high school or turns 19
• Continue indefinitely for special need children

Many child support orders signed after October 2010 neglected to put a termination date. Those who do not have a termination date may have a hard time terminating the support.

For help with child support during a divorce, contact Florida Divorce Lawyer Tauna R. Bogle, P.A. for assistance.

Understanding Child Support in Charlotte County, Florida

At Bogle Law, we understand that navigating child support issues in Charlotte County can be particularly challenging for families. Local resources, such as the Charlotte County Clerk of the Circuit Court, provide essential information on child support guidelines and processes. However, many parents find themselves overwhelmed by the complexities of the system, especially when trying to balance their financial obligations with the emotional needs of their children.

Residents of Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, and surrounding areas often face unique challenges when it comes to child support. The cost of living in our community can strain budgets, making it crucial to ensure that child support payments are fair and adequate. Additionally, parents may worry about how changes in employment or unexpected expenses could impact their ability to meet these obligations. Our team is here to help you navigate these concerns and advocate for your child's best interests.

Understanding the local court's approach to child support is vital. The 20th Judicial Circuit Court, which serves Charlotte County, follows specific guidelines that consider various factors, including income levels and the needs of the child. We recognize that each family's situation is unique, and we are committed to providing personalized support to help you achieve a resolution that works for you and your children.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is the process for modifying child support in Florida?

In Florida, modifying child support requires a substantial change in circumstances. This could include changes in income, employment status, or the needs of the child. To initiate a modification, you must file a petition with the court that issued the original child support order. The court will review the evidence presented and determine if a modification is warranted.

Can child support be enforced if the non-custodial parent fails to pay?

Yes, in Florida, if the non-custodial parent fails to pay child support, there are several enforcement mechanisms available. The custodial parent can file a motion for enforcement with the court. The court may impose various penalties, including wage garnishment, suspension of driver's licenses, or even jail time for non-compliance.

How does shared parenting affect child support calculations in Florida?

The amount of time each parent spends with the child is a critical factor in determining support obligations. If the non-custodial parent has substantial overnight visits, this may reduce their child support payments. The court will consider the number of days the child spends with each parent, along with their respective incomes and expenses, to arrive at a fair support amount that reflects the shared parenting arrangement.