Rochester, New York Divorce and Child Support Lawyer
Almost everyone who goes through a divorce must make major financial adjustments. In addition to providing for the equitable distribution of property, your divorce decree must address the payment of child support, if minor children are involved, and spousal maintenance if any is sought by either party. Please contact our law offices for valuable counsel in protecting your financial future.
Almost all non-residential parents have an obligation to pay child support. Whether you will pay or receive child support after divorce, it is critical to take this into account as other aspects of your settlement are negotiated and you begin planning for life after divorce.
Looking at All Angles on Child Support
By New York law, child support is payable until children turn 21, so financial implications are especially far-reaching for people with young children. Our law offices can also assist you in seeking post-divorce modifications when circumstances change — but it is critical to understand your rights and obligations up front.
Your basic monthly child support amount will be determined according to a formula, taking the parents' income and number of children into account. However, there are several other add-on expenses that are in addition to basic child support, such as:
- Day-care expenses
- Educational expenses or other specific needs of a child
- Medical insurance and uninsured medical/dental, etc.
There can be a deviation from the basic child support formula based upon various factors, including but not limited to:
- Split custody
- Potentially shared custodial arrangements
- Extraordinary visitation issues
- Relocation situations
- Extraordinary income situations, especially when the primary residential parent earns significantly more than the non-primary residential parent
Understanding Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance (sometimes referred to as alimony) is payment to the spouse, generally for rehabilitation. The amount and duration of the payment is subject to the court and the economic factors involved. Obviously, the longer the marriage and the higher the income, the greater the probability of maintenance. Any physical impairment to the person receiving maintenance can also affect the amount and duration of maintenance payments.
There are no official guidelines to determine spousal maintenance. However, New York judges have great latitude in spousal maintenance decisions. Your future well-being may depend on your attorney's ability to gather and accurately present financial data that support your best interests.
For Information and Counsel you can Trust, Call (866) 869-3164
Many people ultimately regret compromises they make under the stress of divorce. We are dedicated to providing all the information you need to make decisions you can live with, ensuring your best interests are protected. For this level of commitment and personal attention to your case, please contact us today.
