When a custodial parent has sole custody and is the primary caretaker of his or her children, the noncustodial parent will usually need to pay child support. The question is, how much child support will the custodial parent have the right to receive?
In almost all situations where there is disagreement over child support amounts, the custodial parent wants to receive more and the noncustodial parent wants to pay less.
What factors determine child support payment levels?
Although most Tennessee parents can come to a reasonable agreement on appropriate child support amounts, when there is a disagreement, the courts will decide the matter. There are a variety of factors that courts consider when making a child custody determination. Here are some of the most important:
— The child’s financial needs: Some children require more money for their care than others. Courts will consider the unique needs of the child, such as costs related to daycare, education, insurance and special needs.
— The financial status of the parent: Some custodial parents earn more money than others. If the custodial parent does not earn as much as the noncustodial parent, the custodial parent might be able to receive more money in child support.
— Prior standard of living: Courts will also consider the standard of living enjoyed by the child before the divorce. Courts may try to ensure that the child keeps a similar standard of living after the parents are separated.
The law protects custodial parents and their children by requiring noncustodial parents to pay child support. However, litigation and legal action may be required to ensure that the custodial parent’s rights are protected. For those who need to assert their rights, a Tennessee family law attorney can be of great assistance.
Source: FindLaw, “How to calculate child support,” accessed April 27, 2017