Child support is frequently misunderstood and, too often, feared. This is understandable since it deals with people's most precious assets - their kids and their money. In reality, the intention of child support is to ensure a child's well-being, in both households.
How well do you understand how child support works?
MYTH
Given 50/50 custody schedule, there will be no child support payment by either parent.
BUSTED: Child support payments are not based only on the amount of time each parents spends with the child. Additional factors include gross income and certain expenses such as other child support payments or medical bills.
MYTH
The father always pays the child support.
BUSTED: Child support payments may be made by the father or mother and are determined by the amount of time each parent spends with the child, gross income and other eligible expenses.
MYTH
Once a child support amount is set, it never changes.
BUSTED: Child support may be modified when parental circumstances change. Examples include an increase or decrease in income, the birth of additional children, or unemployment.
MYTH
Only the child's parents are eligible to receive child support.
BUSTED: Parents, legal guardians, or any party receiving public assistance for a child may apply for child support.
MYTH
It's no big deal if a child support payment is missed.
BUSTED: Enforcement methods for nonpayment can be severe - driver's license/passport may be suspended or revoked, tax refund can be intercepted and a bank account levied.
MYTH
Dad is not listed on the birth certificate, so he cannot receive or pay child support.
BUSTED: Parentage can be assessed using genetic testing, which ultimately determines rights and responsibilities. It does not matter if the father is not on the birth certificate.
Conclusion
Still have questions or myths to be busted? The experienced lawyers at Jamra and Jamra are here to make sure you know the facts. You can learn more on our website about child support and child support modifications. Contact us anytime.