In most divorce cases in which there are children – whether the divorce is highly contested or amicably resolved through settlement negotiations – an important part of the process involves resolution of the child support issue. Your children are not getting a divorce. A Court will be concerned that the children’s standard of living is maintained as much as possible. If it is not addressed skillfully and correctly, that imperative may impose enormous financial pressures on both parents’ ability to maintain separate households. It may also dramatically affect your child’s standard of living.
As a divorce attorney and mediator I take my clients through the child support process thoroughly.
In addition to calculating the basic child support award, which ranges from 17 percent to 35 percent of the combined parental income up to the statutory cap of $136,000 in New York State, I introduce my clients to the sometimes overlooked Child Support “Extras”.
These “Extras” include:
- Childcare: babysitter, nanny
- Education: private school, college, books, supplies, SATS
- Summer Camp
- Health Insurance
- Unreimbursed medical and dental expenses
- Extracurricular Activities: Sports, dance, or music lessons.
- Life Insurance
Child support calculations may appear simple, and they sometimes are; but you should always have the benefit of an experienced and skilled attorney/mediator who understands the intricacies of the statute and the importance of maintaining your child’s highest standard of living.
Have questions about child support, contact us today!