Hiram Child Support Lawyer

Knowledgeable Child Support Attorney in Hiram, GA

Georgia laws governing child support can be complex and difficult to grasp. When you are dealing with child support concerns due to divorce or modification to an existing child support order, a Hiram child support lawyer can help you understand your rights and advocate on your behalf with the Paulding County Superior Court.

Your children are precious to you, and in Georgia, parents are required to support their children until they are 18 or have graduated from high school. Fair and reasonable child support orders are important legal matters, and parents who have recently experienced a divorce are often financially vulnerable.

At Young Law Firm, our Hiram family law attorneys have decades of experience advocating for families and their children in the family courts. We are well-respected by our colleagues and our clients, who have experienced the level of personal care and compassion we bring to every case.

Georgia Child Support Laws

In Georgia, child support laws are outlined in O.C.G.A. § 19-6-15. During custody and divorce proceedings, Georgia courts calculate child support using an income shares model that considers both parents’ income, the financial needs of the child, parenting time, and the number of children needing financial support.

Usually, support is paid to the parent with primary physical custody. In cases where physical custody is divided equally, whichever parent has greater resources pays support. While all children must be financially supported by their parents until they are at least 18, in cases where the child is disabled, child support may continue into adulthood.

Child support can be paid in several different ways, including:

• Periodically, usually in the form of a monthly payment
• Lump-sum payment
• Wage garnishment
• Property administration funds

It’s important to speak to a knowledgeable Hiram child support attorney, who can help you understand how your child custody arrangement and finances can impact child support.

Child Support Challenges

One of the most challenging aspects of child support cases is the sheer volume of unpaid child support impacting single-parent households. Whether due to unemployment or irresponsible financial planning by the parent responsible for paying support, many families face hardship because of back child support.

Unpaid child support creates a serious financial burden for families across Georgia. The courts and the Georgia Division of Child Support Services have tools at their disposal to collect child support payments in arrears, including wage garnishments, tax refund interception, and liens against property.

Child support is retroactive, which means if a parent has sole custody of a child due to the other parent’s absence, they are entitled to child support, retroactively from the time of the child’s birth, once paternity is established by the courts.

If you are a single parent seeking child support from an absentee parent, or a parent whose child support order has been violated due to negligence on the part of your former spouse, you have legal recourse. Speaking with a qualified child support lawyer can help relieve your financial burden and better support your child’s needs.

Modifying a Child Support Order in Hiram, GA

Changes happen in life, and child support orders should reflect these changes. If it has been two years or more since your Georgia child support order was last modified, or if your financial or living situation has changed significantly, it may be time to consider a modification. With the cost of education and medical care, it’s likely that your child support order does not accurately reflect the rising cost of living.

While the thought of modifying an existing order may seem daunting, Georgia custody and child support laws are subject to changes in legislation. It’s crucial to regularly review your order with the assistance of a knowledgeable attorney to help maintain the financial welfare of your child and ensure a fair child support amount.

FAQs

What Is the Maximum Child Support per Month in Georgia?

Child support amounts in Georgia are calculated using an income shares model under O.C.G.A. § 19-6-15 that accounts for both parents’ income, the number of minor children, parenting time, and the needs of the child. This system ensures that the financial and medical needs of the child will be met without causing undue financial burden on the parent providing child support.

Should I Get a Lawyer for a Child Support Hearing?

It’s advisable to consult with a lawyer for child support cases, as we can help you gather evidence to support your case, organize financial records, and create a compelling case. Attorneys who are knowledgeable about Georgia child support laws can advise you on the most effective course of action to help ensure a favorable outcome for your family. Most attorneys offer affordable consultations, and at Young Law Firm, your initial consultation is free.

How Much Is a Child Support Lawyer in Georgia?

Attorney fees vary according to the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience level, and the hourly fees attorneys typically charge. During the initial consultation, your attorney will listen carefully to the details of your case, share their retainer fee, and disclose any other up-front charges. Prospective clients are never under any obligation to hire a child support lawyer, and attorneys will not begin working on a case until they are retained.

Do You Have to Show Bank Statements for Child Support?

As part of the fiduciary disclosure aspect of child support cases, proof of income is required. Bank statements are one way in which parties can disclose income. Other relevant sources include brokerage statements, 401(k) statements, and real estate ownership records, as applicable. Failure to disclose financial information can lead to an unfavorable judgment, or in some cases, contempt of court.

Hire a Child Support Lawyer in Hiram, GA

If you need legal guidance, the team at Young Law Firm, LLC, is here to help. We offer a free initial consultation to review the details of your child support case and form a plan to advocate for you with the courts. With over 40 years of experience, our client-first approach, and our heart for serving the residents of Hiram and the greater Paulding County area, will help you approach your child support hearing with confidence. Contact us online today or call us at 770-824-9553 to schedule your free 30-minute consultation. We accept all major credit cards.