When parents file for divorce, they part with a number of things shared so far between them. But when it comes to their children, things can get a bit complicated. After all, children are most affected by a decision made by their parents, which was never their choice. Nevertheless, parents have to fulfil their obligation to support them financially whenever needed. A Fort Lauderdale child support lawyer can explain the terms for how children can be well taken care of, regardless of the marital status of their parents.
What does the law say?
Florida law has clearly laid down the policies that define how child support is calculated. This outlines several factors that courts consider, including how much money their parents make, how many children they have, how they spend time with them, and how much they spend on them. A Fort Lauderdale child support lawyer can explain all such things to the parents. Some of the other important factors that courts consider include:
- Cost of children's education
- Expenses that are paid towards child care
- Healthcare expenses
- Money paid for supporting children's extra-curricular activities
- Fees for annual summer camps
Most of the parents generally understand that their children are their responsibility, till they come of age. Until then, they have to fulfil every big or small requirement made by their child, regardless of their current status. However, some parents may want to brush their hands off, despite having adequate resources to support their children. This is where the law is forced to step in and help the little ones and the dependent that is living with the child get their dues.
How does child support work?
If no resolution is reached in any attempt for an out-of-court settlement, a court order should be sought to get the things going. To begin with, the two parents must mutually agree on what the alimony amount will be to support the children. The judge in the matter must approve this agreement to make it legal through an official court order. Services of a Fort Lauderdale child support lawyer can again help here in deciding the appropriate amount, and whether there can be any provisions for dealing with the final judgment.
Any parent who does not follow the judgment may be subject to wage deduction, license suspension, passport seizure, income tax intercepts and even tried for contempt of court. Things should though never reach this stage, for children are the gift from God, and they must be nurtured to become good human beings in the future. They must be taught the value of life and relationship, and how they should make right judgments in their lives and try not to repeat what their parents had to do.
