Child Support

Atlanta, Georgia Child Support Attorney

If you are facing a divorce, and you have children, child support is almost never open to negotiation. Child support laws dictate that child support can’t be waived. A child has the right to be supported by his or her parent. I have represented many people in divorce cases. If you are facing a divorce, and you have questions about child support rights for fathers, for example, call me, Stephen Land. I would be happy to consult with you.

Child Support Facts

Child support guidelines are laid out in Georgia statutes. Child support calculations are currently based on a percentage of gross income of the non-custodial parent (This law will be superseded by a new statute due to go into effect late in November 2006. The new law will take the income of both parents into consideration). For one child, the amount is 17-23 percent. In practice, the average percentage for child support payments hovers around 20 percent. If a non-custodial parent makes over $75,000 a year, the percentage is lower, unless the child’s needs are extraordinary. In these cases, the income of the custodial parent is also considered.

You can modify a child support order up or down. I handle both alimony and child support modifications, and can help you with yours. In Georgia you are only allowed to modify a child support or alimony order once every two years.

Child Support Enforcement

As I stated above, child support is mandatory. Georgia takes child support recovery very seriously. If you have not been receiving the child support that is due, you have options. Contact me, and I would be happy to go over them with you. I can help you get the support that your child needs.