Chula Vista, CA, Child Support Lawyer

Generally, child support is a relatively straightforward issue that is based upon a strict formula involving the incomes of both parents, the number of children being supported, how much time each parent spends with the children involved, as well as many other factors. These child support guidelines are used whether the court is establishing child support or it is evaluating a request for child support modification. Although the calculation of child support is straightforward, an experienced family law attorney can still affect the amount of child support by manipulating the factors which are used to perform the calculation.

If you have questions about California child support laws, or would like to discuss your child support case with an experienced attorney, call 619-409-7900 to schedule a free initial consultation.

When dealing with child support matters, it is important to hire an experienced family law attorney who can help make sure that guideline child support is calculated favorably to you. This means hiring an experienced child support lawyer such as myself.

I am Victor Mordey, an experienced Chula Vista, California, child support attorney. In addition to my over 20 years of experience handling tough family law issues for clients, I worked as a supervisor for the Department of Child Support Services at the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office. This gives me a unique perspective as to how child support is calculated and how it can be influenced. As your attorney, I work carefully to ensure that child support truly reflects your situation and the needs of your child.

Child Support Modifications

Child support never seems to be the right amount — whether you are ordered to pay child support or whether you are ordered to receive child support. Sometimes, courts allow parents to request a modification of child support only when there is a significant change in circumstances. Other times, no significant change in circumstances is required. In either case, courts look to the following factors, among others:

• Whether a parent’s income significantly increases or decreases
• Whether a parent’s responsibility in caring for a child changes (modifications in child custody or in the percentage of parenting time)
• Significant increase or decrease in health insurance costs
• Whether the law requires that a significant change in circumstances must be shown
• Other significant changes in financial circumstances or life circumstances

If you believe you are entitled to a review of your case, or if the other parent is requesting a modification, I can answer your questions and provide effective legal representation.

Read about how to use the interplay between Family Law and Bankruptcy to your advantage.

Answering Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Child Support

When our clients are navigating child support matters, they often have a lot of questions. As we represent you, we can answer your questions while building a legal strategy tailored to your situation. Some of the questions we frequently get from our clients include topics like how child support is calculated, when modifications can be made, and how enforcement actions are handled.

Can parents agree to a child support amount without going to court?

Yes, parents in California can agree on a child support amount without court intervention, but this agreement must be approved by a judge to be legally enforceable. The court will review the agreement to ensure it meets the child’s needs and doesn’t fall below the state’s guideline amount without a valid reason. Having a lawyer review your proposed agreement is crucial to protect your rights and ensure it is properly filed with the court.

What happens if a parent fails to pay a child support order?

Failing to pay court-ordered child support can lead to serious consequences for the non-paying parent. Enforcement actions may include wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, liens on property, and even suspension of a driver’s or professional license. In severe cases, a parent may face contempt of court charges, which can result in fines or jail time. A child support attorney can help you seek enforcement or defend against these actions.

Does getting remarried affect my child support payments?

Remarrying by itself does not directly change the amount of child support you pay or receive for a child from a previous relationship. However, the income of a new spouse is not used to calculate support, but it can be considered by the court to assess your overall financial situation and ability to contribute. Significant changes in your household expenses due to remarriage could potentially be a factor in a support modification request.

Is health insurance coverage considered part of child support?

Yes, California law requires both parents to provide health insurance for their children if it is available at a reasonable cost. The cost of health, dental, and vision insurance premiums is factored into the overall child support calculation. Typically, one parent will be ordered to maintain coverage, and the expense is divided between the parents as part of the support order.

Contact My Chula Vista Office

Call lawyer Victor Mordey at 619-409-7900. Messages left after business hours will be promptly returned. Contact us to schedule your appointment. I speak, read, and write Spanish fluently for the benefit of my Spanish-speaking clients.

I offer cost-effective representation including payment plans and low retainers. Credit cards accepted.

Learn how you can use the interaction between family law and bankruptcy to your advantage.

My firm is a debt relief agency. I help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.