Child Support

Financial Support of Children Throughout Georgia

The Georgia Legislature completed significant changes to the child support laws that went into effect on January 1, 2007. These changes were made in response to a growing concern of providing adequate financial support to children after a divorce.

At the Atlanta Georgia law firm of Jody A. Miller, we represent parents dealing with child support issues. Parties can agree to child support through a marital separation agreement, or the court will award child support in the event of a disagreement between the parties. In either case, the child support must generally be within the State guidelines and any deviations carefully addressed and justified. We help to make sure that you understand all your rights and obligations regarding child support issues. Contact us for more information about child support awards.

Pursuant to the recent changes in Georgia's child support guidelines, child support is calculated using an income shares model. This model establishes a total child support obligation for both parents based on the total gross income of both parents. The obligations of each parent is then prorated in relation to their respective incomes. Factors such as the cost of health insurance for the children, work related child care, extraordinary health care and educational expenses, and extracurricular activities are also taken into account in the income shares model.

Even this new method of determining child support may not reflect the true financial needs of a child. The court may deviate from this model in special circumstances that require additional resources.

Child support calculations can be a complex process. If you have questions, get answers by contacting us at the law practice of Jody A. Miller. We represent parents throughout Georgia including locations such as Carrolton, Decatur, Lawrenceville, Cartersville, and Marietta.