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Handling Family Law Issues

Financial Support Of Children Throughout Georgia

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

At the Atlanta, Georgia, law office 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 if there is disagreement between the parties. In either case, child support must generally be within 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.

Determining Child Support Payments

Pursuant to 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 their total gross incomes. The obligation 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 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.

We’ll Answer Your Child Support Questions

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.