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(801) 254-9450 (801) 254-9450 Navigating the complexities of child support laws can be overwhelming. At Carr | Woodall, we specialize in providing comprehensive legal assistance for families in South Jordan facing child support matters. Our experienced family law attorneys understand the importance of ensuring the financial well-being of your children while protecting your rights and interests.
With our dedication, we strive to guide you through the legal process with compassion and efficiency. Call Carr | Woodall today to schedule a meeting with our South Jordan child support lawyers.
Child support is a court-ordered financial obligation typically paid by one parent to another to assist with the costs of raising a child. These costs may include food, clothing, housing, education, and medical expenses. Child support ensures that both parents contribute financially to their child’s upbringing, regardless of their marital status or living arrangements.
In Utah, child support calculations are based on the state’s guidelines, which take into account various factors, including:
The court assesses both parents’ gross incomes, including wages, salaries, bonuses, and other sources. This evaluation includes each parent’s earning potential to ensure a fair assessment.
The number of children requiring support will affect the total amount of child support.
The time each parent spends with the child, known as custody arrangements, significantly influences the child support determination.
It is natural for parents who pay child support to wonder how long this obligation lasts. In general, a parent is required to continue making support payments until their child reaches the age of 18. A court can also end this obligation early if the child is emancipated.
However, in some situations, these payments could be ordered to continue. Specifically, a child who is disabled and remains dependent on a parent could be entitled to support payments beyond the age of 18.
If you are receiving child support from your co-parent, those funds are exempt from any income calculations made by the state or federal government. That means receiving these payments will not increase your tax bill or place you in a higher bracket.
Additionally, making these payments does not offer benefits. The paying parent cannot deduct these costs from their taxes or otherwise use this obligation to reduce their own income tax obligation.
Under Utah law, there is no built-in grace period or late payment term. In addition, the paying parent is not entitled to miss a certain number of payments before action can be taken against them. If that person fails to pay by the agreed-upon date—even once—they are not only in violation of the court order but could also be subject to enforcement actions.
Usually, the party receiving the notice will receive a delinquency notice with guidelines on how to catch up. However, with the help of a South Jordan child support attorney, these issues may be resolved without the need for litigation.
In addition to child support orders concluding on their own, parents also have the opportunity to seek a modification. However, the judge overseeing the case will not alter or amend the terms of an order without good reason.
Either parent has the right to pursue a change in the support order, either increasing or decreasing the amount paid. The courts will generally only grant these requests when there is evidence that it is necessary due to a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
In addition to evidence of shifting circumstances, a judge must also determine whether or not modifying the original order is in the child’s best interests. Without meeting this element, a motion to modify must be denied.
It may not be immediately apparent if the change in your life is enough to qualify for a modified order. Thankfully, a child support lawyer with Carr | Woodall could review your South Jordan case and advise you of your options.
Whether you are involved in divorce proceedings or an ongoing support dispute, having a legal professional on your side is vital. The legal team at Carr | Woodall is here to serve as your advocate and help you fight for the outcome you deserve.
Let a South Jordan child support lawyer answer your questions, advise you of your rights, and lead the way throughout the legal process. Contact us as soon as possible to discuss your case during a private consultation.