Grand Rapids Child Support Attorney Works for Fair Arrangements
Representation focused on best interests of children and parents
When a couple divorces, they are required to share in the support of their children based on their financial needs and resources. Unfortunately, parents often disagree on their obligations in these matters. At The Fiorletta Law Group, PLLC, you'll find compassionate and determined assistance on your child support issues. Whether you pay or receive support, I will aggressively protect your rights while working diligently for solutions that serve the best interests of your children. As a Grand Rapids child support attorney, I work tirelessly to deliver the results you depend on for your child's future.
How does Michigan determine child support payments?
The process for calculating child support in Michigan is two-fold. Courts must first apply the Michigan Child Support Formula, which takes into account such factors as:
- Both parents' income
- The number of overnights the child(ren) spend with each parent annually
- The number of children to be supported
- Insured health care costs and extraordinary healthcare expenses
- Childcare costs
By inserting data into the formula, the court arrives at a basic child support amount.
If a party believes the amount is unfair or inappropriate, that party can submit a Uniform Child Support Deviation Addendum, asking the court to increase or decrease the amount. Reasons for requesting a deviation can include:
- A child special medical or educational needs
- The minor status of a parent
- The incarceration of a parent
- A parent's inability to pay due to debt accumulated jointly with the other parent or extraordinary medical expenses
In deciding on a deviation request, a court can consider other relevant factors in the best interests of the child, such as the standard of living the child would have enjoyed if the parents had stayed together. For example, if the court believes the children should continue in private school for the sake of stability, it can include private school tuition in the support calculation.
Arriving at a fair child support result
Another path to a fair support arrangement is for the parents to negotiate an agreement and present it to the court for approval. When negotiations stall, many couples are able to reach an agreement through mediation, working with a neutral third party to arrive at an acceptable compromise. As a family law attorney, I have used mediation with great success for child support and other divorce issues.
If no agreement can be reached, you may have to litigate child support issues before a judge. Litigation is often necessary if you believe the other parent is not fully reporting income and assets that could be considered in the calculation. I provide aggressive representation in contested matters, using the discovery process to demand financial information while bringing to the court's attention all relevant facts.
Modification and enforcement of Michigan child support
The state of Michigan is fully supportive of parents receiving child support and courts exercise strong enforcement powers to compel payment. However, when a parent is legitimately unable to meet support payments, he or she may request a modification of the order from the court. In my practice, I assist parties on both sides of these issues.
Contact a devoted Michigan lawyer for a free child support consultation
The Fiorletta Law Group, PLLC in Grand Rapids represents parents throughout Michigan in disputes over child support. Call 616-717-1334 or contact me online to schedule a free consultation.
