Child Support

Establishing Fair and Appropriate Child Support

Parents have an obligation to financially support their children. In Florida, child support is generally determined under statutory guidelines, but the calculation can become complicated when parents have substantial or fluctuating income, own businesses, receive bonuses or other compensation, or disagree about income and expenses.

Barbra represents parents seeking child support as well as parents who will be paying support. Barbra's goal is to make sure the court has accurate financial information and that the resulting child support obligation appropriately reflects Florida law and the circumstances of the family.

How Is Child Support Calculated in Florida?

Florida's child support guidelines begin with the income of both parents. The calculation may also take into account the parenting plan and time-sharing arrangement, health insurance, child care expenses and other factors.

Income for child support purposes can extend beyond a basic salary and may include income from sources such as:

Florida's guideline amount is presumptively the appropriate child support amount, although courts may deviate from it when permitted by law and justified by the circumstances.

High-Income and Complex Child Support Cases

Child support can become significantly more complicated when a parent is a business owner, executive, professional or high-income earner.

A tax return or paycheck may not always provide a complete picture of actual income. Closely held businesses, retained earnings, business-paid personal expenses, bonuses, deferred compensation and other forms of compensation may require closer analysis.

When necessary, Barbra works with forensic accountants and other financial professionals to evaluate income and financial records and present an accurate picture to the court.

Modification and Enforcement of Child Support

A child support order may sometimes be modified when circumstances materially change. Changes in income, employment, health insurance, child care expenses or other qualifying circumstances may support a request to increase or decrease support.

When an existing child support order is not being followed, court enforcement may also be necessary.

Whether you are seeking support, paying support, requesting a modification or attempting to enforce an existing order, it is important to understand your rights before taking action.