Divorce is always difficult, but it is especially so when there are children involved. The state of Pennsylvania divides its divorce process up so that each specific area – equitable distribution of property, spousal support, child custody and child support – is addressed separately. Out of all of these child support is arguably the most important, as it addresses the responsibility that each parent has for contributing to the child’s most basic needs. Child support may also be one of the most frustrating aspects of divorce, as failure by one parent to willingly provide financial support can create tremendous stress and animosity. If you are struggling with this issue in your divorce and need the help of a child support lawyer in Philadelphia, call Erik B. Jensen, Attorneys at Law. We will provide you with the information you need on what a child support lawyer in Philadelphia can do to help you get support for your child.
The state of Pennsylvania has attempted to create a simplified calculation for child support, with the idea being that regardless of who a child lives with on a day-to-day basis, both parents have a financial responsibility to provide support. The calculation is based upon guidelines that include each parent’s actual income as well as their earnings potential, as well as how much time the child spends within each parents’ household. Consideration is also given to whether one spouse is providing spousal support.
When calculating income, the state includes wages and salary, including monies received for commissions, bonuses and overtime, as well as interest on investments and ownership of a business, any pension income and disability or Social Security payments, unemployment or workers’ compensation payments, and entitlements for lump sum awards such as legal settlements or lottery awards. If one spouse is aware that the other is receiving cash payments that are not reflected on income statements this needs to be addressed, as does a lack of income on the part of a spouse that has earnings potential based on past income or educational or ability levels. Special considerations are made for situations for high earning families where the income falls outside of the state’s published calculations.
It is important to remember that though reaching a child support agreement can be an arduous task, once it has been achieved it is not set in stone. Modifications to child support can be requested at any time that there is a significant change in circumstance, and can be requested by either party.
Having an experienced Philadelphia child support lawyer working on your behalf is the best way to ensure that the interests of your children are being served and your rights are being protected. For representation by a child support lawyer in Philadelphia who truly cares, contact Erik B. Jensen Attorney at Law today.
Learn more from our Philadelphia Child Support Lawyer HERE.
