As a parent who doesn’t have primary custody, you may be asked to pay child support. How much you pay is based on a few different factors. You may be unsure exactly what is expected of you, so here are a few things that you should consider.
First, remember that Louisiana has specific child support guidelines that the court follows unless it’s found that the results are unfair or not in your child’s best interests. The recommended amount of child support will be based on factors such as:
- The net child care costs
- Both parties’ gross incomes
- The number of children
- Extraordinary expenses, such as extraordinary medical expenses or schooling costs
- Health insurance costs for the child or children
A parent is asked to pay child support as a way to continue financially supporting their child. Even if they see their children half the time, child support may still be ordered.
What should you do if you’re unsure about child support requirements in your case?
Whether you may be the one who has to pay or you believe that the other parent should be responsible for child support, it’s a good idea to talk to your attorney. Your attorney can go over the state requirements and give you more information on the total amount of child support that you’re likely to pay or receive in your circumstances. Our website has more on child support in Louisiana and what you should consider as you begin to go through your divorce or start working on your custody and support concerns. The right help may make a difference as you move forward.
