Miami Child Support Attorney
Child support is a crucial aspect of family law, designed to ensure that children receive the financial support they need from both parents, even after a divorce or separation. In Florida, child support is determined by reference to state guidelines, the parents’ financial circumstances, and the best interests of the child. Even with a statutory formula to guide the process, there are still many ways parents can disagree over the proper amount of support.
Attorney Daniel Umbert of True North Law, P.A., is a former Assistant Attorney General in Broward County assigned to litigate child support matters on behalf of the Florida Department of Revenue. He additionally spent several years handling child support enforcement as an Assistant State Attorney in Miami-Dade County. If you find yourself in a dispute over child support in Miami-Dade or Broward County, attorney Daniel Umbert is the lawyer you want to guide you, advocate for you, and help you achieve an outcome that is fair to you and your children. See below for an overview of child support in Florida, and contact True North Law, P.A., to speak with a knowledgeable and experienced Miami child support attorney.
Determining Child Support in Miami
Florida uses a specific formula to calculate child support, which considers several factors, including the income of both parents, the number of children to be supported, the cost of health insurance and any extraordinary medical expenses, and childcare costs. The combined monthly income of both parents plays a significant role in determining the amount of child support. This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, commissions, and other sources of income. For business owners, the self-employed, or those who are unemployed or underemployed, pinning down income from all sources can be challenging or complex. True North Law, P.A., can help you with your income reporting as well as ensuring that your child’s co-parent is reporting all income accurately.
Once all information is gathered, the process of calculating child support requires completing a 15-page document known as the Florida Child Support Guidelines Worksheet. This worksheet considers the net income of both parents, subtracts allowable deductions, and applies the state’s guidelines to arrive at the final support amount. But the process isn’t over yet. The court may still adjust the amount based on specific circumstances, such as:
- The child’s needs, including education, special needs, and extracurricular activities.
- The standard of living the child would have enjoyed if the parents had remained together.
- The parenting plan and time-sharing arrangement between the parents.
Our experienced child support lawyer can represent you in any motion or hearing where you may be seeking or opposing a change from the guidelines support amount. We know the law inside and out and understand the evidence and arguments that will yield a successful outcome in court.
Modifying and Enforcing Child Support Orders
Even after a child support order has been put in place, circumstances can change, necessitating a modification of the child support order. Either parent can request a modification if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as:
- A significant change in income for either parent.
- Changes in the child’s needs, such as medical conditions or educational requirements.
- Changes in the time-sharing arrangement.
To request a modification, the parent must file a petition with the court, providing evidence of the substantial change in circumstances. If contested, the court will hold a hearing to determine whether a modification is appropriate, and both parties will have an opportunity to present their case to the judge.
When a parent fails to meet their child support obligations, enforcement actions can be taken to ensure compliance. In Miami, enforcement measures may include:
- Income Withholding: Automatically deducting child support payments from the non-custodial parent’s paycheck.
- Suspension of Licenses: Suspending the non-custodial parent’s driver’s license, professional licenses, or recreational licenses.
- Tax Refund Interception: Seizing federal or state tax refunds to cover unpaid child support.
- Contempt of Court: Holding the non-compliant parent in contempt of court, which can result in fines or imprisonment.
True North Law, P.A., attorney Daniel Umbert has extensive experience handling Florida child support matters in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. No matter which side of a support order you are on, we can provide zealous and effective representation designed to protect your rights and ensure a favorable outcome for you and your children.
Experienced Legal Assistance With Child Support in Miami
Navigating the complexities of child support can be challenging. A skilled Miami child support attorney at True North Law, P.A., can provide valuable assistance, ensuring that your child’s financial needs are met and that your rights are protected. Our firm can help with:
- Calculating the appropriate amount of child support.
- Filing petitions for modification or enforcement.
- Representing you in court hearings and negotiations.
- Providing guidance on Florida child support laws and guidelines.
For help with child support in Miami, contact True North Law, P.A., at 305-999-5523. Our firm is committed to your success and helping your family through difficult times.
