Child support is mandatory in Georgia. That’s because both parents must contribute to the financial well-being of their children, regardless of their relationship status. In simple terms, child support is about ensuring that children have access to the financial resources they need even if their parents are no longer together.
While child support is indeed mandatory in Georgia, there are various nuances and details that every parent should be aware of. An experienced Atlanta child support lawyer can help you understand your obligations and answer any questions you have.
Who Must Pay Child Support?
The noncustodial parent typically pays child support. This is the parent with whom the child does not primarily reside. This financial contribution covers various expenses, including housing, food, clothing, education, and healthcare.
The ultimate goal of the child support calculation in Georgia is to ensure that the child’s standard of living is maintained as closely as possible to what it would have been if the parents were still living together. In Georgia, both parents must pay to care for their children, regardless of the parents’ relationship status.
How is Child Support Calculated in Georgia?
Child support calculations in Georgia are guided by a specific formula designed to ensure fairness and equity in determining the financial contributions of each parent. This formula considers several crucial factors, including the income of both parents, the number of children involved, and various other factors.
Income of Both Parents
One of the primary components of the child support calculation is the income of both parents. By considering the income of both parents, the calculation aims to distribute the financial responsibility fairly, ensuring that each parent contributes according to their ability to pay.
The Number of Children Involved
Another pivotal factor in the calculation is the number of children who require financial support. Naturally, a family with more children will have higher overall expenses and more child support.
Various Other Factors
Child support calculations in Georgia also consider a range of other factors to tailor the support obligation to each family’s unique circumstances. Some of these additional factors may include:
- Childcare Expenses: If either parent incurs childcare expenses due to work or other commitments, these costs may be factored into the child support calculation.
- Health Insurance Costs: If a parent provides health insurance for the child, the cost of premiums and coverage may be considered in the calculation.
- Extraordinary Expenses: Certain extraordinary expenses, such as medical bills, educational expenses, or special needs costs, can also impact the child support obligation.
- Parenting Time: The amount of time each parent spends with the child can affect the calculation. More time spent with a noncustodial parent may lead to adjustments in the child support amount.
The Role of the Georgia Child Support Commission
One of the Georgia Child Support Commission’s primary functions is establishing child support guidelines. These guidelines serve as the framework for calculating child support obligations in the state.
However, when the cost of living increases, the Georgia Child Support Commission must adapt and change the guidelines to account for the changing economy. As part of its mandate, the commission regularly reviews and updates the child support guidelines to keep them in line with current economic conditions.
What Happens If My Ex Fails to Pay Child Support?
The state of Georgia takes non-payment very seriously to protect the child’s best interests. Failure to pay child support in Georgia can result in serious consequences, including fines, wage garnishment, imprisonment, and a damaged credit score.
Securing child support payments from your ex-partner is crucial to ensuring your child’s well-being. If your ex has failed to pay child support, you may need to contact a divorce attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process and take necessary actions to enforce the child support order.
If your ex consistently fails to meet their child support obligations, you may need to file a contempt of court motion. This legal action can result in fines, wage garnishment, intercepting tax refunds, suspending driver’s licenses, or even imprisonment for the non-compliant parent.
Reach Out to Our Atlanta Child Support Attornneys
The experienced Atlanta child support lawyers at Hobson & Hobson, P.C. can help you understand your child support obligations and protect your parenting rights throughout the process. We can even help you modify an existing child support order if your life or circumstances change.
Contact us today at (770) 284-6153 or conveniently fill out our confidential contact form. By doing so, you can schedule a consultation to explore all of your legal options.
At Hobson & Hobson, P.C., we want to simplify the divorce process. You and your family have already been through enough. Let us take the burdens off your shoulders. Call us today!
Attorney Sarah Hobson at Hobson and Hobson, P.C. are powerful advocates for those who fight for better futures for those going through divorce and custody law matters.
