Finding Solutions for Financial Support of Children
Child support can be a contentious issue in divorce, particularly when there are unresolved animosities or questions about true income. Child support is primarily driven by a formula. The role of an attorney is to make sure that support is fair and based on accurate data.
The Santa Monica family law attorneys of Trabolsi & Levy handle child support, spousal support and all facets of divorce and child custody. We protect the interests of parents in the initial determination of child support, and we also represent either side in post-divorce modifications of support orders.
Calculation of Child Support in California
Child support is not automatically awarded when you file for divorce. We get involved at the very beginning to file a request for child support, for temporary spousal support and for attorney's fees.
The California family courts rely upon a complex formula to determine child support, based on financial data from both parties, including but not limited to:
- Number of children
- Monthly income of each parent
- Tax deductions
- Percentage of custody time
Our lawyers strive to make sure that the child support calculation reflects the complete picture of the parties' financial situations. For example, we may need to determine the actual income of a spouse who is self-employed or paid in cash. We may need to calculate an average income if a spouse's income fluctuates seasonally or year to year. We may need to impute income if a spouse is intentionally underemployed or unemployed. We may need a forensic accountant to uncover a source of income not reported to the court.
Los Angeles Child Support Calculations Attorneys
Once we have an accurate gauge of income and the other statutory factors of the child support calculation formula, we can give clients an honest assessment about the child support payment they can expect to pay or receive.
Our Santa Monica child support attorneys handle all aspects of divorce and family law, serving the San Fernando Valley, greater Los Angeles and Southern California. Call us at 310-584-7714 or toll free at 888-871-6245 or contact Trabolsi & Levy online to arrange a confidential consultation.
