Attorneys With Extensive Knowledge of Child Support
In nearly every Illinois divorce involving children, the noncustodial parent is ordered to pay child support. Understanding child support is very important for future planning, and in some cases, it can influence how you proceed in other aspects of your divorce. We encourage you to contact us today to arrange an initial consultation that includes the information you need about child support. With proper financial documentation and we are able to calculate that amount during your initial consultation.
Guideline-Based Child Support in Illinois
Like most other U.S. states today, Illinois has guidelines in place that allows child support to be determined by utilizing an established formula in most divorce cases. If the payor is a W-2 employee with an established, consistent income, a scale and formula may apply. However, a host of special circumstances and mitigating factors can be the cause for departure from these guidelines. These may include:
- A noncustodial parent who is self-employed
- Substantial income from sources other than employment
- Children who are disabled or have special needs
Child Support Orders Can Have Long-Term Consequences
Working proactively with a knowledgeable family lawyer is important for custodial parents who want to maximize what they receive for the benefit of their children. It can be equally important for those who want to make certain they do not pay more than necessary. The consequences of not contesting an unfair child support demand or proposal can be serious and long term, since:
- Most child support orders remain in effect until children are 18 or they graduate from high school.
- Illinois has aggressive child support enforcement measures in place.
- Any change to your child support order will require filing for a postjudgment modification, typically citing a substantial change in circumstances such as a job loss or job change.
For additional basic information, visit our Child Support Information Center. Call (630) 573-8800 for legal counsel on child support issues.
The processes we follow at Bennett Law Firm, LLC include a very informative and interactive initial consultation on your divorce case — or other family law issues. Please contact us for straightforward answers to your child support questions and other information that will help you plan for the future.
