Child Support Helping Families Like Yours

Grand Rapids Child Support Attorneys

Helping Families Navigate Matters of Child Support Kent, Kalamazoo and surrounding Counties

Parents going through a divorce or those who have recently separated frequently have questions about their child support responsibilities. The calculation of child support is primarily based on parental income, yet the custody and visitation schedule will also significantly impact the final amount. Additionally, various costs, such as those for daycare services and health insurance, are crucial factors in setting the correct level of support.

Our Grand Rapids child support lawyers at the MI Family Law Center can help divorcing parents when child support obligations are unknown or in dispute. Although Michigan’s child support guidelines are generally strict, we can identify and potentially utilize certain exceptions that may apply to your situation. After assessing your specific circumstances, we can outline your options and strategize on how to achieve the best possible outcome. Our team is made up of experienced advocates who can leverage their familiarity with the state’s procedures to anticipate opposing arguments and prepare a strong case on your behalf.

If you are currently going through a divorce and have concerns about child support, do not wait to call (616) 227-4470 or contact us online. Se habla español.

How Child Support is Determined in Michigan

In Michigan, the process of determining child support is governed by the Michigan Child Support Formula. This comprehensive system takes into account various factors to ensure that the child support ordered is fair and adequate for the child's needs while being equitable to both parents. At its core, the formula considers the income of both parents, which encompasses wages, salaries, bonuses, and other sources of earnings. The income is calculated on a net basis – after deducting taxes and other mandatory expenses – to ensure an accurate representation of what each parent can contribute.

Another critical aspect that Michigan courts consider is the time each parent spends with the child, commonly referred to as “overnight stays.” This distribution of parenting time directly influences the computation of child support because the law assumes that the parent with whom the child resides most of the time incurs the majority of day-to-day expenses. Therefore, if one parent has significantly more overnights with the child, their child support obligations may be reduced to reflect the direct costs they cover.

The courts also take into account healthcare and childcare expenses. Health insurance premiums paid by either parent for the child and any out-of-pocket medical expenses are considered when determining the child support amount. Similarly, the cost of childcare, especially relevant for younger children, is factored into the calculation, particularly when it enables a parent to seek employment or attend education programs that would eventually benefit the child.

While the Michigan Child Support Formula provides a guideline, the courts have the discretion to deviate from these parameters under certain circumstances. These deviations might occur due to special needs of the child, significant medical expenses, or other unique factors that could affect the child's well-being. The overarching principle guiding the courts is protecting the best interests of the child, with the aim to ensure that the child’s standard of living is maintained as much as possible post-divorce or separation.

Our Grand Rapids child support attorneys understand the nuances of the Michigan Child Support Formula. We can walk you through what to expect as well as explore potential strategies for ensuring a fairer outcome that deviates from the formula’s guidelines.

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Why Choose MI Family Law Center?

What Sets Us Apart

Efficient & Informed

With decades of experience, we thoroughly understand Michigan laws and work systematically to win for you.
Family Law is All We Do

We have helped thousands of Michigan families and we're prepared for whatever your case may bring.
Respected in the Legal Community

We are well-known among judges and colleagues for our ethical practice and the legal education we provide.
Proactive Respresentation

We thoroughly investigate your case and work to anticipate the opposing side's arguments.

When Can I Request a Child Support Modification in Michigan?

In Michigan, the circumstances of both parents and children can change, potentially necessitating a reevaluation of child support orders. Understanding when you can request a modification of child support is crucial for ensuring that support arrangements remain fair and reflective of your family’s current situation.

Generally, you have the right to request a review of your current child support order once every 3 years. However, you can also request a review sooner or more frequently if there has been a “substantial change in circumstances” that would justify an adjustment of the child support amount.

Common examples of "substantial changes in circumstances" that warrant a review of a child support order include:

Significant income changes. One of the most common triggers for a review is a drastic change in the financial situation of either parent. This could mean a job loss, demotion, significant pay cut, or on the other hand, a major promotion or job change leading to a substantial increase in income. The core principle is that child support payments should be aligned with each parents' ability to pay, ensuring fairness in supporting the child's needs.
Alterations in custody and visitation. Any changes in the custody arrangement or the amount of time the child spends with each parent can necessitate a review of child support payments. For example, if the non-custodial parent starts having the child over for more overnight visits than was initially arranged, it could be argued that they are now providing more direct support, potentially lowering their child support payments.
Changes in the child's needs. Another significant factor is a change in the needs of the child, which could include medical emergencies, educational expenses, or the emergence of special needs that require additional support. These changes can dramatically affect the cost of caring for the child, and as such, child support orders may need to be adjusted to accommodate these new expenses.
Fluctuations in healthcare and childcare costs. A significant increase or decrease in healthcare costs for the child, including health insurance premiums or out-of-pocket expenses as well as changes in childcare costs, can trigger a review. For example, if a child no longer needs daycare due to starting school, this reduced expense could potentially lower the child support payment necessary from the non-custodial parent.
Changes in either parent's legal responsibilities. Changes in either parent’s legal responsibilities, such as having additional children in a new relationship, could affect their ability to pay child support. The courts may consider these new obligations when reviewing child support orders.
Permanent disability of a parent or child. If either the non-custodial or custodial parent becomes disabled and is unable to work, this could lead to a change in child support orders due to the reduced income. Additionally, if the child becomes disabled, there might be new medical and caregiving expenses to consider, potentially increasing the required support.

Our Grand Rapids child support lawyers at the MI Family Law Center can help you efficiently navigate child support modifications. Call (616) 227-4470 or contact us online to discuss your situation with us today.

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