Legal Focus: Child Support

CHILD SUPPORT
I am frequently asked how much child support I will receive in a divorce proceeding. In Ohio, child support is based upon a formulaic calculation which takes into consideration a number of factors, including each spouse’s gross income, local taxes, daycare expenses, and the cost to provide healthcare by one party or the other for the benefit of the children. The formula is used in all cases where combined income is $150,000 or less. When combined income is over that amount, the amount of child support is discretionary with the court.

Either party can asked for a deviation from the child support guideline amount, whether it be an increased amount or a lesser amount. There are many factors that the court would consider, including the family’s overall expense structure, extra-ordinary expenses associated with a child or children such as medical expenses or private schooling, or other factors which might make the formulaic income number inaccurate.

Under Ohio law, child support continues until the child turns eighteen (18) years of age and graduates from high school, but no longer than nineteen (19) years of age. By law child support is deducted directed from the payor’s pay check, and the employer then sends the money to Columbus, and thereafter the money is sent to the payee.

Child support can be modified in the future if there is a change in the financial circumstances of the parties. The law requires a ten percent (10%) change in the court-ordered support before support can be modified.

This article is for general informational purposes only, is not for the purpose of providing legal advice, and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. You should consult with an attorney to obtain advice as to your particular issue or circumstances.