Huntsville Child Support Lawyers

Compassionate and Knowledgeable Legal Counsel in Madison, Limestone, Morgan Counties

Child support issues arise in a variety of family law cases, including divorces, paternity actions, and modifications. The attorneys at Rebekah L. Graham & Associates have been working with parents on child support related disputes for years. They can handle all types of questions about child support, including how the courts calculate child support, what to do if the paying parent has missed their payments, or what to do if one has lost the ability to pay a child support obligation.

For compassionate and experienced legal support in Huntsville, contact Rebekah L. Graham & Associates online to schedule a initial consultation.

Calculating Child Support

Alabama courts usually order child support based on a formula that is referred to as the “Child Support Guidelines” or “Rule 32 Child Support” (as the guidelines are set out in Rule 32 of the Alabama Rules of Judicial Administration). However, the guidelines are not appropriate in every situation and deviations from the guidelines can be made in a variety of situations. 

An experienced child support lawyer can better help you estimate the appropriate child support amount based on your income and situation. The state guideline can be confusing to navigate. Rebekah L. Graham & Associates can help you better visualize the potential outcomes.

Enforcing and Modifying Child Support

If a parent is not paying child support as ordered, the other parent has the right to take legal action for enforcement. One common way to enforce a child support order is by filing a contempt petition. 

Parents (both the parent paying child support and the parent receiving child support) have the right to request modification of an existing child support order if there is a substantial and ongoing change in circumstances. Naturally, circumstances change over time, so it is common for there to be a need for modification of child support every few years. 

Examples of such changes can include:

• one parent obtaining a significantly higher paying job;
• the parents modifying their custody arrangement significantly; 
• one parent losing their job;
• a child reaching the age of majority.

Alabama courts presume modification to be appropriate if child support was initially calculated pursuant to the guidelines and the difference between the existing child support award and a new calculation according to the guidelines varies by more than 10%. 

If you have questions about petitioning for child support, ensuring that the amount you are ordered to pay is appropriate, or enforcing or modifying an existing order, Rebekah L. Graham & Associates can help. They have assisted parents regarding child support issues for years and take a client-oriented approach, focusing on your goals and interests.

How Can a Child Support Attorney Help Me?

A child support attorney can provide valuable assistance in various aspects of child support matters, ensuring that your rights and the best interests of your child are protected. 

Here's how a child support attorney can help you:

• Understanding Child Support Laws: Child support laws can be complex and vary from state to state. An attorney specializes in family law and is well-versed in the specific regulations in your jurisdiction. They can explain the applicable laws, guidelines, and procedures to you.
• Legal Representation: An attorney can represent you in court, advocating for your interests during child support hearings or legal proceedings. They will present your case, cross-examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf.
• Mediation and Negotiation: Child support attorneys can facilitate negotiations and mediation between parents to reach an agreement on child support terms, which can often be a more amicable and efficient solution.
• Understanding Tax Implications: Child support can have tax implications, and an attorney can provide guidance on how child support payments may affect your tax situation.
• Complex Cases: In cases involving high income, complex financial assets, or shared custody arrangements, an attorney can address the intricacies of child support calculations and ensure that the child's best interests are met.
• Legal Guidance: Throughout the process, a child support attorney can provide you with legal advice and help you make informed decisions that align with your objectives and those of your child.
• Document Preparation: Attorneys will draft and review legal documents related to child support, ensuring that they are accurate, compliant with the law, and protect your rights.

In child support matters, having a qualified attorney by your side can make a significant difference in achieving a fair and equitable resolution. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your interests, and help you ensure that your child receives the financial support they need.

Schedule a consultation with our firm online to get started today.

Helpful Resources

• Alabama Child Support Enforcement
• Madison County Child Support Services