When a couple with children decides to divorce, many issues must be worked through and settled. Child support is an area which is often fraught with conflict, and the establishment of an acceptable child support agreement is essential, in order to provide the children of separating and/or divorcing couples with the stable and secure future that their parents want for them. In such circumstances, parents must put to one side any animosity they may feel for each other and focus on what is in the best interests of their child.

Helpful Links: Are you looking to modify an existing Child Support order? Or are you looking to determine  Child Custody or Modifications to existing Child Custody orders?

 

In Arizona, both parents play a vital part in determining the nature of child support. The part each parent plays is equally important, irrespective of which party gains physical custody, and the outcome of any application for joint custody. Courts have the right to order one or both parents to contribute a reasonable amount towards the financial support of their child (Title 25, Chapter 3, Article 2, Section 25-320). Furthermore, the circumstances surrounding the divorce and the rights and wrongs suffered by the respective parents do not impact the court’s decision regarding a child support order.

What is the Appropriate Amount of Child Support?

In order to determine the appropriate amount of child support in each individual case, the courts refer to child support guidelines that the Arizona Supreme Court adopted, in accordance with Sections 651-669B of the 42 United States Code. The guidelines include information on the following:

• The child’s financial needs and resources.
• The custodial parent’s financial needs and resources.
• The financial resources and needs of the non-custodial parent.
• The standard of living the child was accustomed to prior to the divorce proceedings or separation, and the likely standard of living of the child, had the marriage endured.
• The mental and physical health of the child.
• The child’s educational needs.
• The child’s need for medical provision, particularly health insurance and, if applicable, case medical support.
• Any suspiciously large financial outlays by either party, or an attempt to hide disposal of jointly owned assets.
• The proportion of time spent in the care of each parent, and the associated expenses.

If you want to resolve child support issues in an effective, straightforward manner, expert help, in the shape of an experienced divorce attorney, is essential. Cantor Law Group is well established in the field of divorce law – we have been AV® Rated by Martindale-Hubbell®, listed in the Bar Register of Pre-Eminent Lawyers® and have over 70 years of combined experience .

Our customer satisfaction levels are consistently high, as we pride ourselves on providing an honest, reliable service, tailored to suit each client’s individual circumstances. At our initial free consultation, our expert child support attorney will meet with you to gain a comprehensive overview of the circumstances surrounding your case, use this to inform you of your legal rights, and help you to decide on the best way forward, in the interests of both you and your child.

Nothing is more precious than your child’s future. To ensure your child’s financial security, call us at (602) 254-8880 or email the Cantor Law Group, and schedule a free consultation with one of our Family Law Attorneys. Our initial appointment will confirm you are on the right track – you’ll never regret consulting the best.

Click the following link if you are looking for information about how to enforce Child Support orders in Arizona family court.