Child Support

Florida Child Support Attorney Richard Trollope

Child support is one of the most important determinations that a court will make in a divorce or paternity action. In addition, the Court may also modify an existing court-ordered child support order if there has been a substantial change in either parent's financial situation.

Contrary to popular belief, both parents have an obligation to provide support to children of divorce or separation, not just the non-residential parent. The amount of the obligation each parent has is based upon statutory factors that take into consideration the respective income of each parent as well as the time each parent spends with the children.

At the Law Office of Richard C. Trollope, we represent clients requiring assistance and advice in family law matters relating to child support, modification of child support, and child support enforcement. If you need to determine child support issues as you begin dissolution of your partnership or marriage, are currently in the process of determining child support, or if you are having problems or issues with a court-ordered child support arrangement, we can help. Contact our Panama City law firm today to consult with a skilled child support lawyer.

Florida Child Support Overview

Florida law imposes a duty on each parent to provide financial support for their minor children. This duty exists during the marriage and continues following the divorce.

Child support obligations are calculated through the use of a statutory formula which takes into account a variety of factors such as monthly income, medical insurance, daycare expenses, and time sharing. Because the precise amount of the obligation can be determined mathematically, child support is often one of the simplest components of a family law case to resolve. However, it is vital that both parties are honest and open about their economic situations.

Child support belongs to the child only and not to the residential parent. As such, it is independent of any agreements the parents make between themselves. In a divorce or paternity action, the court will always order child support based upon the factors outlined above.

Modification of Child Support

The court may provide for modification of child support obligations if a significant change in circumstances arises. A significant change may include a change in employment, a promotion or demotion, a change in child custody or visitation rights, or other change. We assist clients with modifications so that the child support order reflects your current needs, not previous needs. We also assist with the enforcement of child support obligations.

Contact us for experienced and compassionate family law services in the Gulf Coast or Florida Panhandle area.

The Law Offices of Richard C. Trollope
333 Magnolia Avenue (Magnolia at Fourth)
Panama City, FL 32401
Phone: 850-785-3423
Fax: 850-785-0408
Email

We are proud to serve Gulf, Calhoun, Jackson, Washington, and Holmes Counties, including Panama City, Port St. Joe, Blountstown, Marianna, Chipley, and Bonifay, Florida.