Top Child Support Lawyers in Phoenix

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Top Child Support Lawyers in Phoenix

We understand what’s at stake in cases of divorce and family law. It’s not just a matter of fines and records; your happiness and security, and that of your loved ones, is on the line. With our emphasis on family law, we understand that each case is different. That’s why we listen closely to your situation and goals and take on your case as if it were our own. We leverage years of expertise and talented litigation to achieve your optimal child support outcome.

As of January 2022 the Arizona Child Support Guidelines were modified to be more descriptive and “user friendly”. Our experienced attorneys have the most up to date knowledge regarding child support factors, how to calculate child support, how to modify child support, how to enforce child support and various considerations.

Below you will find some frequently asked questions around the topic of child support in Arizona. You can always call us or fill out our form to book a free consultation if you still have questions. We’re happy to help.

Arizona Child Support FAQs

How Is Child Support Payment Determined in Arizona?

Arizona’s support guidelines approximate the amount of money a parent would have spent on a child living with both parents. The “shared income” approach calculates the proportionate share of each parent’s monthly income that should be paid in child support. Typically, the non-custodial parent will pay a proportion of his or her gross monthly income to the custodial parent.

The amount of child support is calculated using both parents’ gross incomes, the child’s medical expenses, work-related daycare expenses, any extraordinary expenses and the number of children residing in the home. The amount resulting from calculations performed under the guidelines is presumptively correct and may be deviated from only when necessary to avoid an inappropriate or unjust result in a particular case.

How Does Arizona Family Court Define Gross Income?

In Arizona, there is no limit to the number of sources from which income may be retrieved for use in calculating child support. For example, gross income includes wages, interest from investments, bank accounts and retirement accounts, capital gains, veterans’ benefits, prizes and awards, lottery and gambling winnings, insurance and workers’ compensation benefits, pensions and annuities.

Can Support Be Outlined in a Separation Agreement?

Yes, child support awards may be modified in some situations. If the agreement extended child support for a longer period than state law requires, and that was made a part of the court’s order, then a longer period of support would be enforceable. The parties may also agree to an amount above that required by state guidelines. For example, the parents may include additional support payments sufficient to provide for private schooling, college, vocational education, travel, or summer camp.

Does the Custodial Parent Always Receive Child Support?

Every parent has a legal duty to support his or her natural or adopted child. Although the custodial parent typically receives child support payments from the noncustodial parent, that is not an absolute. Although unusual, if appropriate under the unique circumstances, the judge may order the custodial parent to pay child support. Child support payments are in an amount calculated to meet the reasonable needs of the child for health, education, and maintenance, taking into consideration the incomes, child care costs, health insurance costs, and so on, of each parent.

For How Long Do Child Support Payments Continue?

The court will set a date for the termination of child support in your order. Child support lasts until the youngest child covered in the support order turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever happens first. If that child is unlikely to complete high school on time, then child support will last until the 19th birthday or anticipated graduation date. The court can order child support to continue beyond that child’s majority, into adulthood, if the adult-child has a significant mental or physical disability that prevents him or her from living independently.

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Our team delivers world-class legal services to Arizonans in need through scrupulous attention to detail, time-tested best practices, and unfailing devotion to client service. Our award-winning attorneys understand that service begins and ends with them, and we are fortunate to enjoy positive, lasting relationships with our clients, both large and small. Contact us today and learn what a difference it makes to have the right people in your corner.

Reviews

Wonderful experience knowledge and responsive. Elda and Jonathan were helpful and responsive to all my questions and concerns . I was going to so much stress Elda was great responding to my emails it never took more than 24 hours to get a respond from her. I highly recommend Elda and Jonathan to all my friends and family.

Thank you Jon for helping me with my case and making me feel comfortable during the proceedings. I appreciate the guidance you provided and legal recommendations so that I could result in the best possible outcome for my situation. I would have been very lost without your help!

I could not be happier with The Valley Law Group. My case was handled effectively and efficiently. I am very grateful for Cory Keith and the rest of the group. Thank you!

Simply put, Ryan is outstanding! ! I’ve used his services exclusively for the last 6+ years on multiple custody and visitation cases. After having gone through three less than transparent attorneys before Ryan, it was incredibly refreshing when I found him. He’s courteous, responsive and the utmost professional. Best of all, I feel that I can trust his advice explicitly. A true rarity in this industry! Bottom line: I wouldn’t consider even having a conversation with another attorney!

Ryan did a good job especially considering I didn't have an attorney most of my divorce. I would recommend him, but get him onboard at the beginning not the end.

The experience and information that was given to me was of great value. Very professional and with a personal touch. I greatly appreciate all their help. Thank you

AZ Child Support Law

We are on your side!