Child support is a legal obligation that parents or guardians have to financially support their children. In California, calculating child support payments is based on several factors, such as custody arrangements, income, and the number of children involved. However, child support can be a complex and emotionally charged issue. If you are facing child support issues in California, it is important to understand the laws and your options. In this article, we will cover how child support is calculated, what to do if you are unable to pay or your ex fails to make payments, and whether child support stops when a child turns 18.

How is child support calculated in California?



California uses a guideline formula to calculate child support payments, which considers many factors such as:

- The parents' income

- The number of children involved

- Custody arrangements

- Tax deductions

- Health insurance costs

- Childcare expenses

After considering these factors, the court calculates a child support amount that the non-custodial parent must pay to the custodial parent. The payments are typically made until the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later.

What happens if I am unable to pay child support?

If you are unable to make child support payments, you should contact an experienced family law attorney as soon as possible. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to request a modification of the child support order. If you simply stop making payments, you may face legal consequences, such as wage garnishment, a lien on your property, or even jail time.

What are my options if my ex refuses to pay child support?

If your ex-spouse or partner fails to make court-ordered child support payments, you have several options. You can file an enforcement action with the court, which can result in wage garnishment or other legal consequences for your ex. You may also be able to collect child support from other sources, such as tax refunds or lottery winnings. It is important to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law to determine the best course of action.

Do child support payments stop once the child is 18?

In California, child support payments typically end when the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the child has a physical or mental disability, child support may continue indefinitely. Additionally, if the child is still in high school at age 18, child support may continue until the child graduates or turns 19, whichever occurs first.

Child support is an essential part of ensuring that children have the financial support they need to thrive. However, child support can also be a complicated and emotional issue. If you are facing child support issues in California, it is important to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable family law attorney. At Williams, Drexler, & Mand PC, we have years of experience helping California residents with their family law matters, including child support. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the help you need.