Child Support

Berkeley Divorce Attorney for Child Support

Child support is determined by a formula which considers the parents’ earnings, including the earning capacity of a parent who is not working, and other factors relating to the children and their needs.

The courts use computer software to determine the amount of child support based on the statewide formula.  You can get an idea of how the formula works at http://www.childsup.ca.gov/Resources/CalculateChildSupport.aspx.  However, please keep in mind that there are many factors which affect calculation of the guideline child support amount.  Changing even one of these factors can produce a very different result.  An experienced family law attorney can help you identify the most important factors in your case.

If the only issue in your case is the determination of child support, or child support arrears, you might contact the Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) in your county.  DCSS helps parents who wish to establish child support or collect child support arrears.  There is no charge for their service.

In Alameda County contact: http://www.acgov.org/css/

In Contra Costa County contact: http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/index.aspx?NID=1374