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For many people, divorce is one of the most trying and stressful experiences in life, and when there are children involved, it can be even more difficult. For parents, the struggle to come to an agreement on child support payments can be the most conflicting aspect of the divorce. Each parent wants to make sure the children are provided for, but at the same time, each wants to know that the other is making an equal contribution. Working with an experienced child support attorney can not only make the process easier, but also ensure that a fair agreement is reached.
An experienced child support attorney, like the experts at Bailey Smith & Bailey, is your best asset as you sort through the factors that determine child support responsibilities. Michigan’s child support laws are designed to determine the obligation of each parent based on income, overnight visits, and the number of children, as well as medical and other expenses. In the past, overnight visits were not factored into the equation, but since 2008, Michigan recognizes that the more overnight visits a child spends with a parent, the lower amount of child support should be owed. When you work with an experienced attorney, he or she can help you understand this factor, as well as others that will determine your payment responsibilities.
In addition to defining your monetary contributions, a child support attorney can help you understand how long you’ll have to pay for child support. In Michigan, parents are responsible for children through the completion of high school. Once a child turns 18, and is no longer enrolled in high school, child support payments are no longer required. Additionally, Michigan does not require support for postgraduate education, although many parents make specific provisions for this in the terms of their divorce.
As with other legally binding agreements, issues can arise that affect the dispersion of child support payments. A skilled attorney will help you handle issues such as residence changes, unemployment, wage garnishment, and enforcement orders. If you are going through a divorce and are in need of legal help with child support, contact Bailey Smith & Bailey to speak with an attorney who can provide guidance and assistance every step of the way.