Legal Help in Determining Child Support Payments
Child support includes provisions for basic child support, medical and dental care, and day care expenses. If you have children from a prior marriage, that child support is also considered. − Burnsville family law attorney Merlyn Meinerts
Once child custody has been established, child support is typically calculated according to Minnesota child support guidelines. Those guidelines changed significantly in January of 2007. In the past, child support was based on the net income of the payer. Today, child support is based on the combined gross income of both parties.
At the Meinerts Law Office, P.A. in Burnsville, Minnesota, we will guide you through the child support calculation and help you determine how much support you are obligated to pay or entitled to receive. We serve clients throughout the south metro area of the Twin Cities, including Eagan, Apple Valley, Burnsville and Shakopee.
Child Custody has an Impact on Child Support
Under Minnesota's new child support guidelines, the amount of child support you pay will depend on the percentage of time (meaning overnight visits) your child spends with you. There are three categories:
- Category one: 0 percent to 10 percent
- Category two: 10 percent to 45 percent
- Category three: 45 percent to 50 percent
A typical dad who has visitation every other weekend, one night during the week, every other holiday and a longer visit in the summer will be in category two. A dad who has joint physical custody will be in category three.
Child Support can be Adjusted
Child support is subject to a cost of living adjustment (COLA) every two years. Payments can also be adjusted whenever there is a change in either parent's financial circumstances that would change child support by 20 percent or more. Under Minnesota law, the parties can require a review of financial circumstances every six months.
When changes in circumstances require a modification or enforcement of child support, lawyer Merlyn Meinerts can help you through that process as well.
Free Consultation With Lawyer Merlyn Meinerts
Give your child support issues the careful attention they deserve. Call Burnsville lawyer Merlyn Meinerts at 952.236.4562 or fill out our simple contact form for a free initial consultation.
