What Child Support Covers in Arizona

Scottsdale firm helps parents understand child support guidelines

At Clark & Schloss Family Law, P.C., we help parents understand what Arizona child support covers and how awards are calculated. You might be concerned about whether accurate information is being used to determine the initial rate or you may be looking to modify an existing order because of a change in circumstances. You might also require assistance collecting payments owed to you. No matter what your particular needs entail, our experienced Scottsdale family lawyers are ready to help.

How is child support determined in Arizona?

Arizona courts use the “income shares” model, which sets child support rates based on each parent’s proportion of the combined parental income. Should one parent earn twice as much as the other, he or she could be responsible for the baseline child support amount. Adjustments can be made to the overall obligation if one parent pays the premiums for the health insurance covering the youth. Child-care costs and other significant expenses might be considered as well. By working with a knowledgeable child support lawyer in Scottsdale, you can gain an informed perspective on what you’ll pay or receive.

What is and is not supposed to be covered

The goal of child support laws is to make sure that both parents make fair financial contributions to meet the expenses associated with raising children. Payments are to cover core needs such as food, shelter and clothing but they may also provide fees for extracurricular activities and health care costs that might not be covered by health insurance. However, a judge cannot allocate what child support payments go towards. That is in the discretion of the parent who receives child support.

How long does child support last?

Child support must be paid until a son or daughter turns 18 years old. If the child is still in high school at that time, payments are required until he or she graduates or turns 19. Arizona law does not compel parents to fund their children’s college tuition. However, mothers and fathers who are breaking up may wish to formalize a plan detailing how higher education costs will be addressed.

Modifying child support

A job loss, medical crisis or shift in your child’s residence might justify a change in child support terms. If you’re thinking of modifying child support due to one of these reasons or another unexpected shift in relevant circumstances, we can help. Typically a modification can be obtained if the result would shift at least 15 percent in either direction under the state’s child support formula. Whether you think an adjustment is appropriate or you wish to oppose a revision requested by your co-parent, our firm provides honest counsel so you can make an informed decision about how to proceed.

You may also want to inquire about how to enforce child support in Arizona.

Contact a knowledgeable Arizona child support lawyer to set up a consultation

Clark & Schloss Family Law, P.C. provides knowledgeable, personalized counsel to Arizona clients on a full range of child support issues. For a consultation at our Scottsdale office, please call 602-789-3497 or contact us online. We are located on Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard.