Understanding Child Support in Florida

Child support is a crucial aspect of family law that ensures children receive the financial support they need from both parents. Florida's child support guidelines aim to provide a fair and consistent method for calculating support obligations. Here's an overview of how child support is determined and modified in Florida.

Child Support Guidelines

Under Florida law, the child support guideline amount is the presumptive amount that a court must order for a minor child. This applies in both initial proceedings and modifications of existing support orders. The guideline amount may be adjusted by up to 5 percent above or below the standard amount based on various factors, including:
 

• The needs of the child

• The age and station in life of the child

• The standard of living of the child

• The financial status and ability of each parent

• If a deviation from the guideline amount is considered, the court must provide a written explanation detailing why adhering to the guideline amount would be unjust or inappropriate. In cases where children are spending substantial time with both parents, adjustments to the guideline amount may be required to reflect these arrangements.

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Modification of Child Support Orders

A modification to an existing child support order may be sought if there has been a substantial change in circumstances. Florida law stipulates that the difference between the current obligation and the guideline amount must be at least 15 percent or $50, whichever is greater, for a court to consider a modification.

The Department of Revenue will review support orders and seek modifications if the support amount differs by at least 10 percent but not less than $25 from the guideline amount, without requiring proof of a change in circumstances.
 

 

Determining Income for Child Support

 

Gross Income: For child support calculations, gross income includes various sources, such as:

• Salary or wages

• Bonuses, commissions, and overtime

• Business income

• Disability benefits

• Workers' compensation

• Pension and retirement payments

• Social Security benefits

• Rental income

• Royalties and trust

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Imputed Income: If a parent is unemployed or underemployed voluntarily, the court may impute income based on recent work history, qualifications, and prevailing community earnings. This is not applied if the unemployment is due to physical or mental incapacity or if the information is unavailable. The imputed income cannot be based on outdated records or levels of income that a party has never previously earned.

Allowable Deductions: To calculate net income, the following deductions are subtracted from gross income

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• Taxes (federal, state, and local)

• Federal insurance contributions or self-employment tax

• Mandatory union dues and retirement payments

• Health insurance payments (excluding coverage for the minor child)

• Court-ordered support for other children

• Spousal support from previous marriage

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Combining Parental Incomes

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The net income of each parent is calculated and then combined to determine the total available income for child support purposes. This combined net income forms the basis for calculating the child support obligation in accordance with Florida’s guidelines.
 

Get Expert Help with Child Support

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Navigating child support calculations and modifications can be complex. Our experienced attorneys are here to help ensure that child support is calculated fairly and that your rights and your child’s best interests are protected. Whether you're establishing a new support order or seeking a modification, we offer expert guidance through every step of the process.

 

 

We  advocate for the best interests of children to ensure a secure future for your children after a divorce. The attorneys at JLP Legal provide strong legal counsel and determined advocacy. We handle matters including: 

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• Child support -- Parents share the responsibility of supporting their children. Our attorneys will seek an arrangement in which you receive or pay an equitable amount of the financial support required to raise your children.

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• Child custody and visitation -- We advocate for parenting time to be divided in a way that grants a child stability and safety and preserves your parental bond. We assert our clients' rights to make decisions about how their children are raised.

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• Adoption -- A biological parent's change of heart or an immigration problem can turn the joy of adoption into a nightmare. We assist with the complex legal process of adoption so you can add to your family.

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• Juvenile delinquency -- If your child ends up in trouble with the law, their future and your parenting rights may be threatened. When authorities interfere with your rights, a zealous advocate can help to cut the bureaucratic red tape.

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In all of these matters, we work tirelessly to protect your children's welfare and your rights as a parent. 

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When the welfare and security of your children are at stake, you want a strong legal advocate to fight for their best interests. If you face the devastating prospect of losing time with your children or forfeiting other essential parental responsibilities, a knowledgeable attorney can assert your rights to raise your child in a healthy, thriving environment. At JLP Legal, we represent clients in child custody disputes.  We are committed to protecting your ability to maintain a meaningful relationship with your child. 

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In many cases, Children are best served when parents maintain a cordial relationship. The structured process of mediation can help you both set aside anger and hostility and focus on the crucial issues concerning your children. Mediation can be a highly effective tool for preserving stability and peace in your home during the turbulent process of divorce: it reduces the stress of child custody conflicts and puts important child-rearing decisions in your hands, rather than in the hands of the court. Our attorneys are skilled at maneuvering negotiations toward agreements that protect your child's best interests and your parental rights. 

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If your child's other parent refuses to compromise or expresses hostility toward you during negotiations, or if they pose a danger to your child's well-being, you must fight for your child's best interests in court. Our skilled and persistent attorneys will work to make sure that your children are protected and your parental rights are secure. The attorneys at JLP Legal we represent clients in matters related to: 

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• Timesharing arrangements

• Visitation rights

• Grandparent visitation

• Modification of custody 

• Enforcement of orders

• Decisions related to religion, education and upbringing of the child​

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The uncertainty of litigation often compounds the stress and upheaval already present in your lives at this time. But with our assertive attorneys by your side, you can feel confident that your children are protected and your parental rights are secure. 

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For a free case evaluation or to discuss your child support concerns, contact us today. Our team is dedicated to providing clear, compassionate, and effective legal support to help you achieve a favorable outcome.

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