Rockville Child Support Lawyer

Understanding Child Support in Maryland

Child support is a court-ordered payment from one parent to another to cover a child’s basic needs, such as housing, food, clothing, education, and healthcare. Typically, the non-custodial parent (who spends less time with the child) pays child support to the custodial parent, who has primary physical custody. 

How Is Child Support Determined in Rockville?

Maryland uses a standardized formula called the Maryland Child Support Guidelines to calculate child support amounts. These guidelines consider the following factors. 

• Each parent’s income: The gross incomes of both parents are a critical determinant in the calculation.
• Custody arrangements: The time the child spends with each parent influences the support amount.
• Child-related expenses: Costs such as daycare, health insurance, and extraordinary medical expenses are also factored in.
• Number of children: The total number of children being supported affects the calculation.

The guidelines are designed to create a fair and consistent approach. However, deviations from the guidelines may occur in exceptional circumstances, such as when a child has unique needs or a significant disparity in parental income exists. Our attorney can help you understand how these factors apply to your case.

Modifications of Maryland Child Support

Life circumstances can change, and child support orders are not set in stone. A parent can petition for a child support modification if circumstances change significantly. 

Common reasons for modification include:

• A substantial increase or decrease in either parent’s income.
• A change in custody arrangements.
• A change in the child’s needs, such as medical or educational expenses.

You must file a motion to request a modification with the court, providing evidence to justify the change.