Child Support

San Jose Child Support Attorney

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Myth: The more visitation time I have, the less child support I will have to pay.

Fact: While this is true, our lawyers discourage clients from seeking greater child custody just to reduce their child support payments. All child custody decisions should be based on the best interests of the children. Choosing a custody arrangement simply to reduce child support payments hurts the child. You may have valid reasons to reducing support, which should be considered in granting, denying, or modifying support.

Many people who are going through a divorce feel resentment about paying child support. However, it's important to remember that you aren't divorcing your children. At The Law Office of Patricia M. McKinnie in San Jose, we will explain California's child support guidelines and show you how payments are calculated.

Most judges and lawyers in California use the DissoMaster program to calculate the amount of child support payments you are required to pay. This amount is based on your income, the other parent's income, the amount of time your child lives with you, and other factors relating to your particular case.

Did you know?

• Child support payments can be modified based on changes of circumstances of the parties.
• If you are unmarried, child support payments can determined through a paternity action.
• Child support can be ordered in the dissolution of a domestic partnership, if there are children.
• If you are not receiving the child support payments you are owed, our lawyers can obtain payments and money owed through an enforcement action.
• Child support payments usually continue until the child turns 18 (or 19 if the child is still in high school).

Free Consultation: San Jose attorney Patricia M. McKinnie offers a free 30-minute initial consultation to discuss your child support matter.