The Law Office of Merril S. Chin in Peabody, Massachusetts, represents parents in child support matters. We have decades of experience in assisting families with child support disputes, and we can help you too.
Child Support Determinations
Massachusetts has guidelines for determining who will pay child support and in what amount. These guidelines take into account health insurance, daycare costs, and other supplemental orders paid. Though guidelines exist, other factors can affect a child support order, and in certain circumstances, the Court may depart from the child support guidelines, particularly if a child has specific medical or educational needs. Child custody arrangements and alimony awards can also affect child support.
Child Support Modifications
Sometimes, it may become necessary to modify child support. The loss of a job and subsequent loss of income, for example, maybe one of those times. A change in the financial needs of the child may also warrant a child support modification. Additionally, the child support guidelines are reviewed every three years and often change. Our lawyers can help you explore your options. We will keep your child’s interests in mind while working with you to seek an amount that is appropriate for your income and ability to pay. Our lawyers can help you explore your options. We will keep your child’s interests in mind while working with you to seek an amount that is appropriate for your income and ability to pay.
Child Support And College Contributions
In addition to child support in a divorce or a paternity case, a judge has the ability to order parents to contribute to their children’s undergraduate college expenses. Depending on the parties’ incomes, the amount of child support may change to reflect such contributions. Sometimes these issues are addressed within divorce/paternity agreements, and sometimes parents need to return to Court to resolve them at or near the time their children enter college.
PRACTICE AREAS
