Judges Generally Follow Federal Child Support Guidelines

Although judges do have some leniency when it comes to establishing child support amounts for a divorcing couple, they are influenced by federal guidelines. Most states have some guidelines in place that take into account federal guidelines created by the Child Support Enforcement Act. Each state has its own system that it has in place to help judges decide child support amounts. As a result, child support amounts and guidelines can vary greatly from state to state. However, all states take certain basic concepts into consideration when deciding child support.

A judge must consider the financial needs of the child at hand. No two child support cases are ever alike because no two children are alike. The judge will need to consider any special needs that the child may have, such as schooling costs, medical costs, insurance costs and basic food and clothing costs. Once this has been calculated, the judge will then look at the incomes of both parents to see who is able to best support the child. In need of child support? Work with a family law attorney in your area so you can seek the payments you need.