Des Moines Child Support Attorney
How Much is Child Support in Iowa?
Both parents have an obligation to support their child or children. Parents are also responsible to cover the costs of the child’s health insurance and medical care. The amount of child support depends on the number of children who require support and the income of both parents. Both gross and net income must be considered.
Gross income includes the following:
- Salary
- Wages
- Bonuses
- Commissions
- Retirement or pension
- Royalties
- Trust funds
- Returns on investments
- Spousal support received
Once both parents’ gross income is calculated, you must deduct state and federal taxes, Medicare and social security tax deductions to determine the net income. Other factors include how much time each parent will spend with the child.
Contact us now to schedule a free consultation with our Des Moines child support attorneys! Call (515) 200-7571 today!
Understanding the Child Support Process
Navigating the child support system can be complex and overwhelming. At The Law Offices of Mark R. Hinshaw, we believe that knowledge is power. Understanding the steps involved in establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support can help you feel more confident and prepared.
Here’s a brief overview of the child support process in Iowa:
- Establishing Child Support: Initially, child support is determined based on the income of both parents, the needs of the child, and other relevant factors. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through the necessary paperwork and ensure that your case is presented effectively.
- Calculating Support Payments: Iowa uses a specific formula to calculate child support obligations. We will help you understand how this formula applies to your situation and ensure that all income sources are considered.
- Modifying Existing Orders: If your circumstances change—such as job loss, a significant raise, or changes in the child's needs—you may need to modify your child support order. We can assist you in filing the necessary petitions and represent you in court if needed.
- Enforcing Child Support: If your ex-partner is not complying with the court-ordered payments, we can help you take legal action to enforce the order and ensure that your child receives the financial support they deserve.
We are committed to providing compassionate and knowledgeable legal support throughout this process. Let us help you secure the financial stability your child needs and deserves.
Challenging and Modifying Child Support
There are times when the final amount, or how the support is divided, is unfair to either the parent or the child. Prior to the establishment of the order, either party can request a hearing to present evidence which justifies an increase or decrease in support.
Once the child support order is established, you can request to modify the amount if order excludes the child’s medical support or adjust payments if either parent experiences a significant change in circumstances, such as losing a job or gaining an inheritance.
How Our Des Moines Child Support Lawyers Can Help
If children are involved in a divorce in Iowa, the court may order either or both parents to pay child support. Typically, child support is the source of constant confrontation. The receiving parent may have issues with consistent payment, while the paying parent may have suspicions about the money being used for the wrong reasons.
If you are experiencing child support issues or wish to modify your current payment plan, our Des Moines child support attorney can provide you with knowledgeable and trustworthy legal representation to create a reasonable child support plan and negotiate agreements which meets the satisfaction of both parties. We are capable of making sure court orders are enforced and the other parent is upholding their responsibilities.
Contact our Des Moines child support attorney to schedule your free consultation today. You can also call (515) 200-7571.
