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Minneapolis Child Support Attorney

child support lawyer

Twin Cities Child Support Attorneys

Child support should be about your children. Child support covers three types of expenditures: basic support, medical care and child care. The amount of parenting time each parent has with the children is also relevant.  Child support ends when the child turns 18 or graduates from high school unless the parents agree on different parameters, or the child has special needs. Our lawyers at our Minnetonka, Minnesota law firm help people with any matters related to determining, receiving or paying child support.

Issues Related to Child Support

We help clients work through matters such as:

  • Application of the Minnesota Child Support Guidelines and determining Income for Child Support purposes. In cases where a parent is self-employed or a business owner, our lawyers are experienced in the complexities of determining the appropriate income for child support obligations.
  • Utilization of creative ways of meeting your children’s financial needs
  • Modifications of child support awards after a substantial change in circumstances occurs
  • Paternity and the obligation to pay child support
  • Custody and parenting time and their effect on child support
  • Enforcement of child support awards
  • Contempt actions

When is an Attorney Needed for Child Support?

A Minnesota family law attorney may be needed for child support in various situations. If a parent is not fulfilling their child support obligations or is refusing to pay the agreed amount, an attorney can help enforce the child support order or seek a modification. Additionally, if a parent believes they are paying too much in child support, an attorney can assist in seeking a modification of the child support order. If the parent’s income has significantly decreased or if the child’s needs have changed, a modification may be necessary. An attorney can also be helpful in cases where paternity is in question or when child support needs to be established for a child born out of wedlock. In general, if there are complex legal issues involved in a child support case, or if one parent is not cooperating, a child support attorney can provide valuable legal advice and representation.

How is Child Support Calculated?

Child support calculations can vary depending on the state and specific circumstances of the case. However, in general, child support is calculated based on a formula that takes into account factors such as the income of each parent, the number of children, the parenting time arrangement, and any other child-related expenses such as medical costs or daycare expenses. The formula is often based on guidelines set by the state, and a judge or other legal authority may use these guidelines to determine the appropriate amount of child support to be paid. It’s important to note that child support is meant to provide for the basic needs of the child, such as food, clothing, and shelter, and does not cover extracurricular activities or other expenses.

What Can I Do When Child Support Isn’t Paid in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, if child support payments are not being made, there are several steps that can be taken to enforce the court order. One option is to request assistance from the Minnesota Child Support Enforcement Division (CSED), which has the authority to enforce child support orders through a variety of means, including wage garnishment, tax intercepts, and suspension of driver’s and professional licenses. Additionally, you may be able to seek a contempt of court order against the non-paying parent, which could result in fines or even jail time if the parent continues to refuse to pay. It’s important to consult with an experienced Minneapolis family law attorney to discuss your options and determine the best course of action in your specific situation.

Family Law Attorneys Who Focus on Your Children

If you and the other parent cannot agree on child support, or a modification of child support, often times these issues can be resolved through alternative dispute resolution (ADR) techniques such as collaborative practice or mediation. We have found that clients are usually able to resolve their differences by focusing on the needs of their children during ADR sessions. The attorneys at Beckman Steen & Lungstrom, P.A. will work with you in resolving your child support issues whether through settlement, or if settlement is not possible, they are well prepared to present your case in a courtroom.

Minnesota Support Enforcement & Modification Lawyer

Modification of child support orders can occur throughout the time the child is receiving support if there is a change in circumstances such as changes in employment, changes in daycare or health care costs, or changes in parenting time. Enforcement of child support orders can be accomplished in different ways, including contempt actions. Our attorneys are qualified to discuss these matters with you whether you are the party receiving or paying child support.

If you have questions regarding your child support situation, contact us for a free 30 minute consultation online or call our Minnetonka, Minnesota law firm at 952-938-3411 to speak with one of our experienced family attorneys today.