How does a child custody arrangement affect child support?

In Connecticut, even when two people are not married, legal issues can arise when it comes to child custody and support if the relationship ends.

When determining child support obligations, a court will certainly consider the child custody arrangement, but that is not the only determining factor. Most of the time, a court will seek to grant the parents joint custody, unless it's a rare instance when sole custody is determined to be in the child's best interests. Child support payments may still be ordered even if a parent has primary physical custody of a child. The court will also consider each parent's income and the expenses of each parent and the child. Which parent is responsible for providing the child's health care can be ordered, as well as which parent is responsible for covering any health care expenses not covered under health insurance. Finally, a child support order can include parental obligations related to the child's education. If a child has any disabilities, please keep in mind that any custody or support orders may extend to after the child's 18th birthday.

As with any custody and/or support order, changes can be sought and granted if there are any changes in either parent's living situation or income.

In any case involving child support and/or custody, whether the parents are married or not, there's a lot to consider. The Law Offices of Rashmi N. Patel serve those in the Stamford, CT; Danbury, CT; and Hartford, CT areas looking for experienced representation and help in a family law case. While it's typically in the best interests of everyone involved for the parents to come to an agreeable solution before the case goes to court, unfortunately, that is not always possible. In those cases, it's always best to have someone looking out for your rights under the law. Our divorce lawyers can manage your case, whether it involves a contested or uncontested divorce. We also have plenty of experience with both child support and child custody cases, and will seek the most favorable outcome in your case.

Even if your case seems relatively straightforward, it's always best to have an experienced divorce lawyer on your side. Call our firm for a consultation today.