Child Support
At Moisant Law Firm, we understand the importance of financial security for your children. Child support is a crucial aspect of ensuring their well-being after a divorce or separation. The laws can be complicated, you will need an experienced family law attorney by your side. Samantha Moisant , the attorney, is a mom herself so she understands how important it is to have your child's needs met with financial support. We are dedicated to helping you navigate the child support process and secure a fair and sustainable outcome for your child.
How is child Support Determined in Louisiana
Louisiana uses child support guidelines to determine how much financial support each parent should contribute toward their children.Child support is not based solely on the income of the parent who may ultimately be ordered to make a monthly payment. Louisiana follows an income shares approach that considers the financial resources of both parents.
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Generally, the child support calculation begins by looking at each parent's adjusted gross income. The parents' incomes are combined, and each parent's percentage share of the combined income is determined. The applicable Louisiana child support schedule is then used based on the parents' combined adjusted gross income and the number of children involved.
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However, determining the correct amount of income to use is not always simple.
A parent's gross income may include more than a regular paycheck. Depending on the circumstances,
income considered for child support may include:
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Salary and wages
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Bonuses and commissions
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Self-employment or business income
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Certain recurring monetary gifts
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Rental income
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Interest and dividends
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Certain benefits or allowances
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Other sources of income recognized under Louisiana law
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When one or both parents own a business, work for themselves, receive irregular compensation, or have income from several different sources, determining the appropriate amount of income for child support can become significantly more complicated.
What are the Penalties in Louisiana for Not Paying Child Support?
Failure to pay child support can have serious consequences, including:
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Contempt of Court: The court can find the parent in contempt, resulting in fines or even jail time.
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Wage Garnishment: The court may order the employer to withhold a portion of the parent's wages to pay child support.
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Tax Refund Interception: The state can intercept your tax refunds to apply them towards unpaid child support.
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Suspension of Licenses: Driver's licenses, professional licenses, and hunting/fishing licenses can be suspended for non-payment.
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Can a Child Support Order Be Modified ?
Yes, a child support order can be modified under certain circumstances. These may include:
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Significant change in income: If a parent experiences a substantial increase or decrease in income, a modification may be appropriate.
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Change in childcare costs: A documented increase or decrease in childcare expenses can be a factor.
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Change in health insurance costs: Changes in health insurance premiums can be considered for modification.
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Change in child's needs: As a child's needs evolve, the child support order may need to be adjusted.
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Speak With a New Orleans Child Support Lawyer
Whether you are seeking child support, facing a request for support, going through a divorce with minor children, or believe an existing child support order needs to be changed, Moisant Law Firm can help.
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Our family law attorneys represent parents throughout New Orleans and Orleans Parish in child support, child custody, divorce, and related family law matters.
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Contact Moisant Law Firm to schedule a consultation with a New Orleans child support lawyer and discuss your options.
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Call us at 504-317-1685 or fill out our online contact form.
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We are located in Metairie, Louisiana and serve the surrounding areas.