When it comes to divorce, parents need to know their rights and responsibilities regarding their kids. In Hilliard, OH, the child support attorneys at Don Roberts Law Offices advise parents throughout Hilliard, Columbus, Dublin, and Franklin counties about their obligation to pay and right to receive child support. Here, they answer some commonly asked questions about this subject.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by a Child Support Attorney

1. Under Ohio Parental Rights Law, Who Must Pay Child Support?

A child’s biological parent, a man legally established as the child’s natural father, a person who adopts a child, or a parent who acknowledged paternity on a child's birth certificate or in probate court is legally bound to pay child support. Additionally, married people who are parents have a legal duty to support their children.

2. How Long Does the Support Obligation Last?

Generally, support obligations continue until the child is 18 years old, married, or living on their own. However, if the child is still a full-time high school student after age 18, the support responsibility continues. Parents’ obligations may continue when they have children older than 18 years who have a mental or physical disability and cannot support themselves.

3. How Do the Courts Decide How Much a Parent Must Pay?

The Ohio Supreme Court sets child support guidelines the courts must apply. Judges use special worksheets to calculate the amount of support a parent must pay.

4. Do Judges Have Any Discretion in Setting the Amount?

Certain exceptions allow judges to find the guidelines unjust or rule the amount is not in the best interests of the child. Under these exceptions, judges must produce evidence to support their decisions.

If you are seeking child support or contesting payment, contact Don Roberts Law Offices in Hilliard, OH. Learn more about parental rights law on the firm’s website now. Call (614) 777-4500 to schedule an appointment with a child support attorney.

Don Roberts Law Offices is based in Columbus, Ohio, but serves clients throughout the State of Ohio. Our office in Hilliard, Ohio, is convenient to Dublin, New Jefferson, Bexley, Westerville, New Albany, Hilliard, Grove City, Reynoldsburg, Gahanna, and other Franklin County municipalities. Our office is located in central Ohio and is just a short drive to/from anywhere in Ohio. Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only and should not be construed to be formal legal advice or the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. See our profile at Avvo.com or Martindale.com.