Parents have a legal obligation to support their children financially. Whether they live with them or not, mothers and fathers must contribute to their children’s care and well-being. Before talking to an attorney about child support, reviewing the answers to the often-asked questions below might help you prepare questions regarding your specific situation.

Common Questions Parents Ask Attorneys About Missouri Child Support

How is Child Support Determined?

Child support is determined by Missouri Supreme Court Rule 88.01 and a Child Support Amount Calculation Worksheet, called Form 14. Parents must complete the form and show proof of their income, but the court has the final say on the payment amounts.

Can I Receive Child Support if I Never Married the Other Parent?

Yes. Parents who sign an Affidavit Acknowledging Paternity can request that the Department of Social Services’ Family Support Division (FSD) or a court enter a support order for the parent who does not live with the child. Acknowledging paternity means the father’s name goes on the child’s birth certificate. Additionally, it entitles the child to receive the father’s health insurance, Social Security, and veterans’ benefits, and inherit from the father’s estate. 

What if I Lose My Job?

Parents can ask the court to modify child support awards when unintentional job losses—such as company layoffs or plant closings—occur. Family law attorneys assist parents in filing petitions to increase or decrease amounts mothers and fathers receive or pay. A requesting parent must produce documentation and clear evidence justifying the change.

What If My Ex Pays Late or Doesn’t Pay?

When parents fall behind on child support payments, the FSD can collect the funds without starting a court action. Enforcement includes garnishing or withholding wages, intercepting tax refunds and unemployment payments, and imposing liens. The program’s prosecuting attorney can treat nonsupport as civil contempt or as a crime.

A custodial parent has the right to enforce the other parent’s obligation to support their children financially. At Kirksey Law Firm LLC in Bolivar, MO, skilled family law attorneys exercise compassion and professionalism as they represent parents in child support matters. For more information about this and other legal issues, see their Facebook page. To schedule a consultation with an experienced lawyer, call (417) 326-4529 or visit their website now.