When going through a divorce, loving parents can almost always agree on the importance of their children’s well-being. However, child support can be an area of confusion. It’s meant to ensure little ones have the financial means they need to thrive. It’s essential you address this topic with your attorney. Find out what parents in Connecticut need to know below.

A Short Guide to Connecticut Child Support

1. Child Support Doesn’t Cover Every Expense

Some parents labor under the delusion that child support will cover all of a kid’s costs. In fact, this money is only meant to go toward basic expenses, such as food, clothing, and housing. Paying child support doesn’t absolve you from putting money toward expenses like extracurricular activities. 

2. Payments Can Be Modified

Your original agreement isn’t set in stone. You can request modifications for a number of reasons, like if you lost your job. Connecticut courts will also consider modification requests if your attorney can demonstrate that your current payments are off by at least 15% according to the state’s predetermined formula for calculating child support.  

3. Child Support Is Possible With Shared Custody

A common argument for child support is driven by the idea of uneven physical custody. In Connecticut, however, it’s possible to request money even if you share custody. In such cases, the parent with the higher net weekly income pays the other parent.

4. You Have to Pay Until They Turn 18

In some states, child support continues until the child turns 21. In Connecticut, support ends when the child turns 18 or, if they are still in high school, when they turn 19 or graduate. This is an excellent example of how laws vary between states.

Always consult a local attorney regarding family law issues. For help in Litchfield County, CT, look to The Law Offices of Conti, Levy and Salerno, LLC. These lawyers have more than 75 years of combined experience providing aggressive representation that prioritizes their clients’ interests. They know that family law issues are emotionally charged and will handle your case with compassion. Find out about their practice areas online. For an appointment with an attorney, call (860) 482-4451.