Child support is one of the most critical issues that arise in family law courts. These orders ensure one parent isn’t left to bear the full economic burden of raising a child on their own. While every case is unique to its circumstances, Connecticut law provides specific guidelines for establishing and maintaining child support orders. Below is an overview of what parents can expect.

Child Support Calculations

Connecticut calculates child support payments based on the income share model. Using this method, the court will consider each parent’s net weekly income and match it to the state’s predetermined support guidelines to determine how much the non-custodial parent should pay. It’s then up to the court’s discretion to order a different amount if one parent has substantial financial resources available, the child has extraordinary healthcare or education expenses, or one parent has extraordinary medical, disability, or visitation expenses.

Modification of Support Payments

Once the court has ruled on a child support order, it can only be modified if the parent requesting a change can show there has been a substantial change in circumstances. For example, one parent getting a significant promotion or losing their job, a child’s medical emergency, or the parents adjusting how much time each one spends with the child. Otherwise, in Connecticut, support orders last until the child turns 19 or graduates high school, whichever occurs first.

Order Enforcement

Those who fail to make their court-ordered child support payments may face a variety of consequences, including additional fines, real estate liens, driver’s license suspension, decrease in credit score, and even jail time. The Bureau of Child Support Enforcement is available for Connecticut parents who need help enforcing a support order. Still, in cases where the paying parent has become seriously delinquent, it’s best to speak with a family law attorney about taking legal action.

Whether you’re seeking child support or you’ve been requested to pay, The Law Office and Mediation Center of Jeannine M. Talbot in Torrington can help you navigate the intricacies of Connecticut family law. With more than 20 years of experience in this area of practice, she can explain your rights and options for obtaining a fair support order. Call (860) 482-9004 to schedule a consultation, or visit her online to learn more about the cases she handles.