Under family law, parents must take care of their children financially. While this is a given for couples who live together because both parties contribute to the household, complications can inevitably arise when parents separate or divorce. In such scenarios, the court will order a child support arrangement, which you can learn more about below.

Common Questions About Child Support

How is child support determined?

Tennessee courts calculate child support obligations using mandated guidelines that consider both earnings and total parenting time. If the party who will be receiving the payments has sole custody, the formula requires only the non-residential parent’s total income. On the other hand, if the parents share custody, the formula requires both of their incomes. Generally speaking, the parent who has the children for fewer nights in a shared arrangement will be responsible for making payments. If the arrangement is a 50/50 split, the higher earner will pay the lower earner.

Do judges ever deviate from the guidelines?

Judges are allowed to deviate from the state’s child support guidelines at their discretion. For example, if the non-residential parent covers 100% of the children’s tuition at an expensive private school, the judge may use the formula but reduce the resulting figure to arrive at a fair obligation. It’s also possible to modify existing arrangements if you can prove a significant change in circumstances.

Which earnings does the formula use to determine child support obligations?

Tennessee’s child support guidelines require one or both parents’ gross income. This includes wages, bonuses, severance pay, fringe benefits, alimony, capital gains, rental income, disability benefits, judgments, inheritances, and even lottery winnings. A knowledgeable family law attorney can help you complete the forms, so you don’t overlook any applicable sources of income.

When does the obligation to pay child support end?

Parents must continue paying child support until the child turns 18 or graduates high school—whichever comes second. There are a few exceptions to this deadline, as obligations can end early for parents of children who emancipate themselves, and they can extend for children who are disabled.

If you want to implement or modify a child support order, turn to Castles Family Law for help. Located in Brentwood, TN, this firm represents clients throughout Nashville and Franklin. Led by attorney Lauren Wilson Castles, who’s been in the legal field for nearly a decade, they’re equipped to resolve even the most contentious disputes. To request a free consultation, reach out on her website or call (615) 804-6086.