Jacksonville Child Support Lawyer
Legal Guidance for Child Support in Florida
When parents divorce or raise a child apart, child support plays a vital role in maintaining stability and meeting the child’s basic needs. A trusted Jacksonville child support lawyer can guide you through the process and help secure a fair support arrangement.
Under Florida law, both parents share the legal responsibility to provide for their child’s financial needs – regardless of marital status.
These situations can be complex, but the right Jacksonville child support attorney can reduce stress and protect your long-term interests.
At Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, we provide clear, strategic legal support for calculating, modifying, or enforcing child support orders.
Our focus is on safeguarding your rights while prioritizing your child’s stability and well-being.
What Is Child Support?
Under Florida law, both parents are legally required to contribute to the financial support of their children. This obligation exists regardless of whether the parents are married, divorced, or never lived together.
When Is Child Support Ordered?
Child support is generally ordered when one parent has primary child custody and the other has less parenting time. In most cases, the non-custodial parent is responsible for making payments to help cover the child’s needs.
Covered Expenses
Support payments help cover basic and recurring costs such as housing, food, clothing, healthcare, childcare, and education. These contributions are meant to ensure a consistent, stable environment for the child.
How Child Support Is Calculated in Florida
Child support in Florida is calculated using a formula outlined in Florida Statute 61.30. The court uses this formula to ensure payments are fair and consistent, but adjustments can be made when special circumstances apply.
A knowledgeable Jacksonville child support lawyer can help ensure the numbers are accurate and reflect your situation.
Factors That Determine Child Support Payments
Several elements are considered in calculating child support, including:
- Each parent’s income
- Number of overnights the child spends with each parent
- Childcare costs
- Health insurance expenses
- Special needs or other extraordinary costs
Why Choose Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite
Focused Family Law Experience
With decades of combined experience and three board-certified attorneys, our team is equipped to handle even the most challenging child support cases.
Local Knowledge, Proven Results
As a Jacksonville-based team, we understand how Duval County courts operate and use that knowledge to your advantage. We’ve helped hundreds of local families resolve support issues efficiently and effectively.
Strategic, Personalized Support
You don’t have to navigate child support issues alone. Call (904) 619-1386 today to discuss your options with a Jacksonville child support attorney who puts your goals first.
Child Support Modifications
When Can Child Support Be Changed?
Under Florida law, child support can be modified when there’s a substantial change in circumstances. This includes shifts in income, time-sharing, or the child’s financial needs.
Examples of life changes under Florida law:
- Job loss or a significant promotion
- Change in custody arrangements
- New medical or educational costs for the child
Legal Process for Modifications
A Jacksonville child support attorney at Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite can help you petition the court for a modification. We gather financial records, file the necessary documents, and advocate on your behalf to adjust the support order based on current needs.
Jacksonville Attorneys for Modifications of Child Support & Custody ➔
Enforcing Child Support Orders
Missed Payments & Non-Compliance
When a parent falls behind on court-ordered child support, the consequences can impact both the child and the receiving parent. Florida law provides legal tools to hold non-compliant parents accountable and recover unpaid amounts.
Enforcement Options
If support is not paid, the court may order:
- Wage garnishment through the employer
- Contempt of court actions, including fines or jail time
- Driver’s license suspension until payments are made
At Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, we help clients enforce child support orders by filing motions, collecting documentation, and presenting your case in court. We’ll guide you through each step and work to secure the support your child is owed.
Extended Child Support & Non-Standard Support Cases
Support After Age 18
In Florida, child support typically ends at age 18, but there are exceptions. Support may continue if the child is still enrolled in high school with a reasonable expectation of graduation before turning 19. It may also be extended indefinitely if the child is physically or mentally disabled and dependent.
Voluntary Agreements or Deviations
Parents can agree to non-standard arrangements, but the court must approve them.
Florida courts may also allow deviations from guideline calculations in high-income cases or situations involving extraordinary needs.
An experienced Jacksonville child support attorney can help ensure your agreement meets legal standards and serves the child’s best interests.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does child support last in Florida?
In most cases, child support ends at age 18. However, support may continue until the child graduates if they’re still in high school with a reasonable expectation of graduating before age 19. In cases involving a disabled child, support can extend beyond 18 if the child is dependent.
Can I change my child support order later?
Yes. Florida law allows modifications when there’s a substantial change in circumstances, such as income changes, parenting time adjustments, or increased needs.
What if my ex isn’t paying child support?
You have legal options. Courts can enforce orders through wage garnishment, contempt of court, or license suspension to collect overdue payments. Call us at (904) 619-1386 today and we can help you decide what to do.
Do I still have to pay if I lose my job?
Yes, payments are still legally required until the order is modified. You should file for a modification immediately to avoid falling behind.
Can we waive child support?
Possibly. Parents can request a waiver, but the court must approve it. A judge will only agree if the child’s best interests are fully protected and both parties understand the financial impact.