Child support
Child support payments are based on uniform guidelines. These guidelines dictate the amount that a non-custodial parent pays to the custodial parent.
Relevant factors that determine child support pursuant to the guidelines are:
1. Gross income of the parties and
2. Work-related child care expenses and the cost of health insurance. These amounts are inserted into the formula and the guidelines will determine the amount.
How long is a party obligated to pay child support and how is the amount determined?
The Court pursuant to Va. Code 20-124.2 C. may order that child support be paid for any child of the parties. The court shall also order that support will continue to be paid for any child over the age of 18 who is
(i) a full-time high school student,
(ii) not self-supporting, and
(iii) living in the home of the party seeking or receiving child support until such child reaches the age of 19 or graduates from high school, whichever first occurs.
The court may also order the continuation of support for any child over the age of 18 who is
(i) severely and permanently mentally or physically disabled,
(ii) unable to live independently and support himself, and
(iii) resides in the home of the parent seeking or receiving child support.
In addition, the court may confirm a stipulation or agreement of the parties which extends a support obligation beyond when it would otherwise terminate as provided by law. The court shall have no authority to decree support of children payable by the estate of a deceased party. The court may make such further decree as it shall deem expedient concerning support of the minor children, including an order that any party provide health care coverage.
Child support payments are based on uniform guidelines. These guidelines dictate the amount that a non-custodial parent pays to the custodial parent.
Relevant factors that determine child support pursuant to the guidelines are:
1. Gross income of the parties and
2. Work-related child care expenses and the cost of health insurance.
These amounts are inserted into the formula and the guidelines will determine the amount.
What if the party ordered to pay support is not fulfilling their obligation?
The party not receiving spousal support can file a Rule to Show Cause against the party not paying support. The party not fulfilling their obligation will be summoned to Court to answer why the Support Order has been violated. Regarding Child Support the party not receiving child support can file a Rule to Show Cause against the party not paying support.
The party not fulfilling their child support obligation will be summoned to Court to answer why the Support Order has been violated. In child support matters, the Department of Child Support Enforcement can get involved and represent the child support payee.
