CHILD SUPPORT
PRACTICE AREAS
BOSSIER CITY CHILD SUPPORT ATTORNEY
Legally, parents are required to financially support their children until they are adults, which in Louisiana is considered to be when the child turns 18 years old. If a parent fails to make his or her payments according to schedule, they face serious penalties under the law. Every state possesses its own child support system with enforcement offices that oversee these payments. If payments are not being made, the office will work in conjunction with the family court to penalize the parent responsible for not paying. These penalties may include the suspension of a business or professional license, the revocation of driver’s or other recreational licenses, or even jail time for the non-paying parent.
As an experienced attorney based in Bossier City, LA, Michael J. Vergis understands the complexities of child support cases and the importance of providing exceptional representation to both sides of the case. With his in-depth knowledge of Louisiana child support laws, he is equipped to handle a wide range of issues related to child support, including the calculation of support amounts, modification of existing orders, enforcement of support orders, and establishment of paternity. Whether representing a custodial parent seeking support or a non-custodial parent contesting a support order, Mr. Vergis works tirelessly to ensure that his client’s interests are protected and that the best possible outcome is achieved. With a compassionate and understanding approach to these delicate matters, Michael J. Vergis is the attorney you can trust to guide you through your child support case.
To get in touch with the Bossier City child support lawyers at the law firm of Michael J. Vergis, give us a call at (318) 698-3724 or complete our online intake form today.
How Does Child Support Work in Louisiana?
Child support orders are typically entered during or after the parents of the child receive a divorce. In the event that the parents were never married, the child support order is based on how the custody is arranged and the parent’s income. Regardless, both parties are responsible for financially supporting the child.
When physical custody is split, child support allows a balance of the expenses in proportion to each parent’s time spent with the child. It is typically the parent with whom the child lives most, also known as the domiciliary or custodial parent, who receives the child support payment.
How is Child Support Determined?
The amount of child support awarded to the domiciliary parent depends on multiple factors. Largely, it is based on the need of the child (or children) and the ability of either parent to contribute financially. Things that must be taken into account include the number of children the two parents share, the combined monthly adjusted gross income between the two, and the type of custody agreement that is in place.
The state of Louisiana uses what is called the “income shares model” to determine child support obligations. This model is based on the amount of financial support that the child would receive if the parents were still together and living in the same household. The amount that is calculated from this will be divided proportionally in relation to each parents’ income.
What Does Child Support Cover?
Child support is meant to cover everyday living expenses for a child. Broadly speaking, everyday living expenses may refer to things such as food, clothing, and housing. In addition to living expenses, it may also include coverage for expenses such as health care or insurance, schooling, and extracurricular activities.
Here are some more specific examples of expenses that are generally intended to be covered by child support:
- Groceries
- Daycare costs
- School supplies
- School lunches
- School uniforms or sports uniforms
- Dental work
- Pediatric/GP care
- Physical therapy
Many of the abovementioned expenses are set in fixed monthly amounts, while things such as medical emergencies or orthodontic work may come up unexpectedly and for only certain amounts of time. In these cases, the parents will need to divide up the cost accordingly in proportion to their individual incomes.
How Long Does Child Support Last?
According to Louisiana law, both parents are generally required to support their children until they reach the age of 18. However, there is an exception. The length of child support payments may be slightly extended if the child is a full-time student in secondary school or equivalent, has not reached the age of 19, and is dependent on either parent.
How to File for Child Support in Shreveport / Bossier City, LA
Louisiana residents seeking child support generally must file through the court in the parish in which they live. To ensure things go as smoothly as possible, it is extremely helpful to include a private attorney in the process. LA lawyers specializing in child custody and child support will be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding your legal issue. They can also help you better understand how your income will be calculated and divided as well as determine an appropriate payment amount that gives your child the support they need, among many other things.
Contact The Law Offices of Michael J. Vergis for an Experienced Child Support Lawyer Today
A Bossier City family law attorney can assist legal issues concerning child support issues in a number of ways. He is also prepared to help with child custody, property divisions, spousal support, and other related practice areas. Whether you need help determining a fair child support arrangement, want to lower your child support amount, or seek to collect overdue payments, Michael J. Vergis can help. Attorney at Law Michael J. Vergis provides families with unmatched legal services in a competent, efficient, and caring manner. With every move he makes in your case, you’ll feel comfortable knowing he has both you and your child’s best interests at heart. For help from our dedicated Shreveport-Bossier child support attorneys, contact our law office by calling 318-698-3724 today or complete the contact form on our website to request your consultation.
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