Obligation of Child Support

Once custody is determined, the law in Nevada provides that both parents are responsible for the costs to care for their children. However, the parent with whom the children live is normally granted child support. Divorce lawyers call the parent receiving support the obligee and the paying parent is the obligor. The parent ordered to pay child support is required to do so until the child reaches 18 years of age. In some cases, if the child is disabled or is in high school over the age of 18, support may continue longer

A divorce lawyer can explain the calculations for determining the amount of child support and the factors the court reviews in child support amounts. The amount of support is dependent upon:

• The father’s income
• The mother’s income
• Visitation schedule
• The number of children that require support
• Daycare and schooling costs

In Las Vegas, Nevada parents may also agree on child support. This is done through a stipulation. Although the parties may stipulate to the amount of support, the court does not have to accept it and can revisit the order and change it to comply with Nevada child support laws. If the parents make an agreement outside of court, this agreement is between the parties and may not be enforceable in the future if one party fails to abide by it.

Requesting a Modification in Child Support

A Nevada court may review a child support case every three years.  However, other circumstances may make it necessary to request a modification in child support  to make changes; one of the parties experiences a 20% increase or decrease in income, job transfer, or changes in custody. In determining whether to modify a child support order, the court will consider several factors:

• Change in custody arrangements
• 20% increase in income
• 20% decrease in income
• Loss of a job
• Unforeseen medical or educational expenses
• Child becomes disabled

Significant life changes may make it possible for the court to modify your child support. Understand you must still pay the current child support until the court modifies the order. Child support is also not a “debt” that can be written off by bankruptcy. If you are struggling to make payments and there has been a significant change in your circumstances, you may be entitled to modify your child support. On the other hand, your child may be entitled to more support than you are currently receiving.

Call (702) 914-0400 to talk with Las Vegas Child Support Lawyers