Child Support

Franklin Child Support Lawyer

At McGill Law, we understand that confronting the complexities of Tennessee child support can be challenging for parents. Child support is a court-ordered financial contribution from the non-custodial parent to the custodial parent towards the expenses of raising their child. It is a vital issue in Tennessee divorce, legal separation, and for unmarried parents where paternity has been established.

In Tennessee, child support is not just an obligation but a fundamental right of the child to ensure their well-being and support their needs, including housing, food, education, and healthcare. It allows a child to benefit from the financial support of both parents, as the child would have if the family unit remained intact.

Our firm can help you navigate the guidelines and calculation of child support in Franklin, the counties of Williamson and Davidson, and throughout the Middle Tennessee region. We have resolved thousands of legal matters and bring 10 years of practice to your case. Our firm handles child support in divorce, post-divorce, and paternity cases.

Arrange for a free initial consultation with our Franklin child support attorney by calling us at (615) 398-6453. You can also reach us using our contact form.

How Is Tennessee Child Support Determined?

In Tennessee, the non-custodial parent, meaning the parent who does not have primary physical custody of the child, is typically responsible for paying child support. This support is calculated based on state guidelines. The calculation uses the “income shares model,” which considers the income of both parents.

This model aims to ensure that the child receives the same proportion of parental income they would have received if the parents lived together.

Several factors are considered in this calculation, including:

The income of both parents
The number of days the child spends with each parent
Health insurance expenses
Other children the parents have a responsibility to support

When calculating child support, "income" encompasses many financial resources. It is not limited to wages but includes salaries, commissions, bonuses, dividends, pension and retirement plans, and even certain Social Security benefits. Gifts, inheritance, and capital gains can also be part of a parent's income. This comprehensive approach ensures that the calculation reflects the true financial capability of each parent to support their child.

The Complexity of Child Support Calculations

The process of calculating child support can become complicated for several reasons. First, accurately determining the income of self-employed parents or those with fluctuating income levels presents challenges.

Furthermore, additional expenses such as healthcare, education costs, or special needs of the child must be factored into the support amount. Disparities in parental income and living standards can also complicate the calculations, as can disagreements over the amount of time the child spends with each parent.

These complexities illustrate why it's vital to have skilled legal representation to ensure the child support arrangement is fair while still meeting the child's needs.

Deviations from Child Support Calculations in Tennessee

Courts can deviate from the calculated amount under state guidelines under certain circumstances. These circumstances can include a child’s extraordinary medical expenses, special educational needs, or if the standard calculation would be unjust or inappropriate in a particular case.

Can Parents Create Their Own Child Support Agreement?

Parents can agree on a child support amount different from the guideline calculation, but the court must approve their agreement. The court must ensure that the agreed amount is in the child's best interests.

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Why Choose McGill Law?

We've Helped Thousands of Families

Clear Direction & Strategy

From the first meeting to the last, you will have a personalized path forward, and we'll walk you through every step.
Aggressively On Your Side

Working with Michele McGill means compassionate, respectful, and fearless advocacy on your behalf.
Personally Invested in You

You're never just a number to us - we work closely with you to ensure that every decision is in your best interest.
Experienced Litigator

With thousands of clients served, we are well-prepared to fight for you in court if your case demands it.

We Can Help Parents Seek Fair Child Support Payments

Whether you are the potential recipience parent or the potential payor of child support, McGill Law can help protect your best interests while maintaining legal standards in this matter.

We can help you understand your rights and obligations concerning child support, calculate the expected amount of support, negotiate agreements, and represent your interests in court.

Whether you're establishing a new child support order, modifying an existing order, or need assistance with child support payment enforcement, our experienced Franklin child support attorney can securely guide you through the process.

Please get in touch with us online or at (615) 398-6453 to schedule a complimentary consultation.

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