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Parental Rights in Illinois & Belleville Child Support

At Wilson, Dabler & Associates, L.L.C., a divorce lawyer in Belleville IL is prepared to walk you through the difficult process of obtaining child support and spousal support or defending you against an unfair amount of either form of support.

Child support is a necessary element of divorce when children are involved. It is highly regulated by the statutes. The net income of the parent who is to pay is determined and used to calculate a percentage paid according to child support guidelines. The Illinois statutory guidelines are usually strictly enforced, although we assist our clients, if needed, to find exceptions that might apply to raise or lower the guidelines.

Ultimately, the best interest of the child is to be kept at the forefront, as well as the overall circumstances of both parents. Starting July 1, 2017, the law changed dramatically. Essentially, the child support guidelines began taking the mother’s income into account, which may decrease the amount that fathers have to pay. Our firm is well-versed in the upcoming changes, so contact us to learn more.

How are Child Support Payments Calculated in Illinois?

According to Illinois law, child support is calculated based on many factors. However, it is possible for you to estimate monthly payments if you understand the variables that go into the calculation. It should still be noted that ultimately it is the courts who have the final say in determining child support as well as parenting time and other elements of a divorce proceeding.

Factors Used to Determine Child Support in Illinois:

If you would like to discuss pending child support orders or parental responsibilities, we would like to help you. Any family law attorney, any attorney in fact, is best able to serve you if you are prepared to discuss the facts of your case.

In this instance, determining child support, who should receive child support, who should pay child support and any other child support issues, it is beneficial to familiarize yourself with the following list of child support factors. If possible bring the numbers and amounts listed below to your consultation so that we can best help you achieve a fair child support outcome.

• Number of Children. The greater the number of children between the divorcing couple generally increases the amount of child support responsibilities. It is also important to know how the division of custody was determined.
• Alimony or Spousal Maintenance Received or Paid. This will have some impact on the amount of support that will be allotted for child support.
• Number Overnights Children have with the Custodial Parent. How many nights per year are spent with the CP (Custodial Parent)?
• Parental Income. Custodial and Non-Custodial Parent income (not including alimony) before and after taxes.
• Social Security Payments: Does either or both parents receive Social Security benefits?
• Other Child Support Agreements. Do you or the other parent presently have other child support being paid or received from another parent?
• Children Not Included in Other Child Support Agreements. How many children are supported by you or the other parent without an agreement? Not paid through Child Support Services. What is the amount?
• Children’s Health Insurance Costs. What is the monthly amount of this coverage currently in place? State who is paying the cost (CP or NCP). Bring any other details of the insurance plan.
• Child Care Costs. Bring any supporting documentation regarding daycare, after school care, etc.
• Additional Child-Related Expenses. Bring documentation of costs of clubs, sports, or activities.

Spousal Support Illinois & Maintenance In Illinois

Spousal support and maintenance payments underwent a major revision in the Illinois Statutes, effective January 1, 2015. The new statute provides a formula to be utilized by the court for parties who have a combined gross income of $250,000 or less, and although not mandatory for couples exceeding that amount, the court can use the new formula as guidance along with factors such as length of the marriage, in establishing those sums of maintenance as well. Once the court determines that the factors are appropriate for an award of maintenance, much of the guesswork is removed by the new statutory formula. Illinois marriage and dissolution rules can be complex; speak to an experience family law attorney to learn more.

We are prepared to represent your interests and help you get off to the best start possible in the new chapter of your life that you are about to begin. Our personable and comprehensive lawyers will listen to your situation and help you find a spousal support solution that closely meets your specific needs.

Other Areas Related to Divorce And Children

Wilson Dabler and Associates, LLC, know that the most difficult part of the divorce process is often centered around looking out for the well-being of your children. We are able to help if you believe the other parent is unfit, if you’re concerned about establishing paternity, if you are anticipating a child custody case between unmarried parents or any other factor related to parenting, divorce and custody in Illinois.

We’re skilled, compassionate attorneys in Belleville, IL who offer solid legal advice, representation and advocacy. We are familiar with correcting unfair court ordered support, advocating for fair custody of the child, and representing you to maintain a positive impact in your child’s life.

To arrange a consultation to discuss your child support and spousal support needs, please contact us today at 618-235-1600.