South Florida Child Support Attorney

Child support in Florida is determined by a formula that considers the net income of mother and father as well as other factors. Pembroke Pines attorney Jerome Ventura is highly experienced in developing child support agreements, in enforcing these agreements, and in seeking changes when circumstances warrant.

There are statutory rules for determining how net income is determined. Certain deductions are allowed by law, including:

• Any insurance payment for health insurance, dental insurance, and any health and dental care for a child
• Child care expenses
• Child support for other children

While the calculation of child support payments is done by a formula, an attorney's skill and experience is helpful in determining what net income is. If the other party runs a business or works on the side, then your lawyer may need to consult accounting experts and calculate income based on spending or other factors. A lawyer's assistance is also needed to assess any special needs your child may have.

Child support is not tax deductible by the person paying it, nor is it considered income to the person receiving it. Whoever provides 51 percent (IRS guidelines) or more support for the child can claim the child deduction on their income taxes, unless the divorce agreement awards this deduction to a particular party.

Child support ends when a child is declared an adult (emancipated), turns 18, graduates from high school (before age 19), gets married, or joins the military, unless there are special needs.

Child Support Modification

Child support may be changed due to a substantial:

• Change in child care
• Change in income of father or mother
• Change in child needs due to a newly developed issue such as disability or injury

Attorney Jerome Ventura is well-versed in support enforcement issues, including support arrearages, garnishments, and income deduction orders.

For an initial limited consultation at no charge, call 954.438.2828 or complete the contact form on this web site. Evening appointments are available.