May 01, 2016

Michigan divorce law requires that the parents of a child make decisions about support issues, or the court will make those decisions for the couple. There is no doubt that, in most cases, both parties want to provide for the needs of their child, but making fair decisions can be hard to do in these situations. If you and your soon to be ex cannot come to a decision about child support matters, as well as child custody and spousal support matters, the court will decide for you. That is why it is so important to work closely with a dedicated attorney to ensure your voice and needs are heard.

Michigan’s child support guidelines follow the Income Shares Model. This is the method the court uses to calculate the amount of monthly support the child should receive from his or her parents. In short, the amount is based on the parent’s income individually. Then, the incomes are offset by the parent which will pay for care. The child support decisions are not based on just basic information supplied by parents, but W-2s and tax documentation are used. Child support worksheets are used to calculate these details as well.

A minimum threshold is established for the child based on his other needs. Then, modifications of the support amount occur based on factors such as health care coverage, childcare, and earnings. In addition to this, the courts will use a formula to factor in late payments or missing child support.

If you are getting a divorce and you are concerned about how much you may have to pay in child support, it pays to invest in an attorney that specializes in Michigan divorce law. Working together, you will learn what you can expect and, perhaps most importantly, you’ll learn how to establish need and your ability to make payments at the prescribed rate. Be proactive by working with a divorce attorney to make these decisions.