Best Child Support Lawyers in Grand Rapids

Q: Do women pay child support?

A: Yes. Gender doesn't typically factor into the child support equation. A father who has custodial rights to a child or children may receive support from the child's mother, particularly if she is the higher wage earner. In the case of same-sex couples where two women are raising a child, the noncustodial mother may be required to pay child support.

Q: How can I check if I owe child support?

A: The court order outlines any obligations of child support. Additional questions about payments owed can be routed through the appropriate local child support office. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Child Support Enforcement maintains a list of state agencies and tribal child support agencies throughout the United States and its territories.

Q: What is included in child support?

A: Child support funds are intended to pay for a child's essential needs. Child support attorneys may advocate as to what should and shouldn't be included in the order. The court may expressly define the expenses to be paid for to help both parties understand their responsibilities.Child support may include the following items and services:

• Food
• Shelter costs, including mortgage or rent, utilities, and furnishings
• Medical expenses, such as medications, eyeglasses, and physician and dental care services
• Childcare services
• Educational expenses, including books, school supplies, uniforms, and field trip fees
• Extracurricular activity costs, such as summer camps, art supplies, or sporting equipment
• Entertainment costs
• Transportation and travel expenses