If you have questions or concerns about a Michigan child support issue in Muskegon, Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Grand Rapids, or elsewhere in West Michigan, the family law attorneys at Gielow Groom Terpstra & McEvoy’s law firm in Muskegon can help.
Child support is court-ordered payments for the financial support of a minor child(ren). Michigan child support payments are determined by a state formula (Michigan Child Support Formula Manual) based on the income of the parents and other factors. Parties cannot bargain away or set limits on a child’s right to receive support. The state formula is essentially mandatory unless there is a justifiable reason for deviation.
Child support in Michigan is always modifiable. Typically enforced through the Friend of the Court (unless parties opt out), child support is usually required until the child attains the age of 18 years or until the child graduates from high school.
Child support may include a contribution for childcare expenses through the end of the school year when the child turns 12. Uninsured health care expenses for the children will usually be divided between the parties based on the ratio of their incomes and are determined by the child support formula.
You may want to view the Model Friend of the Court Handbook for some common child support questions and answers. If you have further questions or need assistance with a child support dispute in Muskegon, Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Grand Rapids, or elsewhere in West Michigan, give one of our experienced Muskegon child support lawyers a call.