Buffalo Child Support Lawyers

Crafting a Path to Financial Security for Your Child

At The Rossi Law Firm, we specialize in providing expert legal guidance and representation in New York, especially concerning child support. Our experienced team of attorneys is committed to helping families navigate the complex terrain of child support laws in New York. We understand the importance of securing your child's financial well-being, and we're here to guide you through the process.

Call The Rossi Law Firm today at (716) 854-5555 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our child support attorneys in Buffalo! 

What is Child Support?

Child support is a financial obligation that one parent must fulfill to assist in meeting the financial needs of their child. This support is typically paid by the non-custodial parent (the parent who does not have primary custody of the child) to the custodial parent (the parent with primary custody). It is essential to remember that child support ensures children receive the financial support they need to maintain a stable and healthy living environment.

How is Child Support Determined in New York?

Our courts use the Child Support Standards Act to determine child support in divorce cases. First, the court will collect each parent's financial information and combine their incomes. It will then determine a percentage of that total income based on how many children the couple has.

The percentages are as follows:

• For one child - 17%
• For two children - 25%
• For three children - 29%
• For four children - 31%
• For five or more children - 35% or more

Once this sum is determined, it is proportionally split between the two parents based on their income. Whatever portion is assigned to the non-custodial parent is the child support they must pay over 12 months.

What Factors Influence Child Support?

The court will consider the following factors when determining child support:

• Income of Both Parents: The court will assess the gross income of both parents, including wages, bonuses, and any other sources of income.
• Child's Basic Needs: New York law accounts for the basic needs of the child, such as food, clothing, and shelter.
• Healthcare Costs: The court will consider the cost of health insurance and any unreimbursed medical expenses.
• Childcare Expenses: If the custodial parent requires childcare services to work or attend school, these costs will be factored into the calculation.
• Educational Expenses: Educational expenses, including tuition and extracurricular activities, may also be considered.
• Parenting Time: The time each parent spends with the child can affect the child support calculation.
• Any Other Relevant Factors: The court may consider other unique circumstances impacting the child's financial needs.

Who Gets Child Support in a Divorce?

In New York, the parent with primary physical custody (the custodial parent) is usually entitled to child support payments. However, shared custody arrangements may affect the amount of support ordered.

Our experienced attorneys at The Rossi Law Firm can help you understand your rights and responsibilities in child support cases. We work diligently to uphold the child's best interests while providing legal support to custodial and non-custodial parents.

What Age Do You Stop Paying Child Support in New York?

Child support obligations in New York generally continue until the child reaches age 21. However, certain circumstances may lead to earlier termination of support. For example:

• Emancipation: Child support obligations may end if a child becomes emancipated before age 21. Emancipation occurs when a child becomes self-supporting, marries, joins the military, or is legally emancipated through a court order.
• Special Needs Children: In some cases, support may be extended beyond age 21 if the child has special needs that require ongoing financial support.
• Educational Expenses: Child support may also be extended for college or vocational education expenses, but this is typically subject to negotiation or court order.

Navigating child support matters can be challenging, but our team of dedicated attorneys at The Rossi Law Firm is here to assist you in understanding your rights and obligations regarding child support in New York.

Contact Our Buffalo Child Support Attorneys Today

At The Rossi Law Firm, we are committed to providing expert legal counsel and representation to clients facing child support issues in New York. We understand the importance of securing your child's financial well-being and will work tirelessly to protect your child's best interests.

Contact The Rossi Law Firm today to schedule a consultation with our child support lawyers in Buffalo!