Child support and visitation are often some of the worst parts of any divorce. You suddenly go from spending every evening and weekend with your children to only seeing them once during the week and every other weekend. As if that weren’t bad enough, you’re also expected to pay child support while seeing your children less. It’s a perfect storm for frustrations.
A child support issue can create animosity between you and your former spouse, even if you were trying to keep things civil.
You must pay your support in full, even if you don’t agree with the amount
The state of Maryland uses a calculator to determine child support amounts. It takes into account the income of both parents, as well as any special needs for your children. In cases of a temporary divorce order issued during your pre-divorce separation, the amount of support may be based solely on information provided by your former spouse when he or she filed for divorce. You may have documentation or information that could help you obtain a revision to your child support order. To do that, however, you must continue paying the ordered amount while you wait for a hearing.
Your attorney can help you request the hearing, gather necessary documentation and argue your case for a child support reduction. He or she can also help you plan for the final divorce proceedings. If you are hoping to gain full or partial custody of your children, paying your support in full and on time helps establish you as a dedicated and responsible parent to the courts. Failing to do so can have the exact opposite effect.
You need to pay child support even if you’re being denied visitation
In the state of Maryland, child support obligations are not contingent on visitation. If you refuse to see or care for your children, you are still obligated to pay child support. If your former spouse is refusing, shortening or otherwise denying you court ordered visitation with your children, you are still required to pay your child support. Your attorney can help you document any violations of your visitation arrangement, which may be helpful during the final divorce proceedings. He or she can also advocate on your behalf to your former spouse, or his or her attorney, to help ensure better future compliance for visits.
An attorney can protect your future and your family during divorce
Trying to go through a divorce without adequate support from an experienced divorce and family law attorney can be frustrating and difficult. An attorney can help you ensure that you obtain the best possible outcome from your divorce. He or she can guide you through custody arrangements and child support compliance, among other common issues. Don’t risk losing your chance at full or partial custody. Retain the services of an experienced attorney as soon as you know divorce is inevitable.
