Child Support after Divorce.

Prentiss Law & Associates is dedicated to advocating for your parental rights with care and professionalism.

Redding Child Support Attorney.

Prioritizing Your Child’s Best Interests.

At Prentiss Law & Associates, we work with families to create custody agreements that include Child Support, respecting the needs of the parents while prioritizing the best interest of the child.

Navigating child support and custody issues can feel overwhelming, especially during a divorce. At Prentiss Law & Associates, we guide divorcing parents and guardians through the complexities of family law, ensuring you understand your rights and responsibilities under California law.

At Prentiss Law & Associates, our experienced family law attorneys are dedicated to serving Northern California families with expertise and compassion, always prioritizing what matters most for you and your child.

Aggressive. Serious. Defense.

Call Prentiss Law & Associates today at (530) 691-0245 or email us through the form on our Contact page to schedule a meeting with our Child Support Attorney in Redding!

Understanding Child Support Laws in California.

California state law requires both parents to provide financial support for their child, regardless of custody arrangements. Child support payments are typically calculated using a standardized formula, taking into account factors such as:

  • Each parent’s income.
  • The amount of time the child spends with each parent.
  • Any existing financial obligations, such as other children or spousal support payments.

These payments are designed to cover a child’s basic living expenses, including housing, food, clothing, education, and healthcare. It’s essential to understand that child support is not optional; it’s a legal obligation enforceable by the courts.

Custody Arrangements and Their Impact on Child Support.

When determining custody arrangements, California law recognizes two types of custody:

1. Legal Custody.

  • Joint Legal Custody: Both parents share the rights and responsibilities for making important decisions about their child’s health, education, and welfare.

  • Sole Legal Custody: One parent has exclusive authority to make these decisions.

2. Physical Custody.

  • Joint Legal Custody: The child spends significant time with both parents.

  • Sole Legal Custody: The child lives primarily with one parent, while the other may have visitation rights.

The type of custody arrangement significantly impacts child support calculations, as the parent with primary physical custody may receive financial support from the non-custodial parent to help cover the child’s needs.

At Prentiss Law & Associates, we work with families to create custody agreements that respect the needs of the parents while prioritizing the best interest of the child.

Determining the Best Interest of Your Child.

If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or a parenting plan, a judge will decide based on your child’s best interests. California family law outlines specific factors that judges consider, including:

  • The age and health of the child.
  • The emotional ties between the child and each parent.
  • The child’s connection to their school, home, and community.
  • The ability of each parent to care for the child.
  • Family violence or substance abuse.

Based on all these factors, the judge will decide custody arrangements and parenting plans that protect the child’s overall welfare. It’s important to work with an experienced family law attorney to present your case and your commitment to your child’s best interests effectively.

Prentiss Law & Associates Committed to Families.

At Prentiss Law & Associates, we are committed to helping families move forward with clarity and confidence; simplifying the complexities of child support and custody laws to ensure you are aware of your rights and the different options available.

Every family is unique. We’ll work closely with you to create custody and child support strategies that fit your specific needs, with care and professionalism.