Child Support Attorneys

Child Support Lawyers Serving Illinois

Whether a child’s parents are divorced or have never been married, the child is legally entitled to financial support from both parents. Typically, the parent who does not have physical or residential custody of the child will have to pay child support to the parent who does. At the Illinois family law firm of Kezy & Associates, we are experienced in handling child support matters related to divorce and paternity cases. Our divorce lawyers represent clients on both sides of these matters and strongly advocate for fair resolutions that protect our clients’ interests and the needs of the child(ren) involved.

Changes to Illinois Law Affecting How Child Support Awards Are Determined

On July 1, 2017, a revision to the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act took effect, and under this law, the method of calculating child support payments in Illinois has been completely revamped. Under the old law, child support was determined using a statutory formula based on the non-custodial parent’s net income and the number of children being supported. The new law has moved Illinois to an income-sharing model that uses both parents’ incomes to determine the amount of child support.

To calculate child support under the new law, a basic support obligation will be determined based on both parents’ combined net income using tables provided by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. The amount of this obligation will then be divided between the parents based on the percentage that each parent contributes to the combined income. The amount of each parent’s parenting time and parental responsibility with their children will also be considered. If children stay overnight with each parent for at least 146 days per year, this will be considered Shared Physical Care, and additional calculations will be performed to divide the basic support obligation between the parents based on the children’s percentage of overnights with each parent.

These guidelines are closely followed in most cases, but the court can decide that there are extenuating factors that are grounds for deviating from this formula. For example, if the child has additional financial needs, such as medical or educational expenses, the paying parent may be required to pay more.

Child support arrangements can also be negotiated out of court. If they are, the court must approve them, however. We are experienced in handling child support negotiations and litigation. We understand the importance of resolving child support matters fairly and ensuring that children are properly provided for. Whether you are the custodial or non-custodial parent, our divorce lawyers will fight for your interests and the interests of your children.

If you are seeking to resolve child support issues as part of a divorce or other family law matter, contact us to schedule a free consultation. We will explain how Illinois’ updated child support law affects your case and your options for modifying an existing child support order. Our firm is experienced in handling child support matters for parents at all income levels, including couples involved in high asset divorces.