Will I Have to Pay Child Support?

Many people hold the common misconception that child support is money paid by a father to a mother in order to provide for the costs of caring for their children. While this may often be the case, the actual definition of child support is assistance (usually financial) which is owed by either parent to and for the benefit of the child. This meaning takes into account the responsibility of both parents to the child. A parent cannot waive a child’s right to receive such child support. In fact, the state of Georgia requires parents to provide adequate support for their minor children.

Am I Entitled to Receive Child Support?

Any custodial parent or caretaker of a child can collect regular child support from a parent who should contribute to the needs of that child. A custodial parent is defined as the person having physical custody of the child for more than half of the time. Under Georgia law, the income of both parents is included in the child support calculation. Under this approach, a court will determine the monthly gross income of both parents and may adjust that amount upward or downward to include various deductions and child-related expenses. The final amount is then allocated between the parents based on their respective incomes. Georgia enacted this standard in January 2007. This new approach allows for the parent with the lower income to pay less of the child’s overall support than the other parent. This could potentially mean that a non-custodial parent may pay less support to the custodial parent depending on the specific circumstances. However, it is also possible for the opposite to be the case. The amount decided upon will continue to be in effect as long as it is not modified. Child support may last until the child either reaches the age of 18 or 20 if he or she has not graduated high school. Child support will also end if the child dies, marries, or becomes emancipated from the parents regardless of the age of the child.

Can I Be Ordered to Pay Child Support if I Do Not See My Child?

As previously stated, child support is a right of the child and as such it cannot be waived by a parent. Whether a parent spends time with the child or not, for whatever the reason may be, does not waive the right of that child to support. However, a factor that courts will take into consideration when determining the amount of child support to award is parenting time. This allows the court the discretion to reduce the child support amount paid by a non-custodial parent who exercises more than standard visitation with a child. The attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum are experienced in all areas of child support. We understand the complexities that involve any case in which children are present. Our team will work to determine a plan that is appropriate for your family and will advocate for your needs. Popular Resources:

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   James Gilbey 
 23 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you’re looking for a divorce lawyer who combines the grit of a prizefighter, the patience of a kindergarten teacher, and the bedside manner of a seasoned therapist, Brianna Moscowitz is your person.

I found Brianna at a time when I was navigating the emotional equivalent of a shipwreck. Not only did they keep me afloat, they helped me rebuild the damn boat. Stronger, smarter, and far more seaworthy.

Brianna is, in a word, exceptional. Tough when the situation demanded it, honest even when it stung (which I appreciated more than I expected), and tirelessly hardworking. She was never out for blood, but always out for what was fair. And more than that, she genuinely seemed to care. I never felt like a case file or a transaction. I felt heard, respected, and protected.

She explained everything in human, non-lawyer English. She had time for my questions (even the dumb ones). She never sugar-coated things, but somehow still managed to deliver tough truths with compassion and clarity. That, my friends, is a rare skill.

If you’re in the market for a legal team that fights smart, listens well, and shows up with both integrity and empathy—this is where you want to be. Highly, wholeheartedly, five-stars-with-an-extra-gold-sticker recommend.
  
 
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   Wan Williams 
 38 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely Outstanding Representation!

Vayman and Teitelbaum went above and beyond in handling our case. Stephanie Weil provided amazing, professional, and detail-oriented service throughout the entire process. I felt supported every step of the way and truly appreciated the level of care and attention given to our case.

Thank you for everything! I highly recommend Vayman and Teitelbaum to anyone looking for professional and dedicated representation.
  
 
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   Christopher Brown 
 59 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Leah was great! She picked up my case and came through in helping me win! She remained professional throughout, and even patiently put up with all of my questions. Thank you! Edit: And it has been confirmed the other side in this old case submitted fabricated text message conversations,  could have gotten way more from them. Edit 2: New evidence suggests the other side even made fake domains, for fake emails to use in civil court. Stay Vigiliant!
  
 
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   Kevin Brown 
 99 days ago
 
 
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 119 days ago
 
 
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   John Sumlin 
 176 days ago
 
 
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V and T law firm. When I was challenged by the death of a loved one, the grief and confusion were overwhelming! I needed special help, and I found it. My highly skilled team at the firm have become friends to guide me at every step in the probate process. Their professional help was 100% punctual, 100% responsive, 100% caring, and 100% effective.
  
 
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   Iliana Castro 
 176 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Leah Zammit was the lawyer that support me getting my documents done, she is the most efficient and kind person that I could find. I’m very grateful to work with her and the firm.
  
 
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   John Bryant 
 202 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am very happy with my representation from Amanda and her team. My divorce ended up being a little more complicated than was anticipated and their guidance and helping me keep a level head was critical to a resolution. I definitely recommend them if you are in need of legal representation.
  
 
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   Marshay Green 
 264 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hiring Vayman & Teitelbaum, P.C was one of the best decisions I made in my life. They represented me pertaining to custody modification. Not only did I receive what we were fighting for, I got more! I received primary custody of my son. Out of all the things I’ve accomplished in my life, this was by far the biggest one. My son means everything to me. Seeing him daily and being involve more in his life has given my life more purpose. I’ll never forget this process.  Ms.Zammit, Ms.Shipman and Ms.Horensky were more than exceptional. They were amazing. They got the job done. I would strongly recommend them to anyone seeking for help pretaining to custody modification! God bless.
  
 
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   Stephanie Gill 
 268 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've had a wonderful experience working with Andrea Johnson and her wonderful team through a very difficult personal matter. They are very knowledgeable and were always a call or email away. They responded immediately to any question I may have had. I would definitely work with Mrs. Andrea Johnson and her team should another court matter arise. Thank you so much for caring for my family and helping us keep them safe. ❤️