Franklin Child Support Lawyer
Child support is a crucial component in ensuring that children’s needs are met after a divorce, separation, or when parents live apart. In Tennessee, child support is governed by specific guidelines and legal procedures designed to ensure that both parents contribute fairly to the financial upbringing of their children.
However, navigating the legal system can be complicated, and child support decisions can have long-term financial consequences. Whether you are seeking child support or facing a request for support, having an experienced Franklin child support lawyer by your side is essential.
Get a free consultation for child support guidance in Franklin. Contact our child support lawyer in Franklin, TN for a free consultation today! Call (615) 239-1374
Understanding Child Support in Franklin, Tennessee
Tennessee law requires child support to be settled by the court. The judge will calculate the support based on:
- Individual incomes of each parent
- How much time the mother and father each spend with their child
- How many children the child support will cover
This financial aid helps the custodial parent cover living expenses, food, insurance, and any general needs of the child. Child support may also provide a way for non-custodial parents to pay for extra fees for the child’s activities or healthcare.
Once the court establishes the child support arrangement, it is required to be upheld until either the child graduates from high school, turns 18, or is emancipated. Of course, under special circumstances, the arrangement can be modified to reflect any changes in need or ability to contribute. I can work to help you show compelling proof that the support should be amended to better address any life changes.
She’s both caring and knowledgeable.Laurel B.
Divorce
What Happens if I Do Not Pay Child Support in TN?
Tennessee has low tolerance for noncustodial parents who fail to provide their owed monthly payments to their child’s other parent. The Child Support Services Enforcement will handle the matter, which could result in a variety of penalties, including:
- Revocation of your driver’s license
- Seizure of your bank account
- Denial of your passport
- Placement of a lien on your property
- Loss of your tax refund
- Impaired credit report
Modifying Child Support Orders
There are situations where child support orders may need to be modified. For example, if there is a significant change in either parent’s financial situation, such as a job loss or a major increase in income, the existing child support order may no longer be appropriate. In such cases, you can petition the court for a modification of the child support order.
A Franklin child support lawyer can help you navigate the process of modifying child support. The lawyer will review the circumstances surrounding the request, gather the necessary evidence, and represent you in court to obtain a fair modification. Courts will consider factors such as changes in income, changes in the child’s needs, or changes in the amount of time spent with each parent.
Seeking Child Support in Tennessee
Here is a summarized bullet point list of the process for seeking child support in Tennessee:
- File a Petition for Child Support: The custodial parent or a state agency files a petition with the court to request child support from the noncustodial parent.
- Child Support Hearing: A court hearing is scheduled where both parents present financial information, such as income and expenses.
- Income and Financial Disclosure: Both parents are required to provide documentation of their income, assets, and living expenses. This helps determine the amount of child support.
- Child Support Guidelines: The court uses Tennessee's child support guidelines, which consider factors such as both parents' income, the number of children, and any special needs.
- Child Support Order: Based on the financial information and the guidelines, the court issues a child support order that specifies the monthly amount to be paid.
- Payment Arrangements: The child support payments are typically paid through the state's child support enforcement agency to ensure proper tracking and enforcement.
- Enforcement of Support Orders: If the noncustodial parent fails to pay child support, the custodial parent can seek enforcement through the court, which may involve wage garnishment, liens, or other penalties.
- Modification of Support Orders: Either parent can request a modification of the child support order if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a change in income or custody.
- Review and Adjustment: Child support orders can be reviewed periodically to ensure they are in line with the parents' current financial situation.
For more information about child support in Tennessee, contact Julia E. Stovall Attorney at Law calling (615) 239-1374. Our Franklin child support attorney available 24/7 to help you.
Fighting for Your Owed Assistance
At Julia E. Stovall Attorney at Law, our Franklin child support attorney approaches each case with the individualized attention necessary to effectively fight for my clients’ best interests.
When it comes to child support cases, I act as the tenacious advocate you need to protect your family and ensure you are able to sufficiently provide for them. I offer 30 years of experience fighting for Franklin families going through a divorce and I’m prepared to do the same for yours too.
Reach out online or call Julia E. Stovall Attorney at Law to get 30 years of experience with our Franklin child support lawyer on your side: (615) 239-1374.
Why Choose My Firm?
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