Child Support
Family Court Act Article 4
Suffolk County Child Support Lawyer
By J. Douglas Barics
Parents have a legal duty to support their children. When parents are divorcing, the divorce will determine the amount of support. When married people are not divorcing, or if the parents were never married, the Family Court can issue orders of support.
Child support is set out in Family Court Act §413, which is identical to DRL §240(1-b).
Prior to 1989, the amount of support was entirely at the court's discretion. Since then, the amount of support is based on a formula which uses a percentage of income as child support.
The amount of children will determine the percentage of income up to a certain cap. The cost of health insurance premiums are factored in, depending on which parent is paying for them. In addition, day care and unreimbursed medical expenses are set by a percentage to each parent.
When income is solely from W-2 earnings, calculating child support is fairly straightforward. But when income is hidden, or artificially lowered, or derived from self employment, the amount of income is less obvious and a skilled lawyer can make a tremendous difference.
If you need assistance in obtaining child support, or if you are being requested to pay child support we can provide legal assistance to ensure the order is appropriate.
Do you need representation in a Family Court proceeding for Child Support in Nassau or Suffolk County?
Contact us online or at (631) 864-2600.
Child Support in Family Court
What you need to know about child support proceedings in Family Court
I'm not in a divorce, can I still get an order of child support?
Yes. A parent's obligation to support their children is not dependent on whether the parents are married or not, or whether they are married.
How do I request an order of child support?
A petition is filed in Family Court to request child support. The forms are available online and at the Family Court. They are designed to allow people to file without using a lawyer.
What age does child support end in New York?
Child support ends at age 21. If the child is permanently disabled, it may be extended to age 26.
How is child support calculated in Family Court?
Child support is calculated the same was as it is in Supreme Court for a divorce, the same formula is used.
Contact Our Child Support Lawyer Today
At the Law Office of J. Douglas Barics, we have the skills and knowledge to handle any Child Support matter in Family Court. With over 25 years of Family Law experience, we can bring to you the services of a large firm at a fraction of the cost.
For a free phone case consultation or to schedule an office meeting, call 631-864-2600.