In Florida, both parents are financially responsible for their child, regardless of whether they were ever married. When parents separate, the court establishes a child support order based on the Income Shares Model under Florida Statute § 61.30, which aims to give the child the same level of financial support they’d have if both parents lived together.
Child support is about more than numbers on a worksheet. It’s about making sure your child’s needs are addressed while protecting your rights as a parent. Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC represents parents throughout West Palm Beach and South Florida in child support and other family law cases.
Why Choose Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC
Child support decisions can affect your finances and your relationship with your child for years to come. At Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC, we help parents resolve child support issues with a clear understanding of Florida law and the facts unique to their case.
Founding attorney Orlando Gonzalez has represented clients in Florida family law cases since 1996, including matters involving child support, divorce, child custody, relocation, and paternity.
Whether you’re establishing child support, requesting a modification, or responding to a dispute, our firm can evaluate your financial circumstances, prepare the necessary court filings, negotiate on your behalf, and represent you in court when needed.
How Florida Courts Determine Child Support
Florida courts calculate child support using the Income Shares Model established by state law. The amount of support is based on each family’s financial circumstances and takes several factors into account, including:
- Each parent’s income
- The parenting schedule
- Health insurance costs
- Childcare expenses
- Certain medical or educational expenses
Child support orders are not always permanent. As families grow and situations change, either parent can ask the court to review an existing order. This may happen after a major change in income, the amount of time a child spends with each parent, or other changes that affect the child’s needs or the parents’ financial responsibilities.
In most cases, child support ends when a child turns 18. However, Florida law recognizes limited exceptions, including when a child is still in high school or has a qualifying mental or physical incapacity.
Discuss Your Case With a West Palm Beach Child Support Attorney
Whether you’re establishing child support, requesting a modification, or responding to a dispute, the decisions made during your case can affect your financial responsibilities and your child’s future. Getting legal guidance early can help you understand your options before reaching an agreement or asking the court to decide.
At Gonzalez & Associates, PLLC, we have decades of experience representing clients in family law cases in West Palm Beach and throughout South Florida. To discuss your child support case, complete our online contact form or call 561-500-4529 to schedule a consultation.
