Macomb County Child Support
Helping Families Navigate Child Support Issues with Compassion and Expertise
At Ziulkowski & Associates, we understand the significant challenges that come with navigating child support matters. Whether you're seeking to establish a child support order, modify an existing arrangement, or address child support arrears, our team is here to help. We are dedicated to helping families in Macomb County and beyond resolve child support issues with professionalism and care.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you're facing child support issues, don't hesitate to reach out to our experienced Macomb County child support attorneys. We have a strong track record of helping clients navigate child support matters across Michigan.
Reach out online or call (586) 600-7623 to get started today. We serve Macomb, Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, Genesee, and Lapeer County.
Understanding Child Support
Child support is designed to ensure that both parents contribute fairly to the financial well-being of their children. Whether you’re the custodial or non-custodial parent, understanding how child support is calculated and enforced can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
How Is Child Support Determined?
Child support is calculated using a guideline set by the Michigan Child Support Formula. The amount of child support you owe is based on several factors, including:
- Income of Both Parents: This includes salaries, wages, bonuses, overtime, and other sources of income.
- Childcare and Healthcare Costs: Both parents share responsibility for medical, dental, and other necessary expenses for the child.
- Custody Arrangements: The amount of time the child spends with each parent is considered when calculating support payments.
- Other Factors: Special needs of the child, existing support obligations, and other circumstances can also impact the final amount.
How Can We Help with Child Support Issues?
Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or need help addressing arrears (unpaid child support), we are here to guide you through the process. Some of the services we offer include:
- Establishing Child Support Orders: If you're looking to establish child support, we’ll help you file the necessary paperwork and advocate for a fair amount of support based on the child support guidelines.
- Modifying Child Support Orders: If your circumstances have changed — whether it’s a change in income, employment, or custody — we can help petition the court to modify your child support order.
- Addressing Child Support Arrears: If you're behind on child support payments or are seeking help to collect overdue support, our team can help you resolve the arrears, whether through negotiation or enforcement actions.
- Enforcing Child Support: If the other parent is failing to pay court-ordered child support, we can assist with enforcement actions, such as wage garnishment, tax refund interception, or other legal remedies.
Modifications to Child Support Orders
Child support payments are not set in stone. If you experience a significant change in life circumstances, you may be able to seek a modification of your child support order. Some common reasons for modifying child support include:
- Changes in Income: A job loss, pay cut, or significant increase in income can justify a modification of support.
- Changes in Custody or Parenting Time: If you or the other parent has a significant change in custody or parenting time, child support may need to be adjusted accordingly.
- Medical or Special Needs of the Child: If a child has new medical needs or other special circumstances arise, a modification may be necessary.
We can help you request a modification and navigate the legal steps involved to ensure the child support arrangement is fair and meets the needs of the child.
Enforcing Child Support Orders
If the non-custodial parent fails to make their required child support payments, enforcement actions may be necessary. The Michigan courts and state agencies have several enforcement tools, including:
- Wage Garnishment: The state can directly garnish the wages of the parent who owes child support.
- Tax Refund Interception: The state can intercept tax refunds to satisfy child support obligations.
- License Suspensions: If a parent is significantly behind on child support, their driver's license, professional licenses, or recreational licenses may be suspended.
We can help ensure that a child support order is enforced properly and that your child’s needs are being met.
The Child Support Payment Process
Child support payments are typically made through the Michigan State Disbursement Unit (SDU). The SDU processes payments and ensures they are disbursed to the custodial parent. It is important to keep track of all payments and ensure that the payment schedule is followed. Failure to pay on time could result in penalties and enforcement actions.
If you need help navigating the child support payment process, are facing difficulties making payments, or are involved in a divorce or custody dispute, our attorneys can provide guidance and assistance tailored to your unique family law situation.
Reach out online or call (586) 600-7623 to get started today. We serve Macomb, Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, Genesee, and Lapeer County.
What Sets Us Apart From The Rest?
Benefits of Representation from Our Legal Team
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They are true professionals and sincerely care about their clients.- Shantaina S.
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She’s always looking out for my best interest and willing to help no matter day or time.- Brianna D.
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She is competent, dedicated, and willing to go head-to-head with other aggressive lawyers on behalf of her clients.- Charlie L.
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This was a very stressful time and they were there for me every step of the way. Thank you Janet and Amy for everything.- Ronri