If parents are divorced or separated, they still want what is best for their child. However, child custody and child support disputes can become incredibly contentious. Child support refers to court-ordered payments that go towards supporting a child financially. Under Minnesota law, a child has the right to be supported financially by both parents. At Knutson+Casey, our Mankato child support attorneys thoroughly understand Minnesota laws regarding this issue and are ready to help protect your parental rights and the best interests of your child.
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When it comes to divorce in Minnesota, some of the most contentious issues that arise revolve around children who are under the age of 18. Importantly, both parents are required to continue supporting any minor children through child support. It will also need to be determined which parent(s) will have physical and legal custody of their child.
Both parents must support their children in Minnesota. Court-ordered child support is mandatory, and a parent can get into serious legal trouble for refusing to pay.
Child support in southern Minnesota includes the following:
In Minnesota, state law uses a method for calculating child support called “Income Shares.” This will calculate child support based on both parents’ income, the number of children involved, in the cost of raising a child at various levels of income. The income shares model presumes that both parents can and should work turn to earn and income and will also use other factors, such as which parent has physical custody or how parenting time is allotted between the parents.
After a divorce or separation is finalized, it is likely that the financial situation of one or both parents will change over time. For example, a person’s income may increase or decrease in the years after a child support order is implemented. In Minnesota, if a parent’s income changes significantly (typically 10% or more), either parent may ask the court for a modification to the child support order. A reduction or increase in child support payments will need to be evaluated by the court based on the changing economic situation of the paying parent.
Anytime there is a dispute regarding child support, or if a modification is needed to existing child support orders, a skilled southern Minnesota family law attorney should be involved. Most parents will not have the legal experience or resources necessary to properly ensure their parental rights are upheld. An attorney will thoroughly examine each case and work to reach a favorable outcome for the parent and their children.
Whether you are going through a current divorce or separation, or already separated, you may need help when dealing with issues related to child support. At Knutson+Casey, we have vast experience handling child support cases in Minnesota, and we are ready to get to work helping you today. Our compassionate Mankato child support attorney will patiently explain all of your options to you so you have the best information moving forward. Whether you are receiving child support or paying the support, we want to ensure you are treated fairly throughout this entire situation. You can contact us online for a free consultation of your case, or call us at (507) 344-8888.