Child support can become a contentious issue in any divorce case in Arizona because it involves two things that are hugely important to everyone: their kids and their money. Child custody and support are oftentimes intertwined as problematic issues before the court, which is why it is important to understand the factors that will come into play when these problems need to be decided by a judge.
Some of the most common child custody orders will designate one parent as the “custodial” parent and the other parent as the “non-custodial” parent. In these types of arrangements, the non-custodial parent is then ordered to pay child support.
To figure out the amount of monthly child support that is necessary, the courts will consider many different factors. Some of the most important factors are: the incomes of both parents; any special needs or extra costs; whether or not alimony has been ordered and in what amount; whether or not either parent has other children whom they must support; the costs of healthcare for the children; and the costs of childcare for the children.
Of course, every case is different, so there may be other factors that come up as well. At our law firm, we work with our clients to attempt to ensure that their child support issue – whether they are the payor or the payee – ends in a fair result. For more information about how our law firm might be able to help with your case, please visit our website.