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Child Support Attorney Spokane, WA
Navigating child support legal matters can be a daunting task. Let our experienced team at Hodgson Law Office in Spokane guide you through this complex process. Our dedicated child support attorneys have the knowledge and expertise to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
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Our Passionate Child Support Attorneys in Spokane, WA
At Hodgson Law Office, our law firm understands the importance of ensuring that children receive the proper care, and we're passionate about helping our clients navigate the complexities of child support legal matters. Our team of attorneys provides a wide range of child support services, including establishing child support orders, modifying child support orders, enforcing child support orders, determining paternity, and addressing child support and child custody disputes.
Whether you're dealing with a contentious child support dispute or simply need assistance with understanding your rights and responsibilities under Washington State law, our attorneys are here to help. We proudly serve clients in Spokane, Spokane County, Stevens County, Lincoln County, Adams County, and the surrounding areas.
How Does the Court Calculate Child Support in Washington?
In Washington State, child support is typically paid monthly to the custodial parent, and the amount of financial support is determined by the court based on the Washington State Support Schedule. The following factors are considered in the calculation of child support payments:
- - Gross incomes of both parents
- - The number and ages of the children involved
- - Applicable deductions, such as taxes, union dues, Social Security, Medicare, and pension contributions
- - Income of your current spouse or live-in partner
- - The number of children you support overall
- - Other children your current spouse or live-in partner supports
These factors are used to determine a basic support legal obligation, which is then adjusted based on other relevant factors, such as childcare costs, health care costs, and parenting time arrangements. Our skilled child support attorneys at Hodgson Law Office can help you understand how these factors apply to your child support case and ensure that your child support order is fair and accurate.
Washington’s Child Support Laws
In Washington, both parents are responsible for contributing to the financial needs of their children. Child support payments are calculated based on the parent's income shares model, which takes into account the income of both parents. The amount of support owed by each parent correlates to their own percentage of the total combined income of both parents. The custodial parent is assumed to be spending their portion of the child support on the child, as they're the primary caregiver. Therefore, only the noncustodial parent is required to make child support payments to the custodial parent. Washington's child support law aims to ensure that children receive the financial support they need from both parents. If you need assistance with child support matters, it's recommended to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help you understand your rights and obligations.
Enforcement of Child Support Orders
Enforcing child support orders is a critical part of ensuring that children receive the support they need. A custodial parent may file a petition for a contempt hearing when the non-custodial parent fails to pay court-ordered child support. Various child support enforcement options are available, including wage garnishment, benefit garnishment, and even jail time. It's important to have an experienced attorney to navigate this process efficiently and effectively. Child support orders remain in effect until the child reaches the age of 18 or graduates from high school. To obtain an order for post-secondary support, a parent must petition the court before the child's 18th birthday or high school graduation. The court will consider various factors to determine which parent pays what percentage of college-related costs. As a Spokane child support attorney, we can help you enforce child support orders you need and guide you through the legal process.
Child Support Modification
In Spokane, Washington, child support payments can be reviewed and modified every two years or earlier if there has been a substantial change in circumstances, such as a change in income or the number of children being supported. A modification to basic support obligation may also be sought due to unforeseen medical expenses or a change in where the child primarily resides. Parents can request a modification from the court if there has been a significant change in custody or parenting time, income, medical costs, or childcare/education expenses. The court must approve any modification made to the amount of child support being paid, and failure to gain approval may lead to a contempt action. Child support generally continues until the child reaches 18 or graduates from high school, but if the child is disabled, payments may continue for a longer period as determined by the court. It's recommended to consult with a family law attorney to navigate the child support modification process.
Contact Us to Learn About Your Options Concerning Child Support Issues in Spokane, WA
For help with child support legal issues in Spokane, WA, contact us at Hodgson Law Office. Our experienced family law attorneys can provide you with personalized guidance and help you understand your options in this complicated process. Schedule a free consultation by calling us at (509) 327-1415 or contacting us online today.
Free ConsultationWhy Choose Hodgson Law Office as Your Spokane Child Support Lawyer?
Our team has the experience and dedication needed to protect your child's best interests. Here's why we're the right choice for you:
Experience
Our attorneys have nearly two decades of experience in family law, including child support cases.
Free consultations
We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and provide you with personalized guidance.
Individualized approach
We understand that every case is unique, and we take the time to work closely with you to achieve your goals for your children's well-being.
Comprehensive case management
We handle all aspects of your case, from filing paperwork to representing you in court, to help you achieve a favorable outcome.
Communication
We prioritize open and honest communication to ensure that you're informed every step of the way.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Child Support Attorneys Today in Spokane
Contact Hodgson Law Office for a free consultation with our experienced child support attorneys in Spokane. We'll fight for a child support agreement that's in your and your children's best interests.
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Reviews from Our Clients
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I hired Mark Hodgson for a divorce in Spokane. He was open, friendly, and gave me great advice and counsel. Mark was honest with me about my case and worked hard to resolve all of my issues quickly. He responded to my phone calls and questions every time. He was WONDERFUL in my hearing and got me alimony, child support, and the parenting plan that my children needed. I had two other lawyers before Mark and he is far superior to my previous counsel. He fought hard for me and he knew the law. I would and will recommend him to everyone that i know.
Susan
These situations are never easy. Deciding to get a lawyer then choosing one was a very hard decision. I spoke to a few people that have been thru divorce and Mark’s name came up more than once. I went and met with him, his business partners and Casey his assistant. They were all friendly, professional and most importantly for me nonjudgmental. He is very educated on divorce with children and keeps in mind what is best for the kids! He answered my questions and didn’t make me feel belittled as other lawyers did. Thank you Mark Hodgson and team you are all very appreciated!
Tricia
Called Mark Wednesday the day before Thanksgiving. He got us in that Friday the day after Thanksgiving. We decided to hire him and he made the time to start the process of paperwork that Sunday. It was great he did this so my wife and I didn’t have to miss work and our case was a time sensitive issue. The few times I’ve had to emailed him he seem to get right back to us with answers.
John
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our team
Meet Our Attorneys
We're a team of family law attorneys who are passionate about helping clients reach their child support goals. Our personalized legal representation prioritizes your interests and those of your children. Meet our attorneys below.
- Attorney
Mark D. Hodgson
I am committed to helping my clients through one of the most difficult times in their lives....
Julie Harrington
Briana Gieri
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Mary Carter
Attorney
Mark D. Hodgson
I am committed to helping my clients through one of the most difficult times in their lives....
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Areas We Serve
Contact Us to Get Legal Help From Our Spokane Child Support Lawyers
If you need legal help with child support in Spokane, don't hesitate to contact Hodgson Law Office. Our experienced and skilled attorneys have a proven track record of success in representing clients in family court. We pride ourselves on providing effective and efficient legal services, with a focus on achieving favorable results for our clients. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (509) 327-1415 or contact us online today.
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FAQ
Can the court deviate from the child support guidelines?
Yes, the court can deviate from the child support guidelines if there are special circumstances. For example, if a parent has a high income or if the child has special needs, the court may deviate from the standard amount. The court may also consider factors such as the child's educational or medical expenses, or the parents' travel costs when determining the amount of child support.
What can I do if the other parent refuses to pay child support?
If one parent refuses to pay child support, file an enforcement action with the court. The court can order payment through tax returns, wage garnishment, or contempt actions. The Division of Child Support (DCS) may also take action, such as suspending licenses. Regardless of the circumstances, we can help you get the back child support you deserve.
How much child support can I expect to pay?
The amount of child support a parent can expect to pay in Spokane, Washington depends on various factors such as income, number of children, and parenting time. The Washington State Child Support Schedule provides guidelines for determining child support obligations based on these factors. It's best to consult with an experienced family law attorney to determine the specific amount of child support you may be obligated to pay.