Okmulgee Child Support Lawyer

Okmulgee Child Support Attorney

Every parent in Oklahoma has the responsibility to provide financially for their child. That’s usually a given when the parents are in a relationship, but when parents separate, sometimes it’s not as clear who is responsible for what. If you think you may be entitled to child support or need to make changes to an existing child support order, it’s essential to hire an experienced Okmulgee child support lawyer to review your case and advocate for your child.

The skilled legal professionals at Eagan Law Office can help you navigate the complicated legal process to make sure everything is handled correctly so you receive the child support you qualify for. Our team’s goal is to take away as much of the legal stress as possible for our clients and their families.

What You Need to Know About Child Support

Child support is money a parent pays to support their child financially. Whether or not a judge or family court has determined child support, both parents are still financially responsible for the child’s living expenses. These expenses can include:

• Housing
• Education
• Clothing
• Food
• Transportation
• Medical care

Child support payments are not always required. Support may be necessary in situations where one parent’s income or expenses are significantly higher than the other’s, the child spends more time in the care of one parent, or when a minor child has a legal guardian who is not their parent (this may or may not be another family member).

Receiving Child Support

Payments are normally included in child custody orders as part of a divorce or paternity case. This is usually paid monthly from one parent to the other after they have separated, whether they were married or not. To receive child support payments, a family court judge must first establish a support order that directs the parent to pay a set amount of support.

However, while a parent may be legally responsible for paying child support, there may be times when the parent fails or refuses to meet that obligation. When this happens, enforcing child support can be difficult.

How a Child Support Lawyer Can Help

Child support might seem pretty simple, but it can be complicated depending on the individual situation. Mistakes in the legal process can lead to stress and undue financial burden for either parent, but the children are the ones who suffer having unmet needs.

Whether you are just starting out with a child custody case due to a divorce or separation, looking to modify existing arrangements, or dealing with a parent who has failed to meet their obligation, consulting with an Okmulgee child support lawyer can help ensure your child receives the support they need.

FAQs

Q: In Oklahoma, How Do You Calculate Child Support?

A: Oklahoma uses the “Income Shares” model, which determines child support by adding the adjusted gross income of both parents, including all active and passive income. Child support is calculated using the Oklahoma child support guidelines and is based on both parents’ total income, expenses, how much time the child spends in the parent’s physical custody, and on how many children are in the household.

Q: How Far Back Can Child Support Be Claimed in Oklahoma?

A: Unpaid child support can be claimed at any time. Because child support is not subject to a statute of limitations in Oklahoma, any unpaid child support is still owed until it is paid in full. Even if the child has become a legal adult, they may be entitled to any child support that has not been paid. Parents who fail to pay child support may face legal fines, court sanctions, wage garnishment, liens, or even losing their driver’s license.

Q: Do You Have to Pay Child Support If You Have 50/50 Custody in Oklahoma?

A: In many cases where there is 50/50 or joint custody, there will be no child support obligation. However, child support may still be required in some situations, like if one parent’s income is significantly higher than the others or if there are other factors such as health care premiums or childcare expenses. The knowledgeable team at Eagan Law Office can help you determine how much child support you are entitled to.

Q: How Long Does a Parent Have to Pay Child Support in Oklahoma?

A: A parent is responsible for paying child support until the child is 18 years old. However, if the child is still in high school at that time, child support is required until they graduate or turn 19 years old, whichever comes first. If the parents have more than one child, child support must be recalculated when each child is no longer eligible to receive support. Payments must continue until all children are 18 years old or have graduated high school.

Q: How Much Does an Oklahoma Child Support Lawyer Cost?

A: The cost of a child support lawyer in Oklahoma can vary depending on several different factors. It’s important to consider the lawyer’s location and experience level. You should also consider the lawyer’s fee structure. Some lawyers charge a flat fee for their services, and some may charge an hourly fee. You should always discuss the fee structure with your attorney during the consultation.

Consult With an Okmulgee Child Support Lawyer

All children in Oklahoma have a legal right to financial support from both parents. Whether you are paying child support or receiving it, knowing the laws can help. However, the process can become complicated, and child support is often a contested issue. If you have concerns or questions about child support, it’s essential to get the help of a skillful child support lawyer.

At Eagan Law Office, our attorneys’ focus is always on the family. We have the knowledge and experience to provide accurate, up-to-date answers about your specific situation and guide you through your child support case with the utmost care. Our team can make sure you get compassionate representation tailored to your family, so your child receives the financial support they need in a timely manner. Contact our office