Child Support in California

At Voloshko Law Office, PC in Walnut Creek, CA, our family law attorneys help clients establish, modify, and enforce child support orders throughout the Bay Area, including Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, San Francisco, and San Mateo counties. Child support ensures both parents contribute to the child's financial needs.

1. Purpose of Child Support

Child support ensures both parents contribute to the child's financial needs, including housing, food, clothing, education, and medical care.

2. Calculating Child Support

California uses a statewide formula outlined in Family Code Section 4055, which considers:

   •    Each parent's income

   •    Time spent with the child (custody/visitation schedule)

   •    Tax filing status

   •    Deductions (e.g., mandatory retirement contributions, health insurance premiums, child support for other children)

3. Filing for Child Support

   •    File a Request for Order if child support is not already established.

   •    The court may issue a child support order after reviewing financial information.

4. Duration of Child Support

   •    Generally continues until the child turns 18 years old (or 19 if still in high school).

   •    Support may end earlier if the child:

   •    Marries

   •    Joins the military

   •    Is legally emancipated

5. Modifying Child Support

Child support can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as:

   •    Job loss

   •    Increase or decrease in income

   •    Changes in the custody arrangement

File a Request for Order to request a modification.

6. Enforcement of Child Support

   •    If a parent fails to pay, the California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) can assist with enforcement.

   •    Methods include wage garnishment, property liens, tax refund interception, and license suspension.

Contact Voloshko Law Office, PC at (925) 705-9796 or schedule a consultation to speak with a child support attorney in Walnut Creek, CA.