Child Support Legal Services In Massachusetts
Child support ensures children get financial care no matter what happens between parents. Massachusetts courts follow strict rules to set fair support amounts. At Ohlson & Ohlson, Attorneys at Law, our attorneys help parents navigate child support cases in Middlesex, Suffolk and Essex counties.
How Courts Calculate Support Amounts
Massachusetts judges use specific guidelines to determine child support payments. They look at several important factors to create fair orders for your family. Courts consider these key elements:
- Number of children: More children typically mean higher support amounts
- Children’s ages: Older children often have higher living costs
- Parents’ gross income: Both parents’ weekly and total earnings matter
- Essential expenses: Health insurance, daycare and special needs costs
- Custody arrangements: Time spent with each parent affects calculations
These guidelines help create consistent support orders across different cases.
Making Changes To Support Orders
Life changes can make current support orders unfair or impossible to follow. You can ask courts to modify support amounts when circumstances change significantly.
Common reasons for modifications include a 25% increase or decrease in either parent’s income. Changes in children’s needs also justify modifications. Job loss, disability or other major financial shifts can affect a parent’s ability to pay.
When Does Child Support Stop
Child support usually ends when children turn 18 years old. However, support can continue longer in certain situations. Courts may order support until age 21 if the child depends on a parent financially.
Support extends to age 23 if the child attends college full time. Children with disabilities that require ongoing parental support may receive support indefinitely beyond age 23.
Secure Your Child’s Financial Future
Child support cases affect your family’s financial security for years. You need attorneys who understand Massachusetts guidelines and fight for fair outcomes. At Ohlson & Ohlson, Attorneys at Law, we have the experience you need. Give us a call at 781-214-7398 or send an email for a free consultation. We help families throughout Middlesex, Suffolk and Essex counties with all child support matters.