Determining Child Support in Indiana

Indiana child support in cases of divorce and separation will take into account the circumstances of both parents in determining an amount. The state has standards for deciding how much is fair and appropriate based on the income and financial situations of the parties. That said, the court has discretion to take into consideration all of the facts and determine support that is higher or lower than the recommended award if the case warrants it.

Indiana Child Support

Figuring out how much child support you will receive or pay can help you determine your monthly budget and what you can afford after the end of a marriage. In an Indiana child custody and support case, to determine the amount of child support, the court will look at the following factors:

How much income from work and other sources each of the parents earns;
The amount of time the child or children reside with each of the parents;
Whether either or both parents pay for costs such as child care and medical insurance for the child or children; and
Any other considerations the court determines relevant to your case.

If both parents can agree to a child support amount, the court does not need to get involved. The court's interest in your support agreement is to make sure that it is fair, that the welfare of the child is protected and that the agreement conforms with established Indiana Child Support Guidelines. It is a good idea to use a child support calculator based on Indiana standards to determine what the court would likely grant in your case. This will help you come to a fair number and one that is in line with the law. If you and your ex-spouse can come to an agreement, doing so can help establish an amicable tone to handling child rearing responsibilities from separate households.

Getting Legal Assistance

An Indiana family law attorney can help you assert your rights in a child custody and support case. Divorce and custody issues can be emotional and messy. Having an attorney handle your case can help ease some of the tensions, making it easier to get down to the important matter of coming to an agreement. You will be able to face your situation with more confidence and security knowing your attorney can handle the matter for you.

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