The Columbus family lawyers at Gavvl make solving child support issues in Columbus, Ohio, simpler and more affordable. Leveraging technology and a client-focused model, we provide high-quality divorce assistance tailored to your needs – without stress and financial worry.
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There is a standard Ohio child support calculation process. However, several factors can affect support determinations. You might experience complications if you are not prepared. Here’s a guide to help you confidently move through Franklin County’s child support system.
Establishing a child support order begins with applying for child support services through Franklin County Child Support Enforcement (FCCSE). You must provide information about yourself, your child, and the other parent.
If the parents are unmarried, paternity must be established. In Columbus, this can be done through voluntary acknowledgment or DNA testing to obtain a court order if there is a dispute.
FCCSE will calculate the child support amount using the Ohio Child Support Calculator. If the amount is disagreeable, the case will proceed to court for a judge to determine the appropriate amount.
If there are any disputed details in the child support determination or either party is seeking a deviation from the guidelines, you may go to court.
Once child support is calculated and an order is established, both parents must adhere to the terms set forth by the court or Franklin County Child Support Enforcement. The order will specify the amount to be paid, the payment schedule, and any additional requirements, such as health insurance coverage for the child.
Failure to comply can result in enforcement actions, including wage garnishment, license suspension, or other legal penalties.
Franklin County Child Support Enforcement is the primary agency responsible for handling child support matters in Columbus, Ohio. However, when you take your family law case to court, it will be managed in the Franklin County Court of Domestic Relations.
There are many resources to help you understand child support in Ohio. The Ohio Supreme Court also provides several standard forms and templates for child support cases.
Child support is typically calculated based on the income of both parents, the number of children, and Ohio’s Child Support Guidelines.
Custody arrangements can impact child support calculations. Generally, the parent with primary residential custody receives child support from the non-custodial parent.
Expenses like childcare, extracurricular activities, and private school tuition might be addressed in the child support order or through separate agreements. The costs are typically split according to what the judge determines is fair. If there is an income disparity, one parent may be required to pay more of these costs than the other.
Child support payments are typically made through a state child support enforcement agency, which can withhold the amount directly from the paying parent’s wages. The state also approves various electronic payment methods.
If a parent fails to pay child support, enforcement actions can be taken, such as wage garnishment, intercepting tax refunds, suspending driver’s licenses, or even taking legal action, which could result in fines or jail time.
You can dispute actions in your child support case by requesting a state hearing through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Both custodial and non-custodial parents can request a hearing if they believe the child support agency has made errors, delayed actions, or mishandled their case. Talk to your Columbus child support lawyer about the steps you must take to dispute your case.
After your initial consultation with a Gavvl attorney, you’ll get a clear quote for their services and can discuss payment options if needed. Once you pay the invoice, you’ll quickly receive a Client Agreement to sign online. Your family attorney will contact you soon after to start working on your case.
Throughout the process, Gavvl provides thorough support and real-time updates, so you’ll always stay informed and confident.
Our child support attorneys serve clients throughout Central Ohio, including: