Understanding Child Support Laws in Spartanburg, SC
Child support is a mandated financial contribution typically paid by the non-custodial parent to assist with the costs of raising their children. While often settled during divorce proceedings, the establishment of paternity and maternity are the only prerequisites for requesting support payments.
South Carolina Child Support Laws: An Overview
South Carolina has its own distinctive guidelines for handling child support. One of the primary methods used in South Carolina for determining the amount of support is the “income share” model. This model is intended to ensure both the parents with custody and non-custodial parents contribute towards their child’s financial needs. The child support formula in South Carolina takes into consideration shared custody scenarios, linking the support payment amounts directly with the custody arrangement.
Certain situations, such as work-related childcare costs, the number of other children in the home, and exceptional medical expenses are also factored into these determinations in South Carolina. These costs may be considered as additional expenses on top of the basic child support order.
Determining the amount of support in Spartanburg, SC
In a divorce case, the court has the authority to issue orders regarding the care, custody, and maintenance of the children at any stage, even post-final judgment. These decisions are made based on various factors, including the circumstances of the parties involved, the nature of the case, and the best interests of the children. Our attorneys at Sentinel Law Firm strive to ensure these orders are fair, equitable, and just for all parties involved.
Child support in South Carolina can be decided in two ways: through a mutual support agreement between the parents outside of court, or through a child support order issued by a South Carolina family court. Even if the parents decide on an amount between themselves, a court can override that amount if they find it in the best interests of the child.
Our Spartanburg Family Law Practice Areas
Prenuptial Agreements
Help planning and creating prenuptial agreements
Divorce Law
Navigating the process of divorce in South Carolina
Child Custody
Assistance in Child Custody Matters in South Carolina
Child Support
Establishing fair support for children in divorced families
Alimony
Understanding Spousal Support in South Carolina
FAQs -
Child Support Law in South Carolina
How can child support orders be changed in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances Some common examples include: loss of employment, change in income, changes in physical custody, or change in the needs of the child.
How can Sentinel Law Firm assist with my child support case in Spartanburg, SC?
Our attorneys at Sentinel Law Firm can guide you through the process of establishing, enforcing, or modifying a child support order. We strive to educate our clients on the process so that they can know what to do moving forward.
What happens if a parent fails to pay child support in South Carolina?
The most common result is the filing of a Motion for Rule To Show Cause Hearing. At this hearing, a judge may order a range of serious consequences, including fines, wage garnishment, and even jail time. If you are having trouble receiving child support payments, our attorneys at Sentinel Law Firm can help you with enforcement actions.
Can child support cover expenses beyond basic living costs?
Yes, South Carolina allows for child support to cover extraordinary expenses such as childcare costs, medical expenses, and educational costs, in addition to basic living expenses. Whether or not these additional expenses are covered depends on several factors, including the child’s previous standard of living and the non-custodial parent’s ability to afford such expenses.
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