Getting Fair Support And Quality Time With Your Children
Parents who divorce or who are no longer together an face many changes in the way they are able to parent. Many people worry that because of logistics, such as working odd hours, they will not get to see and spend time with their kids. Finances also change after a breakup, and it’s normal for parents to worry about the amount of money that will be available for their children’s upbringing.
I am attorney Tyler L. Merrill. As an experienced Seattle family law attorney, I understand these fears and concerns. As the founder and principal of my firm, Law Office of Tyler L. Merrill, I will work one-on-one with you. I will be there to answer questions and explain your options about child support after divorce and custody negotiations.
Factors That Determine Washington State Custody
If you and your spouse know your family schedules and have a basic level of agreement as to where the child or children will live and when each parent will spend time with the children, you may be able to avoid having a judge make this decision. Agreements about child custody and visitation rights (parenting time) that are made outside of court are called mediated or negotiated settlements.
Things a court considers when making these determinations are based on several variables, including:
- What is in the best interest of the child or children
- The ability of each parent to provide for the child or children
- The ability of each parent to spend time with the child or children
- The family dynamics
- The wishes expressed by children over 12
With years of experience helping parents in many different situations, I can advise you as to how best to approach your arrangements. I can help you through mediation, negotiation or, if need be, in court. As a small firm, I am dedicated to ensuring you get personal, responsive and accessible legal representation during the dissolution of your marriage or other family law matter.
What Determines The Amount Of Child Support?
In Washington, the amount of child support a parent pays or receives is calculated using a formula that is based on two main factors:
- How much time each parent spends with the child
- What each parent’s income is
In most cases the parent who does not have physical custody, meaning that the child does not live with this parent, pays support. This is because it is assumed the parent that the child lives with is paying for the child’s basic needs already. Shared expenses usually include medical, dental, travel and educational expenses. A judge approves the child support amount which then becomes a court order. In some cases, the amount of child support can later be changed or modified.
Get Personal Legal Support And Representation
As a sole practitioner, I offer accessible and flexible representation. Meet with me for a free 30-minute consultation to get answers to your questions about Seattle child custody and child financial support. We can chat, and you can see if I am a good fit for you and your issue. Call 206-627-4436 or send me an email at the firm, and I will reach out to you.