When going through the divorce process, one of the biggest hurdles you’ll have to overcome is the child support arrangement. Generally, the non-custodial parent pays child support to provide for the children, but many times the non-custodial parent is not happy with the thought of having to write this weekly check. When you’re working through the child support process, keep the following in mind.
The Child Benefits, Not the Spouse
You’d have to live under a rock to not realize that raising a child is extremely expensive. And this isn’t just because of the items you must purchase for the child. Factor in the cost of utilities, the maintenance of an automobile, the cost of food and medical care. The child support check does not necessarily go directly to the child but instead helps ease the burden of all expenses associated with raising a child.
Beyond the Basic Needs
Even though the child support payment is helping with the basic needs of the child, there are bound to be extras. Factor in the cost of sporting equipment, dance lessons, even money for a field trip or boy scout outings. The non-custodial parent may want to put some extra money aside from time to time, so when these expenses arise, the custodial parent isn’t expected to foot the entire bill.
Child support is a sensitive topic for those going through a divorce. The non-custodial parent generally thinks the amount ordered is too much, while the custodial parent may think the amount ordered won’t even touch the expenses incurred with raising a child. If parents can work together for the common good of the child, it could make the process much less emotional for all involved.
If you’re going through a divorce or are working through a child support agreement, contact us. We will sit down with you, answer all of your questions and concerns, and help you work towards an amicable agreement.
