Moving through the divorce process in Oregon is rarely a straightforward experience. As you and your spouse start to untangle your lives from one another, you will need to make several decisions that carry lasting consequences and shape the course of your newly independent lives. Divorcing parents face additional challenges, as negotiations about child custody and child support can become emotional and heated. Even if you and your spouse intend to separate on amicable terms, navigating issues involving your children can be challenging. Most people benefit from working with an experienced divorce and family law attorney during this difficult time, as their lawyer can provide them with the information, strategies, and support they need to make these decisions with greater certainty and confidence. Below are just a few of the ways that a Portland family law attorney can help you navigate child support issues as you lay a solid foundation for a brighter future.
Understanding Child Support in Oregon
Nearly all divorces involving children include an order for child support. Oregon courts recognize that both parents bear the financial duty to provide for and support their children, even if one parent is not the primary custodial parent. In most cases, the court will order the non-custodial parent to make monthly payments to the custodial parent. This payment is designed to assist with the costs associated with raising the child and providing a stable, nurturing, and enriching environment in which the child may thrive. As a parent going through a divorce, child support and child custody matters may seem overwhelming. However, it is essential to recognize that you never have to be alone during this process. Enlisting the guidance of a trusted and compassionate family law attorney is the best way to help you understand the ins and outs of child support so you can make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.
How Oregon Courts Determine Child Support
It is common to wonder what factors are used to calculate a parent’s monthly child support obligation. Oregon courts acknowledge that every family is different, so they use several different factors to assess the child’s needs and arrive at an appropriate amount of monthly support. In general, the courts will look at the income of each parent, including spousal support if applicable, how much overnight parenting time each party has, childcare expenses, health insurance costs, the number of children, and whether there are special or unique circumstances requiring additional support. It is natural to feel overwhelmed by the thought of paying child support, so speak to your attorney to gain a better understanding of what your support obligations might look like.
Enforcing a Child Support Order in Oregon
As the recipient of court-ordered child support, you rely on these monthly payments to help cover your expenses. If your ex-spouse has not upheld their child support obligations, you have the right to seek enforcement from the Oregon child support division. It is best to discuss the details of your situation with a knowledgeable Portland family law attorney to determine the most appropriate and strategic course of action. Together, you can identify a clear path forward to ensure you receive the child support payments you need to support and raise your child.
Pursuing a Child Support Modification
Oregon courts recognize that circumstances change, and people may find themselves unable to fulfill their child support obligations. If you have experienced the sudden loss of a job or other reliable source of income, you may worry that you can no longer afford to make monthly child support payments to your ex-spouse. Talk to your attorney about how to pursue a modification for an existing child support order. You will need to complete paperwork and provide documentation showing any changes to your economic situation. The court will review your request and determine whether a modification is warranted. Enlisting the guidance of a divorce and family law attorney can give you the reassurance and confidence you need to move through this process.
Protecting You and Your Child’s Best Interests
Life changes like divorce are rarely simple or easy. As you move through each step to ensure that you and your children have the resources and support you need to enjoy a bright and stable future, it is worth enlisting the help of an experienced attorney who can provide recommendations and answers along the way. Your attorney understands the emotional nature of the divorce process and takes pride in giving you the information and tools you need to move forward and feel hopeful about the future. Whether you are in the early stages of negotiating a child support order or need help pursuing a modification to an existing child support order, your attorney is prepared to offer you trusted and effective counsel to help you achieve your desired outcome.
Call Kuzma Law, LLC, today at (503) 406-1787 to speak with a dedicated and compassionate Portland divorce and child support attorney.
