Divorce and Child Support in Macomb, Michigan

One of the most stressful parts of divorce is handling matters relating to children. When you’re looking for divorce lawyers in Macomb, Michigan, how they deal with child support compensation is of the utmost importance. Here at The Law Firm of Victoria, we strive to help our clients understand the complexities of child support law and to make sure the children of divorce are provided for.

Child Support in Michigan

Similar to other states, child support in Michigan is determined by a state Child Support Formula. This formula uses eight items to calculate the amount of support received for each child:

• Spousal assets and income
• Allowable tax deductions
• Number of children
• The amount of time spent with each parent
• Healthcare/Medical obligations including insurance premiums
• Third-party custodian calculations
• Agreements involving property
• Arrearage guidelines

In Michigan, child support ceases when the dependent turns 18 years old or upon their high school graduation, whichever comes first. At age 19 ½ support stops even if the child hasn’t graduated high school. Often, childcare expenses are included in child support amounts. If this is the case, amounts designated for child/daycare services are terminated after the child turns 12 years old.

Child support payments are generally ensured by automatically withholding amounts from the paying party’s paychecks. Imputation of income is also a possibility, particularly in cases where the spouse refuses to work to get out of paying child support. This means that the courts can use the person’s ability to earn rather than their actual income to compute child support amounts. The goal is to reach an amount that actually meets the child’s needs.

Give us a call at (248) 780-1775 or complete our convenient online form to schedule your consultation today.

Legal Custody Rights and Obligations in Macomb, Michigan

Going through a divorce can be an emotionally trying and confusing process. If the court grants you “legal custody” of one or more of your children, it is crucial that you understand what privileges you now enjoy, and what responsibilities now fall solely on you. The Law Firm of Victoria appreciates the difficulties associated with making life-altering decisions that will potentially affect your children for the rest of their lives. Our staff of skilled child custody lawyers in Macomb, Michigan is committed to helping you understand what is going on at every phase so you can make the best possible decisions for your children under the circumstances.

Areas of Coverage

When a couple who is divorcing is unable to make arrangements on their own concerning how to raise their children, the court will have to intervene and grant one or both parents legal custody. Legal custody in Michigan covers crucial areas that affect children’s:

• Wellbeing: Who will care for the child and keep them safe?
• Healthcare: Who is responsible for making healthcare decisions for the child?
• Education: What will the child’s formal schooling look like?
• Religion: Will the child continue or begin to receive religious training?

When deciding legal custody for a child in Michigan, the court bases its decision on what is in the best interests of the child. Making this decision in finality is very difficult, so the court reserves the right to adjust or modify decisions about legal custody if new facts emerge or circumstances change for either parent.

Don’t Go it Alone

Most parents in the midst of divorce want what is best for their children. However, the intensely emotional nature of the event can sometimes cloud judgment. The Law Firm of Victoria is experienced in all facets of legal custody hearings and court proceedings. Contact us today at (248) 780-1775, and receive an initial consultation on your case for just $85.