If your divorce agreement involves child support matters, it is important that you understand what to expect in the process ahead. To learn more about how child support is determined in New York, continue reading. For assistance with child support matters, do not hesitate to contact our Hempstead divorce lawyer to learn how we can guide you through each step of the legal process ahead. Here are some questions you may have regarding how child support works in New York:
What should I know about the Child Support Standards Act in New York state?
Courts will consider various factors when determining a child support agreement. However, courts will always follow the New York Child Support Standards Act. This act seeks to fairly and justly determine the financial cost of raising a child. The act will take a percentage of the combined income between parents of up to $148,000. From there, they will proportionally distribute the support between both parents.
Depending on the number of children the couple has, the percentages will vary. They are as follows:
- One child: 17%
- Two children: 25%
- Three children: 29%
- Four children: 31%
- Five or more children: at least 35%
How do New York courts determine child support?
New York courts will consider a range of additional factors when determining child support. The courts’ goal of child support is to ensure that the child retains their standard of living, despite the divorce. This is why courts will examine each situation on a case-by-case basis. They will work to determine what is best for each family’s individual situation.
New York courts will consider the following factors when determining child support:
- Tax consequences
- Your child’s age and health
- Your child custody agreement
- Your child’s education
- Both parents’ education and earning capacity
- Both parents’ yearly income
- Whether your child has any special needs
- The overall cost of raising your specific child
- Whether either parent has any debts or liabilities
It is also important to understand that Nassau County courts will take into consideration any additional factors that they deem relevant in order to reach a child support settlement. If you are seeking child support or if you will likely be paying child support, our firm is prepared to assist you. To learn more about our services, give our firm a call to schedule your initial consultation. We are looking forward to hearing from you.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW YORK FIRM
Barrows Levy PLLC is a dedicated New York law firm focused on providing quality legal services to clients in New York City and Long Island. If you require a lawyer who has notable experience handling family and estate planning matters, we are available to help. Contact Barrows Levy PLLC to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys today.
