What is child support?

Child support is a payment made from one spouse to another for the support of their children after a divorce or separation.  Child support payment amounts are determined in California under the uniform child support guideline set forth in California Family Code § 4050 et seq.  The guideline factors include the spouses’ incomes and the custody arrangements for the children.  The amount of support established under the guideline is presumed correct.  However, this presumption may be rebutted with evidence that the application of the formula would be unjust or inappropriate due to special circumstances in the case, such as when children have expensive medical needs that require additional support.

To learn more about child support law in California, contact our San Jose/Santa Clara child support attorneys today for a free consultation.