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Best Child Support Lawyers in Brighton, MI

When families go through divorce or separation, one of the most important and often most emotional topics to resolve is child support. At Gerkin & Decker, PC, our experienced child support attorneys provide clear legal guidance and compassionate advocacy to help parents protect their children's best interests while ensuring fair and lawful financial arrangements.

As a trusted family law firm serving Livingston County, we understand that every family's needs are unique. Whether you're establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support order, our attorneys are here to guide you through Michigan's child support laws and procedures.

If you're looking for reliable legal counsel in your area, contact us today to schedule a consultation or call us directly at (810) 222-6424.

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How Child Support Works in Michigan

Child support is designed to make sure children continue to receive financial support from both parents after a separation or divorce. In Michigan, these payments help cover essential expenses such as housing, food, clothing, healthcare, and education. The goal is to maintain stability for the child and balance financial responsibility between both parents.

How Michigan Courts Calculate Child Support

The amount of child support ordered by the court is based on Michigan's Child Support Formula, which considers several key factors:

Income of Both Parents: The combined income of both parents—wages, bonuses, commissions, and self-employment earnings—is used to determine how much each parent contributes.
Number of Overnights: The amount of time a child spends with each parent directly affects the calculation. More overnight parenting time can reduce the paying parent's financial obligation.
Healthcare and Childcare Costs: Health insurance premiums, uncovered medical expenses, and regular childcare or after-school costs are factored into the total amount.
Additional Needs of the Child: Extra expenses related to education, medical care, or special needs can increase the overall support amount.
Family Circumstances: The court may also consider factors such as other dependents, living arrangements, and each parent's ability to provide stable care.

By combining these elements, Michigan's system aims to create fair, consistent child support orders that meet the needs of the child while taking into account each parent's financial situation.

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How Our Brighton Child Support Attorneys Can Help

Brighton’s Best Child Support Attorneys | Gerkin & Decker - probate-image-1

Child support cases can be complex and emotionally charged, especially when your family's future is at stake. At Gerkin & Decker, PC, our child support attorneys provide clear, compassionate guidance to help you understand your options, protect your rights, and make informed decisions for your family. We help parents with:

Establishing Child Support

Our team handles all necessary filings, financial disclosures, and court appearances to help you secure a fair and accurate order that reflects your family's true needs.

Modifying Child Support Orders

When jobs change, income fluctuates, or parenting schedules evolve, we help you petition the court to adjust your existing order so it continues to be fair and manageable for everyone involved.

Enforcing Court Orders

If a parent isn't meeting their child support obligations, we take swift, strategic action to uphold the court's decision. We'll work to recover missed payments and protect your child's financial security through proper legal channels.

Negotiation & Mediation

Whenever possible, our attorneys strive to resolve child support issues through open communication and cooperation. We want to reach fair, practical agreements that minimize conflict and keep the focus on your child's well-being.

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Child Support in Michigan FAQs

What happens if my co-parent and I agree on child support without going to court?

It's possible for parents to agree on child support outside of court, but it's important to make that agreement legally binding. Without a formal court order, the agreement can't be enforced if one parent stops paying. Our attorneys can help you put your agreement into writing and file it properly so it's recognized and protected under Michigan law.

Can child support cover more than just basic expenses?

Yes. While child support is often thought of as covering food, clothing, and shelter, it can also help pay for things like extracurricular activities, school supplies, and medical expenses. Michigan courts look at what's reasonable for the child's overall well-being, not just the basics, so support may include costs that help your child thrive and stay active.

How often can a child support order be reviewed or changed?

In Michigan, either parent can request a review of their child support order every three years, or sooner if there has been a major change in circumstances, such as a new job, job loss, or a change in custody. If you think your current order no longer fits your situation, our team can help you determine whether a modification makes sense.

What if the other parent lives in a different state?

Child support can still be established and enforced even if parents live in different states. Michigan works with other states to make sure payments are handled correctly and on time. Our attorneys can guide you through the process and help coordinate with the proper agencies to keep things running smoothly.

How often can a child support order be reviewed or changed?

Will child support automatically stop when my child turns 18?

Not always. In Michigan, support usually ends when a child turns 18, but it can continue until age 19 if the child is still in high school and living at home. We can review your order and explain exactly when it ends or help you take steps to modify or terminate it when the time comes.

Speak with a Brighton Lawyer for Child Support

If you're dealing with child support questions or concerns, getting clear legal guidance can make all the difference. Our team at Gerkin & Decker, PC, is here to help you understand your rights and find a fair path forward for your family. Call (810) 222-6424 or contact us online to speak with an attorney today.

Schedule a Legal Consultation

To learn how Gerkin & Decker, P.C. can effectively administer your trust and probate in Brighton, Hartland, Howell, Fowlerville, Fenton, and the surrounding areas, call us at (810) 222-6424. You can speak directly to an attorney and understand your rights before you make a decision.

Get in Touch With Our Team

When facing legal challenges, choose a law firm that truly understands the importance of community support. At Gerkin & Decker, our deep roots in Livingston County reflect our dedication to serving the hardworking people of our area. Whether you need assistance with civil issues, estate planning, probate, or business matters, we offer a practical and honest approach to every case. Experience personalized legal solutions with the integrity and dedication you deserve from a trusted local firm. Contact Gerkin & Decker today for clear guidance and reliable legal advice.

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