Both parents have financial and legal obligations to support their children, regardless of marital or relationship status and living arrangements. Maryland’s Family Law Code governs child support laws and establishes mandatory support guidelines.
The statutes base calculations on an income-sharing model, which determines the amount the non-custodial parent must pay to the other parent for the child’s needs and overall well-being. Our seasoned support attorneys can assist you with questions and concerns about permanent child support in Frederick.
Eligibility for child support arises when the parents of the children are living apart. Child support obligations in the state generally last until your child turns 18 and may continue if they are 18 years old but are still enrolled in high school. If there is a dispute over parentage, the Court will order a paternity test before issuing any child support or custody orders.
If your child might be an adult who has a disability that will render them unable to be employed or otherwise financially support themselves, you can seek child support in Frederick on a permanent basis. The family Court will evaluate your child’s disability and assess their financial requirements to ensure all of their healthcare and other essential needs are met. Both parents are legally obligated to contribute to their child’s financial support even after the child turns 18 and graduates from high school, even if one is not actively involved in their child’s life, if the court finds the child is an “adult destitute child.”
The state’s Child Support Administration, or CSA, is a branch of the Department of Human Services. They handle the establishment, modification, enforcement, and collection of child support payments.
The agency follows the statutory child support guidelines in most cases, as outlined in Maryland Family Law § 12-202, and presumes the calculation under the statute is correct unless there is evidence to the contrary. Factors used in the calculation include:
Support obligations typically continue until your child’s 18th birthday. However, under certain circumstances, such as if your child is still in high school, the Court can extend payments until their 19th birthday.
Family Courts may also order support to continue because of disabilities or special needs. After reviewing your specifics, our knowledgeable lawyers in Frederick can answer your questions about permanent child support orders.
CSA enforces child support orders using tools, such as wage garnishment and intercepting tax refunds. They also place liens on property and suspend driver’s licenses. Payments usually go through the state’s disbursement unit.
Adjustments to child support orders require formal requests and approval from a family Court judge. The state allows the Court to modify orders after the payer or receiver files a motion showing a material change in circumstances. The changes apply from the date either party petitions the Court for modification, and the party cannot seek retroactive payments.
Past-due payments that accrue before the filing are not eligible for elimination through the modification. Our competent lawyers in Frederick can help with modifications to a permanent support order and other needs related to your child.
Permanent child support in Frederick is a fundamental element of family law. The orders aim to ensure that children receive the financial support necessary for their overall well-being following a finding that they are an adult destitute child.
If you are navigating the often confusing and challenging family Court matters, the assistance of our proficient and experienced legal professionals can make all the difference. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and explore your options.
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