St. Louis Child Support Lawyers

Child support plays a critical role in ensuring a child and their custodial parent have the financial means to provide them with a stable, secure life. Unfortunately, child support is also among the most hotly-contested family law issues. If you’re seeking support or are being asked to pay it, having competent legal counsel in your corner is paramount. Contact the knowledgeable and skilled St. Louis child support lawyers here at the Stobie Family Law Group for your initial consultation today.

Family Lawyers Serving Families in St. Louis, Missouri

Here at the Stobie Family Law Group, our St. Louis family lawyers take pride in effectively representing families facing child support-related issues in Missouri. We understand that the outcome of your case will likely impact your family for years to come, which is why you have our pledge to effectively represent you and your interests, every step of the way.

What Does Child Support Cover in Missouri?

Child support in Missouri is designed to help cover the essential expenses necessary for a child’s well-being and development. Specifically, child support can cover:

• Basic necessities such as food, clothing, and housing to ensure the child has a stable living environment.
• Health care costs, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as any out-of-pocket expenses related to the child’s health.
• Educational expenses, which can include school supplies, tuition (in some cases), and extracurricular activities, such as sports or tutoring.
• Child care costs, especially when the custodial parent is working or attending school.
• Transportation costs, including expenses related to commuting for visitation, extracurricular activities, or school.
• Special needs expenses, if the child requires additional care due to medical conditions or disabilities.

Importantly, this list is not exhaustive, and the exact items covered can vary based on the court’s order or agreement between the parents.

How is Child Support Determined in Missouri?

In Missouri, child support is calculated based on a formula known as Form 14, which considers several key factors to ensure a fair and accurate assessment. These factors include:

• Income of both parents: The combined gross income of both parents is used to determine the total financial resources available for the child.
• Parenting time: The amount of time each parent spends with the child can influence the child support amount, with adjustments made based on the custody arrangement.
• Health insurance and medical costs: The court considers who provides the child’s health insurance and any additional medical expenses.
• Child care costs: If the custodial parent incurs costs for childcare due to work or school, these expenses are factored into the calculation.
• Educational and extracurricular needs: If the child is attending a private school or requires specific extracurricular activities, these costs may be included.
• Special needs: Additional support may be required if the child has any medical or developmental special needs.

The Missouri courts strive to ensure that the child maintains the same standard of living as if the parents were still together, while also balancing each parent’s financial capability. Our skilled child support lawyers can effectively advocate on behalf of you and your child to help ensure your interests are protected at every turn.

When Does Child Support End in Missouri?

In Missouri, child support typically ends when the child turns 18 years old, but there are several important exceptions:

• If the child is still attending high school after turning 18, support continues until the child graduates or turns 21, whichever comes first.
• Post-secondary education: Child support may extend beyond 18 if the child is enrolled in college or vocational training and meets certain criteria, such as maintaining a full-time student status and providing proof of enrollment.
• Emancipation: Child support can terminate early if the child becomes emancipated, marries, joins the military, or becomes self-supporting before reaching the age of 18.
• Special needs: If the child has a physical or mental disability that prevents them from becoming self-sufficient, support may be extended indefinitely.

In any case, modifications to child support may be requested if there are significant changes in the circumstances of either the parent or the child.

Contact Our St. Louis Family Law Attorneys Today

The bottom line is that you should never face any family law matter, including those involving child support, without a skilled team of lawyers in your corner. Fortunately, if you’re reading this, you’ve come to the right place. Contact the Stobie Family Law Group today so we can begin working on your case and advocating for your family’s future.