When to Hire an Attorney for Child Support Help
Navigating child support issues can be challenging and emotionally taxing. Whether you are seeking to establish, modify, or enforce a child support order, having the right legal support is crucial to ensure fair and accurate arrangements. Understanding when to hire an attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Understanding Child Support
Child support is a financial obligation paid by one parent to another to contribute to the costs of raising their child. It is intended to cover necessities such as housing, food, education, and medical care. The amount and terms of child support are determined based on various factors, including the parents' income, the child's needs, and state guidelines.
When to Consider Hiring an Attorney for Child Support Help
Establishing Child Support
- Complex Financial Situations: If the other parent has a complicated financial situation, such as self-employment or multiple income sources, an attorney can help ensure that all income is accurately accounted for in the support calculation.
- Disputed Paternity: When paternity is in question, establishing legal fatherhood is the first step. An attorney can guide you through the legal process of establishing paternity and subsequently, child support.
Modifying Child Support
- Changes in Income: If you or the other parent experience a significant change in income, an attorney can help you file for a modification of the child support order to reflect the new financial circumstances.
- Changes in Child's Needs: As children grow, their needs change. If there are substantial changes in your child's needs, such as increased medical or educational expenses, an attorney can assist in modifying the support order accordingly.
Enforcing Child Support Orders
- Non-Payment Issues: If the other parent is not complying with the child support order, an attorney can take legal action to enforce the order and ensure that you receive the support owed to you.
- Contempt of Court: In cases where non-payment is persistent and deliberate, an attorney can file a motion for contempt of court, which may result in penalties for the non-paying parent.
Disputes and Negotiations
- Disagreements Over Amounts: If you and the other parent cannot agree on the amount of child support, an attorney can represent your interests and negotiate a fair arrangement.
- Mediation and Settlement: An attorney can help facilitate mediation sessions to reach an amicable agreement without the need for a contentious court battle.
Legal and Procedural Guidance
- Understanding Legal Rights: An attorney can provide clarity on your legal rights and responsibilities regarding child support, ensuring that you are well-informed throughout the process.
- Navigating Court Procedures: From filing the necessary paperwork to representing you in court, an attorney handles all legal procedures, reducing the stress and complexity of the process.
The Benefits of Hiring an Attorney
- Expert Knowledge: Attorneys specializing in family law have in-depth knowledge of child support laws and can provide expert guidance tailored to your situation.
- Accurate Calculations: Legal professionals ensure that child support calculations are accurate and fair, considering all relevant factors.
- Effective Advocacy: Attorneys advocate on your behalf, whether in negotiations or court proceedings, to protect your interests and secure a favorable outcome.
Hiring an attorney for child support help is essential to ensure fair and accurate support arrangements. Whether you are establishing, modifying, or enforcing a child support order, professional legal assistance can significantly impact the outcome of your case. If you need help with child support issues, contact LaFortune & LaFortune, Attorneys At Law for a consultation. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing the support and expertise you need to navigate this challenging process.






