Bethesda Child Support Lawyer

Divorce is stressful, not just for the parents, but for the children as well. Divorce can really shake up a family’s dynamics, not just emotionally but financially. Children need to be able to receive the proper financial support following a divorce, and sometimes, to make that happen, it requires working with our Bethesda, MD child support lawyer. Call Fait & DiLima, LLP to discover how our team can help you!

Bethesda, MD Child Support Lawyer

Divorces with children can complicate things, and both parents might have different ideas about what’s considered fair. Child support is a periodic payment made by one parent to help financially support a child following a divorce or separation. Child support helps pay for a child’s basic necessities, including food, shelter, education, and any medical services. Payments typically last until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school.

The actual process of calculating child support depends on how much income both parents make. When couples have an adjusted income of less than $30,000 per month, then a judge will use a parent’s actual income, adjusted for any preexisting child support paid or any alimony paid. Should a couple make more than $30,000, then the amount can vary depending on the parents’ financial situations, the child’s needs, and the child’s age.

Since child support can often be at the discretion of the judge without a clear-cut formula, legal representation is often recommended. While many divorced spouses are more than willing to pay child support, sometimes spouses may try to avoid paying child support or will try arguing for a much lower amount. The goal of our Bethesda child support lawyer isn’t to punish the divorced spouse but to make sure that a child receives proper financial care.

Our attorneys know how to mediate, and we strive to come up with a solution that works for both the parents and the child. However, when disputes arise, it might be necessary to pursue litigation and go to court.

Experience Matters In Child Support Cases

Whether you need a few afternoons of mediation or an aggressive attorney, you want our experienced team on your side.

• Our CEO and Managing Partner, Marjorie G. DiLima, brings over a decade of legal experience. She’s highly experienced when it comes to mediation, helping families avoid expensive and time-consuming litigation. During her legal career, she has received several awards, including being rated by Super Lawyers for the past 10 years.
• We have several positive testimonials from satisfied clients. We’re proud to help our clients at any and all stages of the process, from preparing and filing paperwork to providing legal representation should a case need to go to court.
• Our Chief Operating Officer and Senior Attorney brings over two decades of family law experience. Besides being a qualified litigator, she also specializes in dispute resolution and mediation.

Following a divorce or separation, it’s pivotal to make sure that your child is financially taken care of. Call Fait & DiLima, LLP today to work with our Bethesda child support lawyer!

Type Of Child Support Cases We Handle

We handle cases where child support must be established for the first time. This often happens during divorce proceedings or when parents who were never married seek a legal arrangement for financial support. Our work includes reviewing income records, expenses, and the needs of the child to help develop a fair and legally compliant arrangement. By clearly presenting all relevant financial information, we help parents address the key issues that influence the court’s decision.

Cases Involving Modifications To Existing Orders

Circumstances change, and sometimes a child support order no longer fits the situation. Whether income has increased or decreased, a child’s needs have grown, or other life events occur, we assist in seeking a formal modification. A Bethesda child support lawyer can prepare the required documentation and present a case that accurately reflects current conditions, helping ensure any adjustments are properly recognized by the court. We also assist with temporary changes when urgent financial situations arise.

Cases Involving Enforcement Of Orders

When child support payments are not being made, enforcement may be necessary. We handle matters where one parent needs to pursue overdue payments through wage garnishments, contempt actions, or other court-authorized methods. These situations require careful adherence to legal procedures to protect the rights of both the child and the parent entitled to receive support. We work to pursue the best course of action that promotes compliance while safeguarding the child’s well-being.

Cases Involving Interstate Or Out-of-jurisdiction Issues

Child support cases can involve parents who live in different states, which adds legal considerations related to jurisdiction. In these situations, our approach focuses on applying the correct state and federal laws to ensure the order is enforceable and payments are collected. A Bethesda child support lawyer experienced in these matters can help manage the filing and recognition of orders across state lines. We address the necessary legal filings to prevent unnecessary delays in support.

Cases Involving Special Needs And Unique Expenses

Some children require additional financial support due to medical conditions, educational programs, or other specific needs. We represent parents seeking to include these costs in the support calculation, whether through initial determinations or modifications. Our work addresses the documentation of expenses and the legal arguments needed to account for these circumstances, making sure that the child’s needs remain the primary focus throughout the process.

Cases Involving Disputes Over Income Calculation

In some cases, parents disagree on how income should be calculated for child support purposes. We handle cases involving self-employed parents, fluctuating income, bonuses, or non-traditional compensation. A Bethesda child support lawyer can help present accurate financial evidence so the calculation reflects the true ability to contribute to the child’s needs. We take the time to examine pay structures, business records, and benefits that may affect the final support amount.

At Fait & DiLima, LLP, we are committed to representing parents in a wide range of child support matters. Whether the goal is to establish a new order, modify an existing one, or address enforcement concerns, our team provides clear guidance and strong representation. If you need help with a child support matter, we encourage you to reach out so we can discuss the options available for your situation.

Common Reasons To Hire A Child Support Lawyer

Child support matters can have a lasting impact on both parents and children. While some families are able to reach agreements on their own, many situations require legal support to protect the interests of the child and provide clarity for both parents. Below are common reasons why working with a Bethesda child support lawyer may be necessary.

1. Establishing child support for the first time
   When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important issues is determining how financial support for the child will be structured. A lawyer can guide parents through the process of establishing a fair order that considers the child’s needs, household income, and other relevant factors.
2. Modifying existing child support orders
   Circumstances often change after an order is first issued. A parent may lose a job, receive a promotion, or face unexpected medical costs. Legal representation helps ensure modifications are handled properly, keeping the agreement fair and consistent with current financial realities.
3. Addressing unpaid support
   When child support is not paid as required, the child may suffer from lack of financial resources. Legal action may be needed to enforce the order and pursue past-due payments. A lawyer can file the necessary motions and represent the parent’s interests in court.
4. Clarifying parental responsibilities
   Child support disputes often involve questions about how expenses are divided, such as school fees, medical bills, or extracurricular activities. An attorney helps bring clarity to these issues, reducing the chance of future conflict between parents.
5. Ensuring the child’s best interests
   The core purpose of child support is to protect the child’s well-being. A Bethesda child support lawyer ensures that the child’s needs remain the priority throughout negotiations or hearings, giving parents confidence that the outcome serves the child above all else.
6. Handling interstate or jurisdictional issues
   In cases where parents live in different states, questions can arise about which court has authority. These matters can be complicated, but an attorney provides guidance to make sure the case proceeds in the proper legal venue.
7. Support during divorce proceedings
   Child support is often just one part of larger divorce proceedings. A lawyer can help align support discussions with custody arrangements, property division, and other family law matters, ensuring consistency across all aspects of the case.

At Fait & DiLima, LLP, we recognize how important child support arrangements are for families. These matters involve both financial security and the well-being of children, which is why having knowledgeable representation can make a meaningful difference.

If you are considering working with a Bethesda child support lawyer, we invite you to contact us. Together, we can review your situation, explain your options, and build a plan that supports both you and your child moving forward.

Bethesda Child Support Infographic

How Is Child Support Calculated

When parents separate or divorce, determining child support is an important step in providing financial stability for the children. The purpose of child support is to make sure both parents contribute fairly to the child’s needs, regardless of where the child lives most of the time. Each state uses specific guidelines to calculate these payments, taking into account both parents’ income and expenses. Working with a Bethesda child support lawyer can help us understand how these calculations apply to our situation and what to expect throughout the process.

What Factors Are Used To Calculate Child Support?

The court typically considers several financial factors when determining child support. These include each parent’s income, the number of children involved, healthcare costs, childcare expenses, and education needs. The goal is to create a fair balance between both parents based on their ability to provide. Other factors, such as alimony payments or existing support orders from previous relationships, can also influence the final amount. Judges use state guidelines to make sure the child’s needs are met without placing an unfair burden on either parent.

Does A Custody Arrangement Affect Child Support Payments?

Yes, custody has a direct impact on child support. If one parent has primary custody, the other parent usually provides payments to help cover the child’s daily expenses. When parents share custody more equally, the court adjusts the calculation to reflect the amount of time the child spends with each parent. This approach ensures that both households can meet the child’s needs. A Bethesda child support lawyer can help clarify how different custody arrangements may influence payment amounts in our specific case.

How Does Income Factor Into Child Support Calculations?

Income is one of the most important elements in determining child support. Courts look at all forms of income, including wages, bonuses, commissions, and self-employment earnings. In some cases, they may also consider benefits such as rental income, investments, or pensions. If one parent is unemployed or underemployed, the court might estimate what they could earn based on work history or qualifications. The total combined income is then used to calculate a percentage that aligns with the state’s child support guidelines.

Can Child Support Amounts Change Over Time?

Yes, child support orders can be modified if there is a significant change in circumstances. For example, if one parent loses a job, gets a promotion, or experiences changes in medical or childcare costs, either parent can request a review. The court will look at updated financial information and decide whether the payment amount should be increased or decreased. It’s important to keep records of any major financial changes to support modification requests. Regular reviews also help make sure the child’s needs are being met as they grow.

Child support calculations are meant to create a fair and consistent system that benefits both the parents and the child. While the process follows clear guidelines, every family’s financial situation is different, and small details can make a big difference. Working with a Bethesda child support lawyer provides insight into how the law applies to our circumstances and helps us plan for the future. At Fait & DiLima, LLP, we focus on guiding families through these important decisions with care and clarity. If we’re ready to discuss how child support might be calculated in our case, now is the time to take the first step toward a balanced and fair resolution.

Child Support Law Glossary

Bethesda, MD child support lawyer services play a central role in securing financial stability for children after a divorce or separation. When parents no longer live together, Maryland law requires a legal structure that ensures both parties contribute to their child’s upbringing. In many cases, parents disagree about how much support is appropriate or how to adjust for changing financial situations. Having accurate information and strong legal representation helps us manage these issues effectively and protect our children’s future.

Below are five key legal terms commonly used in child support cases. Each plays a specific role in the support process and impacts how courts reach fair decisions.

Income Shares Model

The Income Shares Model is the method Maryland courts use to determine the basic child support obligation. This model assumes that children should receive the same proportion of parental income that they would have received if their parents remained together. The court calculates the total combined income of both parents and then uses the state’s guidelines to determine the appropriate amount of child support. That amount is then divided between the parents based on their share of the total income. If one parent earns 70% of the combined income, they would typically be responsible for 70% of the support amount. Adjustments may also be made based on custody arrangements and certain expenses like healthcare or daycare.

Voluntary Impoverishment

Voluntary impoverishment refers to a situation where a parent intentionally reduces their income or avoids employment to lower or avoid child support payments. Courts carefully examine claims of reduced income to determine whether the parent is acting in good faith or trying to shirk financial responsibility. If the court finds that a parent is voluntarily impoverished, it may impute income to them—meaning the court will assign an income value based on their earning capacity rather than their actual earnings. This allows the child support calculation to reflect what the parent could reasonably earn. A Bethesda, MD child support lawyer can help us gather the documentation needed to support or challenge these claims.

Imputed Income

Imputed income is income that the court assigns to a parent who is not earning at their full potential. This often arises in cases involving voluntary impoverishment, underemployment, or inconsistent income. The court may use past employment history, education level, job qualifications, and other evidence to determine how much the parent could be making. Once income is imputed, it is used in the same way as actual income when calculating support. This helps prevent one parent from unfairly shifting the burden to the other by earning less on purpose. Legal guidance is important here, especially when self-employment or irregular income complicates the process.

Modification Of Support Orders

A modification of support orders is a formal request to the court to change the amount of child support previously ordered. Maryland law allows modifications when there is a material change in circumstances. Common reasons include job loss, promotions, changes in custody, or increased expenses related to a child’s medical needs or education. The parent seeking the change must present updated financial documentation and show that the adjustment is warranted. These modifications are not automatic and must be reviewed and approved by the court. We assist clients in preparing the necessary paperwork and presenting a clear case for the requested changes.

Child Support Enforcement

Child support enforcement involves the legal steps taken to collect unpaid child support. When a parent fails to make court-ordered payments, the other parent can request enforcement through mechanisms such as wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, suspension of licenses, or contempt proceedings. These actions are designed to compel compliance while protecting the child’s right to financial support. Courts generally prefer consistent payments and may work with the non-paying parent to set up payment plans, but failure to comply may result in penalties. We guide our clients through this process to help collect what is owed without unnecessary delays.

Each of these terms reflects a different aspect of the legal structure that supports children financially after separation or divorce. Courts strive to make fair decisions, but the outcome often depends on the accuracy of financial records, clarity of arguments, and the ability to respond to contested claims. That’s why having experienced legal representation matters.

At Fait & DiLima, LLP, we assist families in Bethesda, MD with every phase of the child support process—from initial filings to modifications and enforcement actions. We are committed to pursuing outcomes that serve our clients and protect the children involved.

If you need guidance in a child support matter, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a Bethesda, MD child support lawyer.