Illinois Child Support Attorney

After a legal separation or divorce, child support is designed to cover the costs of raising a child (or children) until the age of 18. In the state of Illinois, child support is calculated by using a strict formula that stipulates a percentage of net income based on the number of children between the two parents. Statutory guidelines for child support payments are as follows:

20% of net income for 1 child
28% of net income for 2 children
32% of net income for 3 children
40% of net income for 4 children
45% of net income for 5 children
50% of net income for 6+ children

Typically, the non-custodial parent has to pay child support to the custodial parent because the full-time parent bears the majority of the financial burden for food, shelter, schooling, clothing and other expenses related to child rearing. However, a mutual agreement can be made if both parties agree to pay a variant amount that is more or less than the state’s mandate.

The court can also deviate from state guidelines for child support if a judge deems such action necessary. This decision is usually based on a variety of factors, including the children’s lifestyle prior to the divorce, the needs of the children, costs for private schooling, transportation costs (if the parents do not live in the same area) and the resources and outside financial responsibilities of the non-custodial parent. A windfall to the custodial parent or a loss of employment by the non-custodial parent can also dramatically change a child support arrangement.

Protecting Your Family
Sadly, some people will try to forge W-2 forms or misrepresent their income from self-employment, commissions or bonuses in order to get out of paying child support. Erin Webster O’Sullivan, P.C. is proficient at uncovering fraud and investigating income reports, bank statements and tax forms to discover discrepancies. She will analyze every factor of your case to ensure that you’re being treated fairly and that your children are getting all that they deserve.

If you live in Will County and Grundy County and are struggling with a child support issue, contact Erin Webster O’Sullivan today. She will fight for your case to give you ultimate peace of mind. Call 815-727-2100 or send an email to set up a consultation.