Child support in Georgia is addressed in every divorce case that includes a child or children. An experienced family law attorney will know exactly how to pursue the best possible outcome. Discover frequently asked questions about child support in Georgia:
How is child support in Georgia decided?
Georgia follows the Income Shares Model to determine how much child support should be awarded. The Income Shares Model essentially calculates how much money it would take to pay for the child’s needs if the parents were sharing an income. Then, it divides that amount proportionately based on the incomes of the parents.
Can child support in Georgia be modified?
Yes, child support can be modified any time after the original child support agreement was created. However, it’s important to note that a substantial change must have occurred, such as a salary increase or medical needs for the child, for a judge to even consider hearing the petition.
If the judge agrees to change the amount, a child support modification cannot be pursued unless two years has passed since the modification has gone into effect. One exception to this rule is if you lose your job before those two years have passed. However, judges do not look favorably on a parent who attempts to evade child support payments by not keeping a job.
What if my ex refuses to pay child support?
Child support in Georgia is court-ordered. If your ex refuses to pay child support, he or she is essentially breaking the law. Courts take this very seriously, as it negatively affects both the primary caregiver and the child. If your ex refuses to pay child support, he or she may receive consequences such as:
- Jail time
- Wage garnishment
- Suspension of driver’s license
- Denied driver’s license renewal
- Suspension of a business license
If my child comes to live with me, do I still have to pay child support in Georgia?
Yes, you are obligated to continue paying child support until there is a legal modification to the agreement. If your child comes to live with you, immediately seek a modification to the agreement since there has been a child custody change.