How much is child support in Arizona?
The amount of child support depends on a variety of factors, including the cost of private education, healthcare, childcare, time with the child (child custody and parenting time), and any special needs that the child may have.
In Arizona, child support is determined based on a formula that takes into account the income and financial resources of both parents, as well as the number of children involved. The state uses a child support calculator to determine the appropriate amount of support to be paid. However, this is only a starting point, and there may be additional factors that can influence the final amount of support.
If you’re facing child support issues in Arizona, it’s important to work with an experienced child support attorney who can help you understand your rights and obligations under the law. At Radix Law Firm, our Scottsdale child support attorneys can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your child’s needs are being met. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your child support case.
How is child support calculated in Arizona?
To determine the appropriate amount of child support, the court will calculate each parent’s gross income and then combine them to arrive at a total. The court will then use a formula to determine the percentage of the total income that each parent contributes. This percentage is then used to calculate the amount of child support that should be paid by each parent. Arizona child support guidelines are based on the idea that both parents should contribute to their child’s support in proportion to their income.
For example, if Parent A earns $60,000 per year and Parent B earns $40,000 per year, their combined gross income is $100,000 per year. If the court determines that Parent A should contribute 60% of the total income and Parent B should contribute 40%, then the child support obligation would be divided accordingly. If the total child support obligation is $1,000 per month, then Parent A would be responsible for paying $600 per month, and Parent B would be responsible for paying $400 per month.
How to file for child support in Arizona:
- Gather the necessary information: Before you can file for child support in Arizona, you’ll need to gather some important information. This includes your own personal information, as well as information about the other parent and your child. You’ll need to know the other parent’s full name, address, and social security number, as well as information about your child’s birthdate, social security number, and any special needs they may have.
- Complete the application: Once you have all the necessary information, you can begin completing the child support application. You can find the application on the Arizona Department of Economic Security website or in person at your local child support office.
- Submit the application: After you’ve completed the application, you’ll need to submit it to the appropriate office. You can do this in person, by mail, or online, depending on the office’s policies.If filing for child support as part of a court action, you file a Petition for Establishment of Child Support together with a Proposed Child Support Worksheet.
- Attend the child support hearing: Once your application has been processed (or the Petition is filed and served), you’ll be notified of a hearing date. This hearing will give you and the other parent an opportunity to present your cases and discuss the appropriate amount of child support to be paid.
- Follow up as needed: After the hearing, you may need to provide additional information or documentation to support your case. It’s important to stay in communication with the child support office and respond promptly to any requests they may have.
If you need help navigating the process of filing for child support in Arizona, our Scottsdale child support attorneys can help. Contact us at Radix Law to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist you with your child support case.
What are the consequences for non-payment of child support in Arizona?
- Income withholding: One of the most common consequences of non-payment of child support is income withholding. This means that the child support amount will be deducted directly from the non-paying parent’s paycheck.
- Driver’s license suspension: If a parent falls behind on court ordered child support payments, their driver’s license can be suspended. This can make it difficult to commute to work or handle other daily responsibilities.
- Passport denial: If a parent owes more than $2,500 in child support, their passport application can be denied. This can restrict the non-paying parent’s ability to travel internationally.
- Property liens: In some cases, the state may place a lien on the non-paying parent’s property, such as their home or car, in order to collect past-due child support payments.
- Contempt of court: If a parent fails to make even one child support payment despite a child support order, they may be held in contempt of court. This can result in fines or even jail time.
Schedule a consultation
Dealing with child support issues can be overwhelming, and it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side to help guide you through the process. We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to protect your child’s future.
Contact us at (602) 606-9300 to schedule an initial consultation.
Our office is conveniently located in Kierland Commons in North Scottsdale at:
Radix Law
15205 N Kierland Blvd, Suite 200
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Serving Scottsdale, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Chandler, Mesa, and all of Arizona.
