Child Support Attorney in Reno
Creating Fair Agreements for the Best Interests of Your Children
A parent’s responsibility to their child does not end upon divorce. Nevada law requires parents to continue supporting their child as long as necessary so they can maintain the standard of living they had before the separation. Child support payments are taken from a percentage of a parent’s monthly income before taxes.
Our Reno child support lawyer, Kelli Anne Viloria, has significant experience in these matters, as well as child custody and complex family law matters. We know how to uncover details that affect child support and ensure a fair arrangement is created that protects the best interests of the child. We can also help you file for a modification of an existing arrangement if you feel circumstances have changed.
Are you looking to start the child support process? Call Kelli Anne Viloria today at (775) 476-5642 or contact us online to meet with our Reno child support attorney.
We serve clients in Sparks, Carson City, Incline Village, North Valleys, Sun Valley, Fallon, Fernley, Washoe County, Carson City County, Douglas County, and across northern Nevada.
Understanding How Child Support is Determined in Nevada
Child support is determined by a set of guidelines that take into account the number of children, the income of each parent, and any special needs of the children. These calculations are usually fairly straightforward, but some circumstances can make the process more complex.
Extenuating circumstances in child support arrangements may include:
- A parent is self-employed or under-employed
- A parent is hiding income
- The custodial parent’s financial need
- A parent’s health insurance plan
- Private schooling
- A parent’s financial situation significantly changes
In Nevada, child support ends when a child reaches 18 or until they graduate high school if they are under 19. If you want to change an existing child support arrangement, you will either have to work out an agreement with the other parent or prove to a court that a change in circumstances concerning you, the other parent, or the child justifies an amendment to the arrangement.
Steps to Initiate Your Child Support Process
There are several steps to starting the process of acquiring child support:
- You must first open a case. This can be done in person or by completing forms online through your local child support services website.
- The second step is to locate the parent from whom you seek support, as this will speed up the process.
- If you haven't already, you must establish paternity
- File a case within the court to obtain a court order
- Have the court order enforced
Frequently Asked Questions
What Factors Influence Child Support Modification?
Several factors can influence the modification of a child support arrangement. Changes in income for either parent are one of the primary reasons for requesting a modification. If a parent experiences substantial reductions or increases in salary, the court may consider altering the support agreement to reflect the new circumstances.
Additionally, changes in custody arrangements, such as a shift in the time the child spends with each parent, can also necessitate modifications. Other factors include significant shifts in the child's needs, such as medical expenses or educational requirements, which can warrant an adjustment in the amount of support. Finally, Nevada law allows for a periodic review of child support every three years, which can instigate a re-evaluation if conditions have changed significantly. It is essential to work with a Reno child support attorney to navigate these complexities and present a compelling case in court.
How Does Nevada Legislate Child Support for Shared Custody?
In shared custody arrangements, Nevada calculates child support by considering the income of both parents and the proportion of time each spends with the child. The state employs the "income shares model," which aims to reflect the proportion of parental income and time allocated for the child's care. Each parent's responsibility is calculated by a formula that considers these factors, thereby promoting fairness and transparency in support obligations. The principle guiding shared custody arrangements is to ensure consistency in the child's quality of living, regardless of which parent they are residing with.
Contact Us Today
Child support cases can be stressful and emotionally charged, especially when you are focused on providing stability and security for your child. Having a skilled Reno child support lawyer by your side can make a significant difference in how smoothly the process unfolds and in ensuring that your child’s best interests remain the top priority. From establishing a fair child support order to seeking modifications or enforcement, the right legal guidance can help you avoid costly mistakes and give you peace of mind knowing that your case is being handled with care and experience.
At the Law Office of Kelli Anne Viloria, we are committed to protecting your rights and your child’s best interests every step of the way. Reach out today to get the guidance and support you need.
How Long Must You Pay Child Support in Nevada?
The state requires that financial support be paid until the child turns 18. This can be extended to 19 if the child is still in high school. Additionally, if the child is mentally or physically disabled, the support can be extended indefinitely. Only the court can remove the disability status from the child, which would result in the payments ceasing.
If the child voluntarily files for emancipation, then he or she would not be eligible for child support. Emancipation can be defined as the process where a child under the age of 18 is declared an adult by a judge. A minor in Nevada can petition to the court if the following exist:
- He or she is at least 16 years old
- He or she is a current resident of Nevada
- He or she is married or living separately from the parents
The process of emancipation is not just a legal formality but a significant step towards independence for minors who meet the necessary criteria. It involves the court assessing various factors to determine whether emancipation is in the best interest of the minor. This includes evaluating their ability to support themselves financially and their overall living situation. Given its complexity and potential life-altering consequences, seeking legal counsel during this proceeding is highly advisable to ensure that the minor's rights and future are appropriately safeguarded.
Can a Child Support Case be Closed?
Yes, it is possible to close a case with the Department of Child Support by asking for a voluntary case closure. Keep in mind, not all child support cases can be closed, even if both parents ask for it. If the parent and child are on state assistance, such as Medicaid, the case won't be closed. Closing the case means disallowing the services the Department provides, including finding the noncustodial parent, pursuing late payments, and enforcing spousal support. If you decide to close your case, you will then be responsible for collecting support on your own.
Closing a child support case should not be taken lightly, as it transfers all responsibilities of enforcement and collection to the recipient parent. Parents must evaluate the implications carefully, considering factors such as their capacity to manage support independently and any potential changes in their financial or employment situation. Consultation with a legal professional can provide vital insights into whether closing a case aligns with the family's long-term financial security and the well-being of the child involved.
Contact a Child Support Lawyer Near Me Today
These are sensitive legal issues, and the courts will always make decisions based on what they believe is in the best interests of the children. You will need to keep this in mind as you plan your strategy. Having handled numerous cases like this before, our lawyer can help you demonstrate how your child support plan is the best arrangement for your children.
Contact Kelli Anne Viloria today to schedule a consultation!
How Can Legal Support Assist in Child Support Cases?
Having the right legal support can make a significant difference in child support cases, particularly when navigating the complexities of family law in Reno. An adept legal team not only aids in preparing documentation and understanding legal jargon but also provides strategic guidance tailored to individual circumstances. This support ensures that all relevant factors — such as changes in income, financial needs for the child, and custody arrangements — are presented effectively to advance the parent's position. Furthermore, legal assistance is invaluable during negotiations, helping facilitate fair agreements without unnecessary delays. With the potential for complicated legal hurdles during appeals or modifications, having a legal advocate ensures adherence to Nevada's unique family law processes, enhancing the likelihood of a favorable outcome while minimizing stress.
Understanding the Cost of Living & Its Impact on Child Support
The cost of living is a critical component that courts often consider when determining or modifying child support in Reno. As variances in economic conditions can significantly affect a parent's financial ability, understanding these impacts is vital. Reno's growing economy and its effect on housing, utilities, and healthcare costs must be considered when the support amount is determined. This can be particularly pertinent for parents relocating to Reno or nearby areas, as they may face higher or lower living expenses compared to their previous locality. Comprehensive legal analysis, which evaluates how the cost of living affects each parent's financial capacity, ensures that child support reflects actual needs. With the right guidance, parents can present a compelling case for adjusting support in line with current financial realities, ensuring the child's needs remain adequately met while maintaining financial fairness.