Child support is not a random number selected by either of the parents.  Child support is calculated based on the combined monthly net income of the parents.  Net income is defined by the Florida Statute.  The statute will give a monthly amount of money that should be put towards the care of the child(ren) born of parents that make that specific amount of monthly net income.  Using the calculations of each parent’s monthly net income and giving credit for certain statute specific contributions regularly made to the child’s care and for substantial timesharing with the child, each parent will be responsible for a certain percentage of the monthly amount to be put towards the child(ren)’s care.  That percentage, translated into dollars and cents, is the child support amount.  If this explanation was confusing to you in the least bit, don’t try to calculate it yourself, please contact a lawyer.

Child support increases, and decreases, are possible.  It is called a modification.  If there is a substantial change of circumstances as supported by the Florida Statute, and a previously entered order for child support, then either parent can file to modify the child support. Common substantial changes include changes in monthly income, changes in timesharing, and changes in employment.  If you think that you may need to modify your current child support order, please contact an attorney as soon as possible.

Child support is for the care of the child - food, housing, electricity, water, clothing and any other essentials.  This can, but does not always, include uniforms, health insurance, extracurricular activities, field trips, etc.