The calculation of child support is based upon the gross income of the parents. If a parent is unemployed or underemployed, then the court may substitute an income figure for that parent.

When determining the amount of child support that should be paid, the court will consider several different factors such as day-care expenses, medical needs of the child, and health insurance costs.

The court uses a basic child support schedule and worksheet to calculate the amount of support that is necessary for the children. However, the court may order an amount of child support that deviates or is different from the amount of child support calculated using the basic child support schedule. A lawyer could assist you in achieving the proper amount of child support that you feel is necessary for your situation.

Child support is paid to the Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA). The CSEA is set up so that parents do not have to arrange to make payments directly to one another. Instead, parents who have a child support obligation will make their payments to CSEA, who distributes the support to the other parent.