WE RESPOND TO YOUR NEEDS 414-271-1440
Milkwaukee, WI Child Support Attorneys
Child Support Lawyers Assisting Clients Throughout Southeast Wisconsin
Parents are obligated to provide support for their minor children. Typically, custodial parents provide this support by ensuring that their child has food, clothing, and shelter. However, non-custodial parents do not have this same daily obligation. As such, they are often ordered to pay child support to the custodial parent after a divorce or a determination of paternity.
At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, we understand that a child's welfare must be carefully protected. However, we also recognize that, in some instances, the proposed child support amount exceeds what the non-custodial parent can reasonably afford. Further, we know that circumstances change, sometimes without notice, and require a modification to an existing child support order. Our attorneys can effectively represent you and pursue the most favorable outcome, no matter which side of the support order you are on.
How Child Support is Determined in Wisconsin
In the state of Wisconsin, child support is calculated on a case-by-case basis. However, there are some distinct factors often used to determine the amount a supporting parent will pay. These factors typically include:
- The number of shared minor children;
- Each parent's income; and
- Physical placement of the child (visitation).
Once these factors have been considered, the courts generally set a percentage of the supporting parent's gross income as the minimum support amount. This is based upon the number of children shared by the parents and are usually as follows:
- 17 percent for one child;
- 25 percent for two children;
- 29 percent for three children;
- 31 percent for four children; and
- 34 percent for five or more children.
However, the courts may deviate from these guidelines if there are extenuating circumstances, such as special medical needs or a supporting parent with a high income.
Failure to Pay Child Support in Wisconsin
There are several reasons that a supporting parent may fail to pay child support. They may fall into debt, experience a medical emergency, or suffer a job loss. Alternatively, the placement arrangement of the child may change, and a supporting parent may fail to have their child support obligation stopped or reduced.
Regardless of the reason, failure to pay support is considered a criminal offense, and it can result in serious consequences. As such, parents who are unable to pay or have a change in their circumstances should go through the proper legal channels to obtain a modification to their child support order. Our attorneys can assist you with post-divorce modifications and, should your case turn criminal, we can effectively represent you against your charges.
Milwaukee Child Support Attorneys
If you need help pursuing child support, need assistance with modifying an existing order, or are facing criminal charges because of failure to pay, Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP can help. Skilled and experienced, we protect your interests and those of your children. Contact us at 414-271-1440 for a confidential consultation in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Green Bay, Racine, or Shorewood.
