Child Support Attorney in Atlanta
Understanding Georgia Child Support Guidelines
Unlike many states, Georgia uses a specific income shares model to calculate child support. This model estimates the gross income of both parents and assesses how much the parents would spend to support their children as a unit. The court then divides these costs between the parents, so each pays an amount proportional to their individual income levels. If you have questions about your potential child support obligations, connecting with a child support attorney in Atlanta can be an essential first step toward understanding your legal rights and responsibilities under Georgia law.
For example, imagine your gross income is $25,000, and your co-parent’s gross income is $75,000. If the court calculates the monthly cost of supporting your child as $1,000, your co-parent would be responsible for $750, and you would contribute $250.
Contact our trusted child support lawyer in Atlanta at (770) 766-8148 to schedule a confidential consultation.
What Counts as Gross Income for Child Support?
The following are examples of revenue streams that are factored into your gross income assessment in Georgia:
- Wages you earn from your job
- Any commissions you receive from a side business
- Military pension or any other pension you receive
- Any self-employment earnings
- Retirement account payments and disability payments
- Any income earned from investments
In the Atlanta metropolitan area, determining gross income can be influenced by factors unique to our city, such as job opportunities with large corporations, the prevalence of self-employment, and the varying cost of living across neighborhoods. For those who own rental properties or operate a business, details like rental income and allowable business deductions play an important role in the calculation. Comprehensive documentation is critical, as Atlanta’s courts carefully examine each financial disclosure. By working with a child support lawyer in Atlanta who understands both Georgia child support law and the economic realities of the region, you’ll be better equipped to present accurate financial information and achieve a fair outcome.
You may also be able to deduct certain expenses from your gross income. For instance, self-employed individuals can deduct legitimate business expenses from their gross revenue. The Georgia Online Child Support Calculator is a helpful tool provided by the state to help parents estimate what their payments might be under the law. If you need personalized guidance or advocacy, a child support attorney in Atlanta can help you interpret the numbers and prepare your case.
Factors Influencing Child Support in Georgia
Several key factors typically affect child support arrangements in Georgia, including:
- Which parent is the noncustodial parent – In most cases, parents involved in joint custody arrangements may not pay each other child support, unless the court determines it is necessary. However, when one parent has primary custody, the noncustodial parent often pays a greater share since they are not shouldering daily expenses for the child's care.
- How the parents cover benefits such as healthcare – Healthcare and childcare costs are usually divided based on each parent's share of gross income, reflecting a fair allocation that aligns with state guidelines.
- The current circumstances of each parent – If a parent's financial situation changes—such as a job loss or medical emergency—the court may reconsider the support arrangement to ensure the child’s needs continue to be met. Georgia courts look at what each parent can reasonably contribute, with an aim to prevent manipulation or unfair avoidance of financial responsibility.
Enforcement & Modification of Child Support Orders in Atlanta
Once a child support order is issued, it is a legally binding document for both parties. Over time, circumstances may change, making enforcement or modification of existing orders necessary. In Atlanta, when a parent does not comply with a court-ordered child support agreement, the other parent can pursue enforcement action through the Superior Court in their county, such as Fulton or DeKalb County. Enforcement options may include wage garnishment, suspension of driver’s licenses, or even contempt proceedings. At Warner Bates McGinnis & Anthony, our child support lawyers in Atlanta help you navigate enforcement procedures effectively, always seeking to achieve positive results for your family while minimizing conflict and delay. We also provide proactive advice for negotiating modifications if family or financial circumstances require a change in the legal agreement.
If one parent’s financial circumstances change, Georgia law allows them to request a modification of the child support order. In Atlanta, judges consider each parent’s updated financial information, changes in the child’s needs, and unique cost-of-living factors before making a decision. The process generally includes filing updated financial records and, in some cases, attending a hearing. Our firm regularly represents parents seeking or disputing modifications, and our knowledge of Atlanta-area practices is a clear advantage for our clients. We focus on making the process efficient, transparent, and as manageable as possible for families throughout metropolitan Atlanta.
To receive a consultation with Warner Bates McGinnis & Anthony child support lawyers in Atlanta, fill out our contact form online or give us a call at (770) 766-8148.
