Petroske Riezenman & Meyers
Supporting Children after a New York Divorce
Child support can be a blessing or a curse, depending on which party you are and whether the order is being upheld. Custodial parents depend on child support to pay for groceries, rent or mortgage, clothing, and everything else that is required to raise a child. When depended-upon payments are late or simply never come, it can have serious ramifications on the custodial parent and the child. For noncustodial parents, child support can seem like an anchor keeping them underwater that they can never get rid of. Having a child support order that is too much can cause serious hardships for noncustodial parents. Because we represent both sides when it comes to child support, we have the experience and knowledge necessary to help you reach the most beneficial outcome in your Long Island child support case. We encourage you to call one of our Long Island child support lawyers today at the law offices of Petroske Riezenman & Meyers, P.C.
Child Support Basics
Child support reduces the child poverty rate, increases academic achievements, improves cognitive development, and has a positive effect on family relationships. Noncustodial parents who pay child support have an increased involvement in their child lives. To be sure, 5.9 million custodial parents nationwide are the recipients of child support, yet only 40 percent receive the full payment that is owed to their child. Furthermore, 30 percent of recipients receive only partial payments, while 30 percent receive no payments at all, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
How is Child Support Calculated in New York?
Child support is calculated using a simple formula based on a percentage of the noncustodial parent’s gross annual income and the number of children the support is going towards. The calculation is set up as follows:
- 1 Child 17 percent of income
- 2 Children 25 percent of income
- 3 Children 29 percent of income
- 4 Children 31 percent of income
- 5+ Children At least 35 percent of income
For parents with incomes in excess of $143,000 per year, the court may choose to use another method of calculation. In addition, the child must be given medical support in terms of health care and out-of-pocket medical expenses. Both parents may be held responsible for providing medical support, and the child support that the noncustodial parent pays may reflect this cost, according to New York Courts.
A Long Island Child Support Attorney is Here to Help
Whether you are the custodial receiving parent or the noncustodial paying parent, we know just how important this child support decision is to you. Noncustodial parents can be financially crippled if they are asked to pay too much, while the custodial parent and the child both suffer if they do not receive a fair amount. Whether you require assistance modifying an existing order or need help creating a new child support order, an attorney is an essential element to your success. Do not hesitate to contact our Long Island child support lawyers today with the office of Petroske Riezenman & Meyers, P.C. to set up a free consultation.