Making Sure Child Support And Alimony Payments Are Fair

Nearly all couples argue over money in a divorce, including whether one person should pay child and/or spousal support. Few couples, however, truly understand how these types of support are calculated.

To ensure that you are prepared for life after divorce, it is important that you understand how the laws will apply to you. At Silverman, Tokarsky & Forman, L.L.C, our attorneys help clients understand how much support they will pay or receive. Regardless of which side you are on, we know that the amount of support must be fair. You can rely on our advocacy during the divorce process. Call us in Johnstown, Somerset or Windber at 814-792-2412 today.

There Are Statutory Guidelines For Determining Child Support

The Pennsylvania child support guidelines take numerous things into consideration, including the parents’ net incomes and how many children they have. Overnight visits with each parent are also part of the calculations. The court considers other expenses, such as health care costs and insurance for the children, as well.

New child support guidelines went into effect on May 1, 2017. Under the new guidelines, some parents will receive more support from the payer. How much more depends on the income of both parents.

Understanding Alimony And Spousal Support

This can be a confusing and contentious topic in a divorce. In Pennsylvania, it is even more confusing because there are three types of spousal support/alimony:

• Spousal support — The court may award this to one spouse during the separation, but before the divorce is filed.
• Alimony pendente lite (APL) — While the divorce is in progress, the court may award APL.
• Alimony — When the assets are divided and the divorce is final, the court may award longer-term alimony for support and maintenance.

To learn how the law applies to you and your former spouse, ask one of our attorneys to review your case and your finances.

Modifying Support Payments

It is possible to modify child support and alimony. Before you request that the court lower or increase support, however, you should speak with a lawyer. The guidelines may have changed or you may earn more than you did at the time the original orders were finalized. It’s not uncommon for people requesting modifications to find out that the modification may actually cost them more.

Learn More Today

To schedule an appointment, please call 814-792-2412 or complete our intake form.