Knoxville Child Support Attorney

Supporting Knox County Residents With Child Support Disputes

A divorce that involves a marriage with minor children, often includes the complicated issues of child custody and child support in Tennessee. Determining a fair child support agreement is often one of the most challenging and contentious issues in a divorce, so you are best served to have an experienced team like the Knoxville family law attorneys at Menefee & Brown, P.C. on your side to ensure a positive agreement. These complex issues may seem confusing, but our dedicated legal team in Knoxville keeps you informed as we work through the process.

Can Parents Agree to No Child Support in Tennessee?

The court in Tennessee must follow the Tennessee Child Support Guidelines, which states that no agreements of any kind can dismiss child support payments. Therefore, only a Tennessee court can deviate or modify and support the child support guidelines.

Why You Should Hire a Lawyer for Child Support

If your ex doesn't pay child support, you must enforce a court order through your local child assistance workplace or court system. Family courts will use the child support guidelines to your details and identify the precise number and determine the best interests of the children.

Our Knoxville child support attorneys can help parents with child support problems, consisting of developing, enforcing, and changing child support payments.

How is Child Support Calculated in Knoxville, Tennessee?

TN child support payments are no longer simply percentages of one parent’s income. Tennessee State provides a child support calculator tool that determines how payments should be disbursed.

A number of factors contribute to the calculator figures, including:

• Each parent’s income
• Custody and time each child will spend with each parent
• The amount each parent pays for the support of other children
• Amounts paid for insurance and childcare

This information is utilized and a percentage of the parents’ combined income is ascribed as the amount needed to support the child. This amount is then split based on the child custody schedule, and any necessary child support payments will be determined based on this plan.

The results of the child support calculator are generally accepted by the court without much argument, so it is important to use accurate information.

Can Child Support Agreements Be Modified?

In short, yes. In Tennessee, child support orders can be adjusted in specific situations to reflect changes in the parents' financial circumstances, living situations, or the child's needs. The Tennessee Department of Human Services, as well as the courts, understand that life circumstances can change, and they aim to ensure that child support arrangements remain fair and appropriate.

To seek a change in child support in Tennessee, a parent usually needs to show a notable change in circumstances since the initial child support order was established. Some common reasons for seeking a modification include:

• Change in Income: If either parent experiences a significant increase or decrease in income, this may warrant a review and possible adjustment of the child support amount.
• Change in Custody Arrangement: A modification may be necessary if there is a change in the custody arrangement, such as one parent gaining primary custody of the child.
• Healthcare Needs: An increase in the child's healthcare needs or expenses may justify a modification of the child support order.
• Educational Expenses: As a child grows older, their educational expenses, including tuition and extracurricular activities, may increase, warranting a review of the child support amount.

A voluntary reduction in income by either parent may not necessarily result in a reduction of child support obligations. The court will evaluate the reasons for the income change and might attribute income based on the parent's potential earnings.

To modify a child support order in Tennessee, a parent must file a petition with the court and provide evidence supporting the need for the modification. Consulting with an attorney who is experienced in Tennessee child support laws can be beneficial in navigating the child support modification process and ensuring that your rights and the best interests of your child are protected.

Our Knoxville Child Support Lawyers Can Help

Our Knoxville child support attorneys at Menefee & Brown, P.C., have valuable experience on both sides of this equation and will make sure you secure the best possible child support agreement. For help navigating child support in Knoxville, TN contact us today.