Children are expensive. Add to this a sudden change in income due to a divorce, and many Michigan parents often wonder how they will be able to provide for their children after a divorce. In order to address this situation, the state of Michigan has guidelines in place to direct the courts in determining the appropriate amount of child support that should be paid.
Typically, the custodial parent provides for the day-to-day needs of the child. The non-custodial parent assists with this in the form of child support. The formula that the state uses to calculate the actual amount of child support is actually rather complicated. However, its components take into consideration the basic needs of the child.
In determining the amount of child support, the courts first look at the income of each parent. In addition, the courts will look at the number of children involved, any child care expenses, medical expenses and health insurance costs. Each parent is expected to pay a portion of the child’s medical expenses. This portion is based upon the parent’s income.
Sometimes the parents will come to an agreement regarding child support prior to the matter going before the Michigan courts. The judge will take this agreement under consideration; however, it is not guaranteed that he or she will approve it. Experienced legal counsel can assist in determining the amount of child support that one can expect to receive or pay, depending upon the circumstances. Once the amount of child support has been determined, the judge will issue a Uniform Child Support Order.
Source: statelaws.findlaw.com, “Michigan Child Support Guidelines“, Accessed on March 4, 2017