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Why You Need a Boca Raton Lawyer For Child Custody and Support

Though many people want to save money by going through a divorce without a lawyer by their side, the truth is that it isn’t always the best option for you. This is especially true when there are children involved. You need to be able to watch out for their best interest, which isn’t easy when you are fighting through this difficult time.

That being said, you may also need a lawyer for child custody and support even if your children’s father hasn’t been in the picture for their whole life. If this is true, you need to come up with a custody and support agreement so that you can raise your children however you see fit.

Still not sure that you need one? Here are some reasons why you need to hire a lawyer for child custody and support.

Establish paternity. Many parents require paternity tests before child custody and support are even considered. You are going to need to do this if you decide that you want and deserve to get some help to raise your child.

Coming up with a child support petition (or answering one). If your children’s father isn’t in their life, you may need to come up with a child support petition, which is just a formal written request to help you get the funds that you need to raise your children. If you aren’t in your children’s lives and don’t help to support them, you may get served with a child support petition. You may be required to go to court so you will need someone to help guide you through this process.

Figuring out child custody.  When going through a divorce (or even a break up), it is important that you seek the advice of a lawyer when it comes to figuring out the best child custody agreement. Your own feelings may get in the way, making it hard to figure out what is best for your children. Two neutral parties (each of your lawyers) can help everyone really look at the big picture, which is making sure that your children are going to be alright and well taken care of after your divorce is final.

And child support. There is a complex formula for figuring out how much child support one deserves to get. Financial records will need to be obtained. Then, other factors will need to be taken into consideration, such as how much time a parent has with the children and what the child’s needs are.

Making sure that you are getting paid. It isn’t always over once child support is figured out. Unfortunately, many parents don’t make any effort to pay for their children, even though the courts have ordered them. It doesn’t take long before it adds up. If you aren’t getting the child support that is required, you may need to get the courts involved. Your lawyer will help you with this process.

Re-evaluate child support. Child support usually depends on the income of both parties. If something significant changes, such as job promotion or loss, child support payments may need to be re-evaluated. This could happen multiple times before your children turn eighteen.

Though you may not want to get a lawyer involved, the truth is that it is often necessary. This is true when you are trying to establish paternity so that you can get the child support that you need. You may also need some lawyers to help you come up with a good custody agreement. Too many parents can’t think about what is best for their children so they need a third party to help them see what it’s best. A lawyer will also help you set up a child support agreement and make sure that you are getting paid.

If you are in the process of divorce, child custody, and support, don’t hesitate to contact us today.